ARK: Survival Evolved, a popular survival game, challenges players to thrive in a hostile environment filled with dinosaurs, other survivors, and scarce resources. Among these resources, oil is crucial for advanced crafting, including the production of gasoline, which powers various items and vehicles in the game. However, finding oil can be a daunting task, especially for new players. This article aims to guide players through the process of obtaining oil in ARK, highlighting the best methods, locations, and strategies.
Introduction to Oil in ARK
Oil is a vital resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, used in crafting and fueling various items. It is particularly essential for producing gasoline, which is necessary for operating generators, fabricators, and certain vehicles like the motorboat. Given its importance, understanding where and how to obtain oil is crucial for advancing in the game.
Oil Sources
There are several ways to obtain oil in ARK, each with its pros and cons. Players can collect oil from underwater oil nodes, from beehives (in the form of bee hive products which can be converted into oil), or by killing certain creatures for their bodies which contain oil.
Underwater Oil Nodes
One of the most common methods of obtaining oil is by collecting it from underwater oil nodes. These nodes can be found in various locations across the maps of ARK, typically in deeper waters. To harvest oil from these nodes, players will need a Pipelining system, which includes an Oil Pump, Pipes, and a Tank to store the collected oil. Setting up a pipelining system requires some planning and resources but can provide a steady supply of oil.
Killing Oil-Rich Creatures
Certain creatures in the game, when killed and harvested, can yield oil. The Chalk Golem, for instance, is known to drop a considerable amount of oil upon death. Other creatures like the Angler can also provide oil, albeit in smaller quantities. This method is particularly useful when players are already engaging in combat activities or need a quick oil fix.
Beehives
While not as direct a source as underwater nodes or creature harvesting, beehives can provide a unique way to obtain oil. By collecting honey from beehives and then converting it into condensed honey and further processing it, players can produce oil. This method is less efficient than directly harvesting oil but can be a good secondary source, especially for players who are already involved in apiculture for other reasons.
Best Practices for Oil Collection
To maximize oil collection efficiency, players should consider several strategies:
- Map Knowledge: Understanding the map and knowing the locations of underwater oil nodes, creature spawns, and beehives is essential. Each map in ARK has its unique geography and resource distribution.
- Equipment: Investing in the right equipment, such as a high-quality pick for breaking nodes more efficiently or good armor and weapons for creature farming, can significantly impact oil collection rates.
- Safety: Especially when farming creatures or exploring underwater, safety should be a top priority. Using mounts or building a secure base near oil collection areas can help mitigate risks.
Strategic Location Selection
Choosing the right location for oil collection can make a significant difference. For underwater nodes, selecting areas with high node density and accessibility is key. For creature farming, understanding spawn patterns and selecting locations with a high concentration of the desired creatures can optimize oil yield.
Community and Coordination
In multiplayer scenarios, coordinating with other players can greatly enhance oil collection. By working together, players can secure areas, share resources, and specialize in different aspects of oil production, leading to a more efficient and safer experience.
Conclusion
Obtaining oil in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of knowledge, strategy, and execution. By understanding the various sources of oil, employing the best practices for collection, and leveraging community resources, players can secure a steady supply of this vital resource. As players progress through the game, mastering oil collection will become increasingly important for advancing their technology and capabilities, ultimately contributing to their survival and success in the ARK universe. Whether through the meticulous planning of underwater pipelining systems, the bravery of creature farming, or the innovation of alternative methods like beehive products, the pursuit of oil is an engaging and rewarding aspect of the ARK experience.
What is oil used for in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Oil is a crucial resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for various purposes such as fueling the Fabricator, which is essential for crafting advanced items and equipment. Additionally, oil is required for powering certain structures, like the Industrial Grinder and the Refining Forge, which are necessary for processing resources and crafting high-end items. Without oil, players would not be able to progress efficiently through the game, making it a vital component of their survival strategy.
The use of oil extends beyond just fueling structures, as it is also a key ingredient in the production of various items, such as plastics and explosives. Players can also use oil to create advanced ammunition, which is essential for taking down tougher creatures and defending against hostile players. Furthermore, oil is used in the creation of certain traps and defensive structures, which can help protect players’ bases from raids and wild creatures. Overall, the versatility of oil makes it an indispensable resource in the world of ARK: Survival Evolved.
Where can I find oil in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Oil can be found in various locations throughout the ARK: Survival Evolved map, including both land and sea. One of the most common ways to obtain oil is by harvesting it from oil deposits, which can be found in the ocean floor or in certain caves. Players can use a Pipeworks Drill or an Oil Pump to extract oil from these deposits. Additionally, oil can be obtained by killing and harvesting certain creatures, such as the Oil Jug Bug or the Squid, which have a chance to drop oil when killed.
The quantity and quality of oil deposits can vary greatly depending on the location and the method of extraction. For example, oil deposits found in the deeper parts of the ocean may yield more oil than those found in shallower waters. Similarly, using a pipeworks drill to extract oil from a deposit may yield more oil than using an oil pump. Players can also use their knowledge of the map and the game’s mechanics to optimize their oil harvesting strategy, such as by building oil pumps in areas with high oil deposits or by creating a network of pipes to transport oil from distant deposits to their base.
How do I extract oil from the ocean floor in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Extracting oil from the ocean floor in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a few specific pieces of equipment, including a Pipeworks Drill or an Oil Pump, as well as a way to power them, such as a generator or a battery. Players must first build the drill or pump and then place it over an oil deposit, which can be identified by the oil droplet symbol on the map. Once the drill or pump is in place, players can activate it and begin extracting oil from the deposit. The amount of oil extracted will depend on the quality of the deposit and the efficiency of the extraction method.
It’s worth noting that extracting oil from the ocean floor can be a complex and challenging process, especially for new players. The ocean floor can be a hazardous environment, with many dangers lurking in the depths, such as powerful sea creatures and underwater caves. Additionally, players must be careful not to over-extract oil from a deposit, as this can cause it to dry up and become useless. By carefully managing their oil extraction and using the right equipment, players can efficiently harvest oil from the ocean floor and use it to fuel their progress in the game.
Can I refine oil in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Yes, players can refine oil in ARK: Survival Evolved using a Refining Forge or an Industrial Forge. Refining oil is an essential step in the process of using it to craft advanced items, as it converts the raw oil into a more usable form. The refining process involves placing the oil in the forge and waiting for it to be converted into gasoline, which can then be used to fuel the Fabricator or other structures. The refining process can take some time, depending on the amount of oil being refined and the quality of the forge.
Refining oil is a critical step in the oil harvesting process, as it allows players to convert the raw oil into a more useful form. Without refining, players would not be able to use the oil to craft advanced items or fuel certain structures, making it a vital part of their survival strategy. Players can also use their refined oil to trade with other players or to craft specialized items, such as advanced ammunition or explosives. By refining their oil, players can unlock new possibilities and further progress in the game.
How do I store oil in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Storing oil in ARK: Survival Evolved is an important consideration, as it can be a valuable resource that players want to keep safe. Players can store oil in various containers, such as the Industrial Storage or the Vault, which can be built and placed in their base. These containers have a limited capacity, so players must be careful not to overfill them, as this can cause the oil to spill and become wasted. Players can also use pipes and pumps to transport oil from one container to another, making it easier to manage their oil storage.
In addition to using containers, players can also use other methods to store oil, such as building an oil tank or a fuel tank. These structures can hold large quantities of oil and are often used by players to store excess oil that they have harvested. By carefully managing their oil storage, players can ensure that they have a steady supply of this vital resource, which can be used to fuel their progress in the game. Players must also be careful to protect their oil storage from raids and other threats, as losing their oil supply can be a significant setback.
Can I use oil to power my base in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Yes, players can use oil to power their base in ARK: Survival Evolved. Oil is a common fuel source used to power various structures, such as the Fabricator, the Industrial Grinder, and the Refining Forge. By using oil to power these structures, players can craft advanced items, refine resources, and perform other essential functions. Players can also use oil to power their base’s defenses, such as turrets and traps, which can help protect against hostile players and wild creatures.
To use oil to power their base, players must first build a generator or a fuel tank, which can be fueled with oil. The generator or fuel tank can then be connected to the structures that need power, such as the Fabricator or the Industrial Grinder. By using oil to power their base, players can create a self-sustaining ecosystem that can support their survival and progression in the game. However, players must be careful to manage their oil supply, as running out of oil can cause their base to shut down, leaving them vulnerable to attack.