Ark Ascended Aberration Resource Map
Exploring Aberration in ARK: Survival Ascended can feel like navigating an alien underworld, but a detailed resource map makes it easier to hunt down essential materials like Element Ore, Crystal, Metal, and Rare Gems. A well-prepared survivor uses this knowledge to build stronger gear, tame powerful creatures, and establish thriving bases even in hostile environments. Understanding the layout and resource nodes is critical for progression, especially given Aberration’s unique biomes and dangers.
Understanding Aberration’s Zones
The map is divided into three vertical zones each with specific resources and risks:
- Fertile Zone: The uppermost layer featuring mushroom forests, basic resources, and moderate threats.
- Bioluminescent Zone: The mid-level tunnel system with glowing flora, mid-tier resources (Crystal, Metal, Gems), and dinosaurs like Karkinos and Spinos.
- Element Zone: The deepest, most dangerous area. It houses Element Ore, Rich Metal, high-tier Gems, and predators like Rock Drakes and Seekers.
Knowledge of these zones and knowing where resources cluster is essential for survival and efficient farming.
Key Resources and Their Locations
Element Ore
Arising only in Element Zones with heavy radiation and peril, Element Ore is vital for late-game tech. Surface miners must wear Hazmat suits. Expect to collect around 50100 units per vein.
Metal and Rich Metal
Metal deposits appear throughout the Bioluminescent and Element zones, while Rich Metal cobalt-grade veins concentrate in the latter. These resources are crucial for upgraded equipment.
Crystal and Silica Pearls
Found in Bioluminescent tunnels, especially near water bodies. They’re commonly used in crafting electronics, ammunition, and building materials.
Gems (Blue, Green, Red)
Mid-tier gems are located in both Bioluminescent and Element areas, with higher-value Blue and Green in deeper zones. These support advanced gear upgrades and tech crafting.
Oil, Polymer, and Gas Veins
Gas Balls and Gas Veins cluster in the Bioluminescent Zone, enabling creation of Gas Mask and element-lamp fuel. Polymer can be harvested from glowing fungal wood across zones, especially useful for building bases.
Using the Resource Map Tool
Interactive maps are available on official and community sources like Ark Wiki and ARK Unity. These allow players to toggle resource icons, import custom markers, and plan routes. Identifying resource clusters near Charge Nodes is particularly useful for building secure, resource-rich bases.
Efficient Gathering Strategies
- Plan Zone-Based Runs: Focus on one resource per expedition late zones for Element and Rich Metals, mid-zones for Crystal and basic Metal.
- Scout with Flyers: Use Rock Drakes, Glider suits, and climbing picks to avoid dangerous paths.
- Protect Against Radiation: Hazmat gear is essential in Element zones during daylight; night runs are also safer.
- Secure Gas Veins: Reserve crafting Gas Masks and Charge Light, which repel Nameless nocturnal predators.
Integrate Taming and Base Building
Pair resource gathering with creature taming. Bring Ravagers for light and early protection, Rock Drakes for mobility, and Roll Rats to carry and harvest resources. Utilize Charge Nodes as safe zones to repel hostile creatures and establish crafting bases.
Community Tips from Reddit
>Although some nodes show as gas veins, those are actually power charge nodes especially in the 36 55 area. Reddit user about accuracy of resource maps
This insight shows community-driven accuracy improving resource planning, ensuring players can rely on maps for reliable node identification.
Why a Resource Map Matters
- Optimizes Farming Runs: Spend less time scavenging and more time collecting key materials.
- Reduces Risk: Planning avoids wandering into high-danger zones unprepared.
- Boosts Progress: Access to Element and Rich Metal speeds up crafting of high-end gear and progression.
- Improves Base Planning: Know where to place bases near resources and Charge Nodes for strategic advantage.
A comprehensive Aberration resource map is not just a convenience it’s essential for survival and success in the underground expanses of ARK Ascended. By knowing exactly where Element, Metal, Crystal, Gems, Gas, and Polymer are located, you minimize risk and maximize productivity. Use community maps alongside in-game exploration, and you’ll build powerful gear, tame advanced creatures, and secure vital resources faster than ever. Whether solo or in a tribe, such knowledge is the key to mastering Aberration’s challenges.