As you progress through ARK Survival Ascended, gathering crucial resources is vital for survival. In the late game, accessing TEK weaponry and gear makes Element the most challenging resource to obtain.
This rare resource powers advanced equipment in the game, and understanding how to locate it in the end game is imperative. This guide will provide a simple method for farming Element in ARK Survival Ascended, ensuring you can overcome this resource challenge. Let's jump right in without further delay.
How To Farm Element in ARK Survival Ascended
Currently, the sole method to obtain Element in ARK Survival Ascended is by defeating one of the three island Guardians or bosses: the Broodmother, the Megapithecus, and the Dragon. The amount of Element you receive as a reward depends on the level at which you engage them (Gamma, Beta, or Alpha). For a visual representation of this, refer to the table below.
Gamma | Beta | Alpha | |
Broodmother | 20 Element | 56 Element | 148 Element |
Megapithecus | 40 Element | 110 Element | 220 Element |
Dragon | 80 Element | 220 Element | 440 Element |
As depicted, the most efficient way to acquire Element is by challenging the Alpha versions of the bosses. We have detailed the optimal strategies for defeating each of these bosses in our Broodmother, Megapithecus, and Dragon group boss guides, as well as a guide specifically tailored for players who are brave enough to take on the Broodmother, Megapithecus, and Dragon solo.
Crucial to note is that the Dragon boss yields the most Element, making it the premier method for farming Element when faced in its Alpha variant. While the artifact requirements can be challenging to obtain, and the fight itself is particularly formidable, attempting it on official servers may pose additional challenges due to potential lag interference.
If you are daring enough to take on the challenge solo or in a group, the method outlined in our solo guide for the Dragon proves effective. Ensure you have the necessary consumables to mitigate fire and heat damage, along with a tamed Megaloceros for mobility and a potent sword for dealing damage.
In the arena, employ the same strategy as outlined in the solo guide—target the Dragon's feet when it lands to trick it into staying grounded while you inflict damage. Repeat this process until the Dragon is defeated.
Consider taking on the Dragon as a group, with other players handling the flying mobs spawned by the Dragon or collectively waiting for it to land and unleashing attacks from beneath, expediting its demise. Be cautious to prevent any tames from attacking the Dragon, as it will usually take flight as soon as damage is inflicted by your tames.
Upon the Dragon's defeat, you can claim your reward, an impressive 440 Element, ample for powering TEK armor for the ultimate boss, the Overseer, or for engaging other players in PvP.
Though it's a formidable encounter, with luck and strategic planning, you should be able to succeed with minimal attempts. All credit goes to YouTuber Teachers Game Too for their input in detailing the solo Dragon method, and if you want to see this in action, be sure to check out their full video below.