How To Find Crystals In Ark: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Crystals are valuable resources in the popular survival game, Ark: Survival Evolved. They are used for various crafting recipes, including high-level gear, structures, and even advanced technology. However, finding crystals in the vast and dangerous world of Ark can be a daunting task for both new and experienced players. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the most effective methods to locate and collect crystals, ensuring your success in obtaining this precious resource.

Contents

1. The Importance of Crystals in Ark

2. Types of Crystals in Ark

3. Best Locations to Find Crystals

4. Tools and Equipment for Crystal Hunting

5. Crystal-Gathering Methods

6. Tips and Strategies for Efficient Crystal Farming

7. How to Transport Large Quantities of Crystals

8. Frequently Asked Questions

1. The Importance of Crystals in Ark

Before diving into the methods of finding crystals, let’s understand why they are so crucial in Ark: Survival Evolved. Crystals serve as a key ingredient in crafting a variety of essential items and structures. Some of the most notable uses of crystals include:

– Crafting advanced armor and weapons.

– Constructing advanced electrical equipment and technological devices.

– Creating high-level building structures such as generators and teleporters.

Without a doubt, crystals are in high demand for any Ark survivor looking to progress and thrive in this unforgiving world.

2. Types of Crystals in Ark

In Ark: Survival Evolved, there are three different types of crystals:

A. Silica Pearls: Silica Pearls are small, round, shiny white pearls found in the depths of the ocean or in underwater caves. While not technically crystals, they are included in this guide due to their frequent association with the crystal-gathering process. Silica Pearls provide a central component in many crystal-related recipes and are an invaluable resource. They are primarily used for electrical devices and structures.

B. Crystal: Crystals are the primary target for most players searching for this resource. They are found in various geological formations scattered throughout the Ark world, including caves, mountain ranges, and even underground chambers. Crystals can be identified by their sparkling appearance and are used in a wide range of crafting recipes.

C. Element Shard: Element Shards are rare and highly sought-after crystals that provide an even more advanced resource. They are commonly found within the Extinction DLC map or obtained by killing boss monsters. Element Shards play a vital role in crafting extremely powerful gear and structures, making them a prized possession for any experienced Ark player.

3. Best Locations to Find Crystals

Now that you understand the importance and types of crystals in Ark, it’s time to unveil the best locations to find them:

A. Crystal Mountain: Located in the western region of the Ark world, the Crystal Mountain is one of the most famous crystal-rich locations. Ascending the mountain allows access to multiple crystal nodes that provide a substantial amount of crystals. Be cautious of hostile wildlife in this area.

B. Volcano: The volcanic region in Ark contains numerous crystal nodes. However, it is essential to exercise caution due to the high presence of dangerous creatures, such as Rock Elementals and Wyverns.

C. Lower South Cave: This cave in the southeastern region of the map is a reliable source of both crystals and silica pearls. Equipped with the necessary tools and weapons, brave adventurers can gather a significant amount of resources here.

D. Underwater Caves: Deep underwater caves across the Ark world contain large quantities of silica pearls, making them a worthwhile destination for crystal hunters. Keep in mind the need for scuba gear and high-level tames to navigate these treacherous locations.

E. Aberration Map: If you are playing on the Aberration DLC map, several crystal-rich spots can be found. Areas like the Luminescent Reef and Element Falls offer abundant crystals, making them excellent locations for your crystal-gathering endeavors.

4. Tools and Equipment for Crystal Hunting

Before venturing out to find crystals, it is crucial to equip yourself adequately. The following tools and equipment are essential for efficient crystal hunting:

A. Metal Pickaxe: The metal pickaxe is the ideal tool for gathering crystals as it provides a higher yield per resource node. Using a lower-tier tool may still yield crystals, but the amount collected will be significantly lower.

B. Metal Hatchet (Optional): While not essential, a metal hatchet can be useful for gathering extra silica pearls found alongside crystals in certain locations like underwater caves.

C. Climbing Picks: Climbing picks are invaluable for reaching crystal-rich areas that may be situated on steep cliffs and mountainsides. Additionally, they are helpful for navigating caves and other vertically oriented structures.

D. Scuba Gear (For Underwater Gathering): If your crystal hunt takes you into underwater caves or ocean depths, scuba gear is essential. It allows for extended periods underwater, facilitating the collection of silica pearls and crystals.

E. High-Level Tames (For Advanced Locations): Certain crystal-rich areas, like the volcanic region, may house dangerous creatures. To ensure your safety during gathering expeditions, take along high-level tamed dinosaurs capable of defending themselves.

5. Crystal-Gathering Methods

Now that you are well-equipped, let’s explore the different methods of gathering crystals:

A. Surface Gathering: Crystals can occasionally be found on the ground’s surface, especially in areas like the Crystal Mountain. Simply collect them by approaching and interacting with them.

B. Mining Resource Nodes: The most common way to gather crystals is by mining resource nodes specifically found in crystal-rich regions. Use your metal pickaxe to extract crystals from these nodes. Be sure to strike only the sparkling crystals, as other non-sparkling rocks will yield different resources.

C. Underwater Gathering: To collect silica pearls or crystals from underwater caves, don your scuba gear and dive into the depths. Use your metal pickaxe or metal hatchet to harvest both silica pearls and crystals found on the cave walls or on the ocean floor.

6. Tips and Strategies for Efficient Crystal Farming

To maximize your crystal farming efficiency, consider implementing the following tips and strategies:

A. Use a Taming Pen: Constructing a taming pen near a crystal-rich location can provide both safety and convenience. Keep your tamed creatures safe within the pen while you gather resources in the vicinity.

B. Plan Gathering Trips: Before embarking on a gathering trip, ensure you have the necessary tools, equipment, and taming creatures to maximize your efficiency. Plan your routes to avoid unnecessary detours or missed resource nodes.

C. Use an Ankylosaurus: If the primary purpose of your gathering trip is to collect crystals, consider using an Ankylosaurus. These tamed creatures possess increased gathering efficiency, yielding more crystals per swing.

D. Utilize Mining Drills: Advanced tools like mining drills can be utilized to gather crystals at a faster rate. Upgrade your tools as you progress to streamline the gathering process.

E. Explore Diverse Locations: While certain areas may be well-known for their crystal abundance, it is beneficial to explore lesser-known locations. This allows you to avoid competition and find unmined crystal nodes.

7. How to Transport Large Quantities Crystal

Once you have obtained a large quantity of crystals, you may wonder how to transport them back to your base. Here are two efficient methods for transportation:

A. Dinosaur Caravan: Utilize a group of high-weight-capacity tames, such as Brontosaurus or Paracers, to carry your crystal load. Use platform saddles or containers to increase their inventory capacity, allowing for the transportation of a substantial amount of crystals.

B. Cryopods: If you have access to cryopods, transfer the gathered crystals into these compact storage devices. Cryopods are particularly useful for saving inventory space during transportation. When released, the crystals will retain their quantity, making this method highly efficient.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I find crystals on any Ark map?

A1: Yes, crystals can be found on all Ark maps, but the density and locations may vary. Some maps, like Aberration and Extinction, have unique crystal-rich areas.

Q2: Do I need Scuba Gear to gather crystals in underwater caves?

A2: Yes, scuba gear is highly recommended for underwater cave exploration. Oxygen tanks and a scuba mask will allow extended periods underwater, enabling efficient gathering of silica pearls and crystals.

Q3: Can I use explosives to gather crystals?

A3: While explosives can destroy rocks, they do not yield crystals. The only way to collect crystals is from resource nodes using a suitable tool, such as a metal pickaxe.

Q4: Are crystals found inside caves or only on the surface?

A4: Crystals are commonly found inside caves, particularly in their deeper sections. However, crystal-rich areas like the Crystal Mountain offer crystals on the surface as well.

Closing Thoughts

Successfully finding and collecting crystals in Ark: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, adequate equipment, and a solid understanding of the best locations. By following the methods and strategies outlined in this guide, you will become a skilled crystal hunter, able to gather this valuable resource efficiently. Remember to stay vigilant and adapt your approach based on the specific map you are playing on. With perseverance and knowledge, you will soon have an abundance of crystals to fuel your progression and dominate the Ark world.