What is Crystal in ARK: Survival Evolved? A Comprehensive Guide

Crystal in ARK: Survival Evolved is a crucial resource used in crafting a wide array of items, ranging from basic tools to advanced technology. It’s essentially the cornerstone for progressing beyond the early game and accessing some of the most powerful and useful items and structures in the game. Think of it as the silicon of the prehistoric world; it’s everywhere once you know where to look, and almost everything depends on it! This resource is identified by its shiny, white appearance, making it relatively easy to spot in its natural habitats.

Where to Find Crystal

Crystal is predominantly found in three key locations: caves, mountain tops, and snowy biomes. Caves often hold rich deposits, though they can be dangerous to navigate due to aggressive creatures. Mountain tops are generally easier to access but may require climbing gear or a flying mount. Snowy biomes can also be fruitful, but be prepared for the harsh cold and potential blizzards. On the Crystal Isles map, you will find crystal in abundance.

Harvesting Crystal

The most effective tool for harvesting crystal is the metal pickaxe. While a stone pickaxe can be used, it’s significantly less efficient and may primarily yield stone instead of crystal. For those looking to automate the process, the Mining Drill reigns supreme. Several creatures, like the Ankylosaurus and Magmasaur, are also adept at crystal gathering, providing a mobile and often safer alternative to manual harvesting.

What Crystal is Used For

Crystal’s versatility is its greatest strength. It’s used in crafting numerous essential items, including:

• Spyglass: For scouting and observing creatures from a safe distance.
• Water Jar: A basic but vital container for storing water.
• Fabricator: A crucial crafting station for creating advanced items.
• Industrial Grill: For cooking large quantities of meat efficiently.
• Industrial Forge: For smelting metal ore into metal ingots at a faster rate.
• Weapon Attachments: Such as scopes and laser pointers for improved weapon accuracy.
• Heavy Miner’s Helmet: Provides light and protection while mining.
• C4 Charge: A powerful explosive for raiding and demolition.

These items represent just a fraction of what crystal unlocks, highlighting its importance in various aspects of the game, from survival to combat and base building.

Best Crystal Gatherers

The best crystal gatherers in ARK are:

1. Mining Drill: The undisputed king of resource gathering.
2. Tek Stryder: A versatile Tek creature capable of gathering a variety of resources efficiently.
3. Metal Pick: A reliable tool for manual harvesting.
4. Mantis: A strong melee fighter that can wield tools, making it a decent gatherer.
5. Ankylosaurus: A classic resource gatherer, particularly effective for metal and crystal.
6. Magmasaur: Immune to lava and capable of smelting metal on its back.
7. Gacha: Can produce crystals, among other resources, through its unique production system.
8. Phoenix: Capable of smelting metal and incinerating enemies.

The choice of gatherer depends on your resources, technology level, and the environment you’re operating in.

FAQs About Crystal in ARK: Survival Evolved

1. What is the best way to farm Crystal in ARK?

The Mining Drill is the most efficient method for farming crystal, followed by the Ankylosaurus with its resource-weight reduction. Strategic placement of a Tek Teleporter near a crystal-rich area can also facilitate faster and safer farming runs.

2. Do crystals respawn in ARK?

Yes, crystals do respawn in ARK. The respawn time varies depending on the server settings and the specific location. Generally, returning to a known crystal spawn location regularly will yield a steady supply.

3. Can I use a Stone Pickaxe to get crystal?

Yes, you can use a Stone Pickaxe, but it is highly inefficient. You’ll primarily get stone, and the yield of crystal will be minimal. A Metal Pickaxe is far superior.

4. What does Fortitude do in ARK?

Fortitude increases your resistance to weather effects (Hypothermia and Hyperthermia), Torpidity, and Disease. It helps you withstand extreme temperatures and the effects of being knocked unconscious.

5. What’s special about Crystal Isles?

Crystal Isles is a visually stunning map known for its vibrant colors, unique biomes, and abundance of crystal. It offers a refreshing and beautiful landscape for players to explore and build in.

6. What are green crystals used for in ARK?

Green crystals are typically associated with elemental creatures and can be used to craft items like armor and saddles that are specifically designed for use with those creatures.

7. What do white crystals do in ARK?

White crystals (the standard crystal) are primarily used in electronics and optics. They are essential for crafting items like the Spyglass, Fabricator, and Industrial Forge.

8. How do you tame a Crystal Wyvern?

Crystal Wyverns are tamed differently from other Wyverns. You need to knock them out and feed them Crystal or Primal Crystal. Primal Crystal is obtained by knocking out other Crystal Wyverns.

9. Do Crystal Wyverns need Wyvern Milk?

No, Crystal Wyverns do not require Wyvern Milk. They are tamed using regular crystal or, preferably, Primal Crystal obtained from other knocked-out Crystal Wyverns.

10. What Dino is good for getting crystal on ARK?

Besides the Mining Drill, the Ankylosaurus is an excellent choice for gathering crystal, thanks to its efficient harvesting and weight reduction abilities. Other options include the Magmasaur and Tek Stryder.

11. How do you clean crystals in ARK?

This question is a bit of a trick! Since ARK is a video game, you don’t physically clean the crystals. However, if you’re referring to real-world crystals, a mild soap and water solution is generally recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals.

12. Is Ankylo or Doedicurus better for crystals?

Ankylosaurus is significantly better for gathering crystal than the Doedicurus. Doedicurus is primarily used for gathering stone.

13. What does obsidian do in ARK?

Obsidian is a resource used in crafting advanced technology, such as electronics and high-tier weapons and armor. It is typically found in caves and on mountains, often near volcanoes.

14. How long does it take for crystals to recharge after harvesting a Crystal Wyvern?

Once you’ve harvested a Crystal Wyvern for Primal Crystal, it will take about an hour for it to “recharge” and allow you to harvest more.

15. How do you tame an Argentavis in ARK?

To tame an Argentavis, you need to knock it out with tranquilizer arrows or darts. Once unconscious, feed it raw meat or prime meat (or kibble for faster taming) and keep its Torpidity high with Narcotics.

Understanding the ins and outs of crystal in ARK: Survival Evolved is key to thriving in this prehistoric world. From crafting essential tools to building advanced structures, this resource is an integral part of the game’s progression. So grab your metal pick, hop on your Ankylosaurus, and start mining!

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