What are the best locations to farm oil on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming oil on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial task for mid to late-game progression, as oil is a key resource used in crafting advanced items like gasoline, polymer, and various industrial structures. Valguero offers several locations where oil can be gathered efficiently, but the best spots depend on your playstyle, whether you are solo or in a tribe, and your access to tamed creatures. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm oil effectively on Valguero.

One of the most reliable methods for farming oil on Valguero is by harvesting oil nodes. These nodes are found in specific areas of the map, primarily in the Snow Biome and the Aberration Trench. The Snow Biome, located in the northwest part of the map, is a cold and dangerous area filled with predators like direwolves, yutyrannus, and sabertooths. However, it is rich in oil nodes, which can be harvested using a pickaxe, metal hatchet, or a tamed creature like an Ankylosaurus. The Aberration Trench, located in the southwest, is another excellent location for oil farming. This area is filled with oil nodes and is less hostile than the Snow Biome, but it still has its dangers, such as ravagers and nameless.

To farm oil efficiently, you will need to prepare adequately. If you are venturing into the Snow Biome, ensure you have cold-weather gear like fur armor or a high-quality set of hide armor with good insulation. Bring a strong tamed creature for protection, such as a Rex, Spino, or even a pack of direwolves. For the Aberration Trench, bring a light source like a torch or a glow pet, as the area is dark and can spawn nameless if you are not careful. A strong mount like a Carnotaurus or a pack of raptors can help you deal with the local threats.

When farming oil nodes, using an Ankylosaurus is highly recommended. The Ankylosaurus has a special ability that allows it to gather more resources from nodes, including oil. If you do not have an Ankylosaurus, a metal pickaxe or hatchet will work, but the yield will be lower. Once you have gathered the oil, store it in a preserving bin or refrigerator to prevent it from spoiling, as oil has a relatively short spoil timer.

Another method for obtaining oil on Valguero is by hunting basilosaurus in the ocean. Basilosaurus are passive creatures that can be found in the deep waters of Valguero, particularly around the edges of the map. Killing a basilosaurus will yield a significant amount of oil and prime fish meat. However, this method requires preparation, as the ocean is home to dangerous creatures like megalodons and tusoteuthis. Bring a strong water mount like a mosa or a basilosaurus of your own to safely hunt these creatures.

For tribes, setting up an oil pump in the Snow Biome or the Aberration Trench can be a game-changer. Oil pumps are industrial structures that automatically extract oil from oil veins. To use an oil pump, you will need to locate an oil vein, which appears as a black patch on the ground. Place the oil pump on top of the vein, and it will slowly generate oil over time. This method is highly efficient but requires a significant investment in resources and time to set up. Tribes can also assign members to guard the oil pump, as it is a valuable target for raiders in PvP servers.

Common mistakes to avoid when farming oil include venturing into dangerous areas unprepared, not bringing enough storage for the oil, and forgetting to protect your tames from local predators. Always scout the area before committing to farming, and ensure you have a safe escape route in case things go wrong. Additionally, avoid overloading your inventory with oil, as it is heavy and can slow you down, making you an easy target for predators or enemy players.

Advanced techniques for oil farming include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to transport an Ankylosaurus to oil-rich areas. This allows you to gather oil quickly and safely, as the Quetzal can hover above dangerous creatures while the Ankylosaurus harvests the nodes. Another advanced strategy is to build a small outpost near oil-rich areas, complete with storage, beds, and defensive structures. This allows you to farm oil more efficiently and provides a safe haven in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, farming oil on Valguero requires careful planning and preparation, but it is a rewarding task that will significantly aid your progression in ARK: Survival Evolved. Whether you are solo or in a tribe, using the right tools, tames, and strategies will ensure you gather oil efficiently and safely. Always be mindful of the dangers in oil-rich areas, and take steps to protect yourself and your resources. With these tips and strategies, you will be well-equipped to dominate the oil game on Valguero.