Navigating the treacherous terrain of The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved requires survivors to venture deep into hazardous caves to claim powerful artifacts. These ancient relics are essential keys required to summon the island's formidable guardians at the obelisks. Understanding where each artifact is hidden and preparing proper gear will ensure your expeditions are successful rather than fatal.
Uncovering the Surface and Land Cave Artifacts
Several artifacts reside within land-based caves scattered across southern and central regions of the island. The Artifact of the Hunter is found in the Lower South Cave, serving as an accessible starting point for early-game explorers. Navigating these subterranean tunnels requires light source tools and weapons to ward off dense populations of dangerous fauna.
As you venture further inland, caves like the Central Cave house the Artifact of the Clever, requiring careful footwork around deep chasms. Meanwhile, the Northwest Cave contains the Artifact of the Skylord, which demands careful maneuvering through narrow ledge paths. Preparing grappling hooks and stamina consumables helps guarantee safe passage through these claustrophobic environments.
Exploring the Northern and Snow Biome Caverns
Heading toward the northern snow biome introduces freezing environmental conditions alongside high-level creature spawns. The Artifact of the Strong is concealed deep within the Snow Cave, where extreme cold can rapidly deplete a survivor's health without proper fur armor. Bringing high-tier medical brews and warm mounts is crucial for surviving this grueling descent.
Nearby, the Artifact of the Devourer sits at the bottom of the Northeast Cave, often referred to as Carnivore Island's cave. This location features vertical drop-offs and swarms of aggressive predators guarding the relic. Careful navigation and reliable mobility equipment are necessary to retrieve the artifact without falling to the depths.
Navigating the Underwater Caverns for Deep Sea Artifacts
Securing every relic on The Island requires survivors to dive deep into the surrounding oceans to conquer underwater caverns. The Caverns of Lost Faith house the Artifact of the Brute, surrounded by electrocuting jellyfish and massive marine predators. Equipping a high-grade SCUBA set and riding a powerful aquatic mount like a Megalodon or Basilosaurus is essential for underwater survival.
Additionally, the Caverns of Lost Hope hold the Artifact of the Cunning deep within the eastern ocean trenches. This cavern is notorious for high creature density and complex water tunnels that easily disorient unprepared divers. Establishing clear entry strategies and bringing extra oxygen tanks will keep your aquatic expedition on track.
Preparing Gear and Mounts for Boss Summoning
Collecting all ten artifacts is only the first phase of preparing for the island's endgame boss arenas. Survivors must combine these relics with specific trophy items dropped by alpha creatures to activate the obelisk portals. Thorough preparation and resource planning ensure your tribe can summon the bosses and complete the island's ultimate story challenge.