Do You Need a Metal Pick for Obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The short answer is yes, you do need a metal pick (or an equivalent tool or creature) to effectively harvest obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved. A stone pickaxe will not work; it simply won’t yield any obsidian when used on the black, smooth rocks where this resource is found. Let’s delve deeper into why and explore the best ways to gather this valuable crafting component.

Why a Metal Pick is Essential

In the world of ARK, obsidian is a critical resource for crafting high-tier technology. Think advanced weaponry, sophisticated structures, and powerful equipment. However, its toughness demands the use of appropriate tools. A metal pickaxe is the bare minimum requirement for players to start acquiring obsidian. Anything less, like a stone pick, will simply break the rock without yielding any of the precious obsidian material.

This isn’t just a matter of time; you won’t receive any obsidian at all if you use the wrong tool. Therefore, crafting a metal pickaxe should be one of your early priorities if you’re planning on advancing in ARK beyond the basic primitive gear.

Beyond the Metal Pick: Alternative Methods for Obsidian Harvesting

While a metal pick is the entry-level tool for harvesting obsidian, there are far more efficient and effective methods to consider once you progress in the game. Here are some of the best alternatives:

Ankylosaurus: The Obsidian Harvesting Machine

The Ankylosaurus is often touted as the best dino for harvesting obsidian. This heavily armored creature excels at gathering resources from nodes, and obsidian is no exception. The Ankylosaurus’ weight and sturdy build allow it to break obsidian rocks quickly, yielding significantly more obsidian than a player using a metal pick. Plus, the Ankylo’s weight reduction for gathered materials makes long trips from mountain tops much more manageable.

Mantis: The Versatile Tool User

A Mantis equipped with a metal pick in its tool slot is another excellent option. This versatile creature can efficiently harvest resources, and when equipped with a pick, becomes a formidable obsidian gatherer. The Mantis is especially useful for players who prefer a more mobile and flexible harvesting solution compared to the Ankylosaurus.

Magmasaur and Phoenix: High-Tier Harvesting Options

For those who have progressed far enough to obtain them, the Magmasaur and Phoenix are also highly effective obsidian gatherers. These creatures possess unique abilities and strengths that allow them to harvest obsidian at rapid rates. The Magmasaur, in particular, is known for its excellent resource gathering efficiency. While more difficult to tame or obtain, their effectiveness makes them worth the investment for high-level players.

Obsidian Pickaxe: A Specialized Tool?

You might also come across the term “Obsidian Pickaxe” in certain contexts or mods of ARK. It is a specific pickaxe, most notably part of the Primitive+ DLC. However, it’s not used to harvest regular obsidian. It’s actually a weapon that requires obsidian to craft. So, don’t get confused, when people talk about the need for a metal pick, they’re talking about the common metal pickaxe that can harvest obsidian. The Obsidian Pickaxe in Primitive+ is a craftable weapon that requires obsidian, wood, and hide.

Where to Find Obsidian in ARK

Obsidian deposits are generally located in caves and on mountains, often appearing as smooth, black rocks. These locations can be treacherous, so come prepared with adequate equipment and maybe a few helpful creatures. The exact locations can vary slightly from map to map, but higher altitudes are a reliable place to start your search.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about harvesting obsidian in ARK, covering various aspects of the process:

1. Can a Stone Pickaxe Harvest Obsidian?

No, a stone pickaxe cannot harvest obsidian in ARK. You will need at least a metal pickaxe.

2. Is Obsidian Rare in ARK?

While not the rarest resource, obsidian is considered a valuable and somewhat rare resource, as it’s crucial for crafting advanced items. It’s typically found in more dangerous locations, making it more challenging to acquire.

3. Can I Use a Cheat Code to Get Obsidian?

Yes, you can use console commands in single-player to obtain obsidian or tame creatures that harvest obsidian. These commands can quickly accelerate progression, but it’s generally advised to play legitimately first for the full survival experience.

4. Which Dino is Best for Obsidian Harvesting?

The Ankylosaurus is considered the best all-around dino for obsidian harvesting, thanks to its efficiency and weight reduction bonus. Other viable options include the Magmasaur, Mantis, and Phoenix.

5. How Much Obsidian Can an Ankylosaurus Collect?

While the amount can vary slightly, an Ankylosaurus typically gathers significantly more obsidian per rock than a player using a metal pickaxe, often double or more. A person might get about 18 obsidian from three nodes, while an Ankylo can get about 16 per node!

6. Does a Doedicurus Harvest Obsidian?

The Doedicurus can gather obsidian but only from specific rocks. The Ankylosaurus and Magmasaur are much better for general obsidian gathering, as they can collect it from any obsidian node.

7. How Do I Tame an Ankylosaurus?

Taming an Ankylosaurus involves using a tranquilizer weapon to knock it out, and then feeding it its preferred food. This process can take some time and patience. Check specific guides for the precise taming methods.

8. Is There an Obsidian Pickaxe in ARK?

Yes, but it is a weapon and is part of the Primitive+ DLC. It’s a tool that requires obsidian to craft, not a tool used to gather regular obsidian.

9. Does a Gacha Harvest Obsidian?

The Gacha can harvest obsidian, but it isn’t as effective as the Ankylosaurus, Magmasaur, or Mantis. However, it can still be useful if you have a Gacha nearby.

10. Can You Craft Tools from Obsidian?

Yes, within certain mods and the Primitive+ DLC, you can craft the Obsidian Pickaxe, which is a tool requiring obsidian. This is different from the standard metal pickaxe used to collect obsidian.

11. Are There Specific Locations for Obsidian on the Island Map?

Yes, obsidian is commonly found in the caves and mountain peaks on the Island map. Look for black, smooth rock deposits.

12. Can you get obsidian without a pickaxe?

No, in ARK: Survival Evolved you always need some type of pickaxe or resource-gathering creature. You cannot harvest obsidian without one of these methods.

13. How does a Metal Pick compare to the Ankylosaurus for Obsidian?

A Metal Pick will gather significantly less obsidian per node and is slower. The Ankylosaurus is much more efficient and should be a priority for any serious obsidian gatherer.

14. Do Higher-Quality Picks Give More Obsidian?

Yes, a better quality metal pick will gather more obsidian per strike. This is often measured by its material; an Ascendant pick will be more effective than a primitive one.

15. Is Obsidian Used to Make Tech Tier Items?

Yes, obsidian is primarily used in crafting many high-tier tech items, structures, and advanced equipment in ARK. It’s essential for progression once you’re beyond the early game.

Conclusion

Ultimately, a metal pickaxe is the starting point for harvesting obsidian in ARK: Survival Evolved, but there are significantly more efficient methods once you progress in the game. Investing in an Ankylosaurus or utilizing other specialized dinos is crucial for obtaining obsidian in large quantities. So, arm yourself with a metal pick at the beginning, and then go hunting for the more efficient harvesting solutions to make the most of this precious resource. Good luck, survivor!