What are the best locations to farm obsidian on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming obsidian on Scorched Earth in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a good understanding of the map's layout and the mechanics of resource gathering. Obsidian is a crucial resource used for crafting advanced items like polymer, electronics, and certain structures. On Scorched Earth, obsidian is primarily found in mountainous regions and specific caves, making it a valuable but sometimes challenging resource to collect. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you farm obsidian efficiently.

First, you need to know where to find obsidian on Scorched Earth. The best locations are in the high-altitude areas, particularly around the mountains in the northern and central parts of the map. The most notable spots include the mountains near the Green Obelisk and the rocky outcrops in the central desert. Obsidian nodes are dark, shiny rocks that stand out from the surrounding terrain. They are often found alongside metal nodes, so keep an eye out for clusters of rocks in these areas.

To farm obsidian effectively, youÔÇÖll need the right tools and dinosaurs. An Ankylosaurus is the best dinosaur for harvesting obsidian due to its high gathering efficiency. If you donÔÇÖt have an Ankylosaurus, a Metal Pick is the next best option, though it will yield less obsidian per node. Before heading out, make sure your tools or dinosaurs are in good condition and that you have enough inventory space to carry the obsidian. Obsidian is heavy, so consider bringing a weight-reducing dinosaur like a Argentavis or a Mammoth to help transport it back to your base.

When farming obsidian, itÔÇÖs important to be prepared for the harsh environment of Scorched Earth. The heat can be deadly, so bring plenty of water, desert clothing, and possibly a tent or shelter to protect yourself from sandstorms. Additionally, the mountainous areas where obsidian is found are often populated by dangerous creatures like Wyverns, Rock Elementals, and Carnotaurus. Bring a strong mount or tamed creature for protection, and consider bringing a ranged weapon like a crossbow or rifle to deal with threats from a distance.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough resources to sustain themselves during long farming trips. Always pack extra food, water, and tools, as well as materials to repair your equipment if needed. Another mistake is overloading your inventory with obsidian, which can slow you down and make you vulnerable to attacks. Use weight-reducing dinosaurs or make multiple trips to avoid this issue.

For advanced players, optimizing your farming route can save time and increase efficiency. Plan a path that takes you through multiple obsidian-rich areas, and consider setting up small outposts or storage containers along the way to store your resources. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from threats. Solo players should focus on staying mobile and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Resource requirements for obsidian farming include a Metal Pick or Ankylosaurus, a strong mount for protection, and plenty of water and food. You may also want to bring a Bed or Sleeping Bag to set a respawn point in case of emergencies. If youÔÇÖre farming in a tribe, consider assigning roles to each member, such as one person gathering obsidian while others provide protection or transport.

In specific scenarios, such as farming near the Green Obelisk, youÔÇÖll need to be extra cautious due to the presence of Wyverns. These creatures are highly aggressive and can easily kill unprepared players. Use high ground or natural barriers to avoid their attacks, and consider using a fast mount like a Raptor or Sabertooth to escape if necessary. In the central desert, watch out for Rock Elementals, which can be difficult to defeat without strong weapons or tames.

In conclusion, farming obsidian on Scorched Earth requires careful planning, the right tools and dinosaurs, and a good understanding of the mapÔÇÖs dangers. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently gather obsidian and use it to craft advanced items and structures. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and resource management to make the most of your farming trips.