Where can I find the artifact of the Strong on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Strong is one of the key artifacts in ARK: Survival Evolved, and it is located on the Valguero map. This artifact is essential for summoning the boss fights, so knowing how to obtain it is crucial for progression. Below is a detailed guide on how to find and retrieve the Artifact of the Strong on Valguero, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

To begin, the Artifact of the Strong is located in the Aberration Cave, which is one of the more challenging caves on the Valguero map. This cave is situated in the southwestern part of the map, near the coordinates 20.5 latitude and 70.5 longitude. The entrance is marked by a large, glowing blue crystal structure, making it relatively easy to spot. However, the cave itself is filled with dangerous creatures, environmental hazards, and tight spaces, so preparation is key.

Before entering the cave, you will need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong mount that can handle the cave's challenges. Recommended creatures include the Megalosaurus, which is well-suited for the dark, confined spaces of the cave, or the Rock Drake, which can climb walls and avoid many of the ground-based threats. If you do not have access to these creatures, a high-level Carnotaurus or Sabertooth can also work, though they may struggle with some of the cave's more difficult sections.

In terms of equipment, bring a good set of armor, preferably flak or better, to protect against the cave's hostile inhabitants. A crossbow or longneck rifle with plenty of ammo is essential for dealing with creatures from a distance. Additionally, bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. Grappling hooks can be useful for navigating tricky terrain, and a few parachutes might save you from a fatal fall.

Once inside the cave, you will encounter a variety of dangerous creatures, including Ravagers, Karkinos, and Nameless. These creatures are aggressive and can quickly overwhelm an unprepared player. Use your mount to fight them off, and try to avoid engaging multiple enemies at once. The cave is also filled with radiation, so wearing a full set of Hazard Suit Armor or carrying a few Hazard Suit pieces is highly recommended to avoid taking radiation damage.

The path to the artifact is not straightforward, and you will need to navigate through narrow passages, climb ledges, and cross chasms. Pay close attention to your surroundings, as the cave is dark and easy to get lost in. Using a light source, such as a torch or a shoulder-mounted light pet like the Bulbdog, can help you see better and avoid falling into traps.

As you progress deeper into the cave, you will eventually reach a large chamber with a glowing blue crystal in the center. This is where the Artifact of the Strong is located. Be cautious, as this area is often guarded by powerful creatures. Clear out any threats before approaching the artifact. Once the area is safe, interact with the artifact to add it to your inventory.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's difficulty. The Aberration Cave is one of the most challenging caves on Valguero, and entering without proper preparation can lead to quick death. Always ensure you have a strong mount, good armor, and plenty of supplies before attempting to retrieve the artifact.

For advanced players, consider bringing a small team or tribe to help clear the cave more efficiently. Coordinating with your tribe members can make the journey easier, as you can divide tasks such as fighting off enemies, navigating the cave, and carrying supplies. Additionally, using a Cryopod to bring in a second mount as backup can be a lifesaver if your primary mount falls in battle.

In conclusion, retrieving the Artifact of the Strong on Valguero requires careful preparation, a strong mount, and a good understanding of the cave's layout. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully obtain the artifact and progress further in the game. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, the key to success is preparation and caution. Good luck, and may your journey through the Aberration Cave be a successful one.