ARK Aberration Artifacts: All Locations Revealed!

Hey, fellow ARK survivors! Today, we're diving deep into the treacherous, yet strangely beautiful, world of Aberration. If you're looking to unlock the secrets of this unique ARK, you're going to need to find those elusive artifacts. These glowing treasures are crucial for progression, allowing you to access new areas, tame powerful creatures, and ultimately, conquer the Aberration's challenges. But let's be real, finding them can be a real pain in the backside, right? This guide is here to make that hunt way easier for you, guys. We'll cover every single artifact location on Aberration, giving you the rundown on the best routes and any tricky bits to watch out for. So grab your glowsticks, charge up your charge lanterns, and let's get exploring!

The Importance of Aberration Artifacts

So, why are these Aberration artifacts such a big deal? Well, think of them as keys to progression in this wild, subterranean ARK. Each artifact you collect not only gives you a nice chunk of experience points (XP) – which, let's face it, we all need more of – but they also unlock access to the Tek Cave and the Overseer boss fight. Without them, you're essentially stuck in the early to mid-game. Beyond that, finding artifacts often takes you through some of the most interesting and dangerous biomes Aberration has to offer. You'll encounter unique flora and fauna, face environmental hazards like radiation zones and extreme darkness, and generally test your survival skills to the limit. The journey to each artifact is an adventure in itself, and sometimes, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Plus, some creatures in Aberration, like the powerful Rock Drake, can only be hatched and raised after you've gathered certain artifacts or completed specific objectives tied to them. Getting these artifacts isn't just about ticking a box; it's about opening up the full potential of the Aberration map and pushing your ARK survival game to the next level. So, if you're ready to really survive Aberration, mastering artifact collection is your first major mission. Let's not forget the lore implications too! These artifacts often have ties to the overarching story of ARK, hinting at the experiments and history of the world you're stranded in. Pretty cool, huh?

The Complete Guide to Aberration Artifact Locations

Alright, survivors, it's time to get down to business. Aberration has a total of seven artifacts scattered across its massive, underground world. We'll break them down one by one, giving you the clearest directions possible. Remember, Aberration is a tough map, so always be prepared before you set out. Bring plenty of light sources, healing items, and make sure you have some reliable defenses or a quick escape plan.

1. The Artifact of the Buldge

Let's kick things off with the Artifact of the Buldge. This one is relatively accessible early on, located in the Fertile Zone, specifically within the large cave system known as the Glow-worm caves. To get here, you'll want to head towards the northeastern part of the map, near the large river that flows through the Fertile Zone. The entrance to the cave system is quite noticeable, often marked by a cluster of glow-worms. Once inside, navigate through the various tunnels. The artifact itself is usually found in a chamber deeper within the cave. Keep an eye out for the distinctive glow of the artifact, which stands out even in the natural bioluminescence of the cave. Be aware of the various creatures that inhabit these caves, including Karkinos and Pulmonoscorpius. A good tip is to bring a strong melee weapon or a ranged weapon with good damage. If you're playing with friends, coordinate your search; one person can distract the creatures while another grabs the artifact. The Glow-worm caves can be a bit of a maze, so it's a good idea to mark your path with beacons or even leave a trail of foundations if you're feeling particularly cautious. The artifact spawns on a small ledge or platform, often overlooking a larger cavern. Remember to be mindful of your oxygen levels if you're exploring underwater sections, though the Artifact of the Buldge itself isn't typically underwater. The journey here is a good introduction to the challenges of Aberration, so don't underestimate it!

2. The Artifact of the Scale

Next up is the Artifact of the Scale, which is nestled within the perilous Dragonmal Ice Cave. This cave is found in the colder, more northern regions of Aberration. Specifically, you're looking for an entrance in the area known as the Emerald Forest, not too far from the border with the radiation zone. The cave itself is a challenging environment, filled with icy hazards and hostile creatures. The artifact is located deep inside, often requiring you to navigate through narrow passages and icy crevasses. Be prepared for extreme cold, so thermal suits or appropriate mutations are a must. The primary threats here are the numerous ice-themed creatures, including the notoriously aggressive Ravager packs and sometimes even Spinosaurus if you venture too deep or into connected watery areas. The artifact typically rests on an elevated platform or within a crystalline structure. Pay close attention to the cave's layout; it's easy to get lost in the winding ice tunnels. Using a creature with good mobility and resistance to cold, like a Karkinos, can be incredibly helpful for traversing the terrain and fighting off enemies. Alternatively, a well-equipped player with a good shotgun or rifle can make the trek. The artifact's glow is your beacon in the icy darkness. Make sure you have a reliable light source, as the ambient light in the cave is minimal. The Dragonmal Ice Cave is a true test of your preparation and combat skills on Aberration, so go in with a solid plan!

3. The Artifact of the Devourer

Now, let's venture into the Artifact of the Devourer. This artifact is found within the depths of the Spine Cave, a notorious location in Aberration known for its hazardous terrain and aggressive inhabitants. The Spine Cave is situated in the treacherous Badlands area, a region characterized by sharp rock formations and a generally hostile environment. To find the artifact, you'll need to navigate through the winding, narrow passages of the Spine Cave. This cave is particularly challenging due to its verticality and the numerous drops and climbs required. The artifact is usually located at a significant depth within the cave system, often requiring you to descend quite far. Expect encounters with Seekers, Ravagers, and potentially even Karkinos. The environment itself can be a hazard, with unstable ground and sharp stalactites and stalagmites. It's crucial to have good climbing gear or a creature capable of vertical traversal, like a grappling hook or a Rock Drake, to access some areas. The artifact is typically found on a ledge or in a small alcove. The Artifact of the Devourer is well-hidden, so keep your eyes peeled for its distinctive glow. This artifact often requires a bit of careful platforming and combat prowess. Make sure your lighting is adequate, and bring plenty of healing items. This is one of those artifacts that really pushes your exploration and combat skills. The Spine Cave is a true test, so tread carefully, survivors!

4. The Artifact of the Strong

The Artifact of the Strong resides within the Fertile Crescent Cave, a location that, despite its name, is still very much a part of Aberration's challenging landscape. This cave system is located in the central part of the map, often accessible from the Fertile Zone. You'll need to navigate through a series of interconnected caverns, some of which may contain underground rivers or lakes. The artifact is usually found deeper within this network. Be prepared for a variety of creatures, including Mantis, Gasbags, and other hostile fauna native to Aberration's diverse biomes. The cave can be somewhat confusing with its branching paths, so again, marking your route is a wise strategy. The artifact is typically found in a relatively open chamber, but reaching it might involve crossing dangerous terrain or defeating a significant number of defenders. Make sure you have a reliable means of defense, whether it's powerful weapons or a tamed creature that can handle aggressive mobs. The Artifact of the Strong doesn't always spawn in the most straightforward location, so exploration and persistence are key. Don't forget to check higher ledges or hidden nooks. The atmosphere within the Fertile Crescent Cave can be disorienting, so staying focused on your objective is important. This artifact requires a good balance of combat readiness and navigational skill. Good luck out there!

5. The Artifact of the Patient

Let's talk about the Artifact of the Patient. This one is found within the Hall of Dinosaurs cave, a rather grand-sounding name for a dangerous locale. This cave system is located in the northernmost part of Aberration, within the Radiation Zone. This means you absolutely must have adequate radiation protection, such as a full Hazmat suit or specialized mutations, before attempting to retrieve this artifact. The cave itself is a sprawling network of tunnels and chambers, and the artifact is usually found quite deep within. Be ready for a serious fight; the Hall of Dinosaurs is home to some of Aberration's most formidable creatures, including Reapers, Nameless, and often large packs of Ravagers. The terrain can be treacherous, with many drops and narrow passages. The artifact itself is often located on a raised platform or in a hard-to-reach area, demanding careful navigation and possibly climbing. The sheer danger of the Radiation Zone combined with the aggressive wildlife makes this one of the more challenging artifacts to acquire. Having a Rock Drake for mobility and protection is almost essential for this run. Be sure to bring plenty of healing and ammo. The Artifact of the Patient lives up to its name; you'll need a good deal of patience and resilience to find it. Don't get discouraged if it takes a few tries!

6. The Artifact of the Clever

Moving on to the Artifact of the Clever, which is hidden within the Mushroom Cave. This cave is located in the Fertile Zone, often found near the large, glowing mushroom forests that characterize this area. The entrance can be a bit tricky to spot, so keep an eye out for openings in the terrain surrounded by the characteristic blue and purple flora. Once inside, you'll find yourself in a bioluminescent wonderland, but don't let the beauty fool you – it's teeming with dangers. The artifact is usually situated in a chamber deeper within the cave system. Expect encounters with Gasbags, Mantis, and various other cave-dwelling creatures. The Mushroom Cave can be disorienting due to its similar-looking tunnels and the pervasive glow. Using a creature with good sensory abilities or simply marking your path diligently is highly recommended. The Artifact of the Clever is often found on a ledge or in a nook that requires some platforming to reach. The environment itself is quite hazardous, so be mindful of where you step. Having a creature that can navigate vertical spaces easily is a huge plus. This artifact demands careful exploration and a good sense of direction. Prepare for a challenging but rewarding trek through a visually stunning and dangerous part of Aberration.

7. The Artifact of the Smart

Finally, we have the Artifact of the Smart, located in the Acid Caves. As the name suggests, these caves are filled with corrosive acid pools, posing a significant environmental hazard. The Acid Caves are typically found in the Mushroom Forest or near the edge of the Radiation Zone. You absolutely need a full Hazmat suit or appropriate gear to survive the acid damage. The artifact is usually found in a central chamber or a deeper section of the cave system, often requiring you to navigate across acid pools or through narrow, winding passages. Be prepared for aggressive fauna that has adapted to this harsh environment, including Acid-Chamber Spiders, Karkinos, and potentially Ravagers. Careful traversal is key; falling into the acid can be fatal. Using a creature that can fly or hover, like a Gasbag (used strategically), or one that is immune or highly resistant to acid damage is highly advantageous. Alternatively, careful use of grappling hooks and well-timed jumps can get you across the perilous pools. The Artifact of the Smart is well worth the effort, as it's often located in a visually striking part of the cave. Ensure your lighting is excellent, and bring ample healing supplies. This artifact is a true test of your environmental navigation and combat readiness on Aberration. Don't get too cocky; the acid is no joke!

Conclusion: Mastering Aberration's Artifacts

And there you have it, guys! That's the complete rundown of all Aberration artifact locations in ARK Survival Evolved. Collecting these artifacts is no small feat, requiring preparation, courage, and a good understanding of Aberration's unforgiving landscape. Each artifact presents its own unique set of challenges, from navigating treacherous caves and hazardous environments to fending off some of the most dangerous creatures on the map. But with this guide, you should have a much clearer path to finding them all. Remember to always be prepared, take your time, and don't be afraid to use the right tools and creatures for the job. Whether you're using a Rock Drake to soar through caves, a Karkinos to smash through enemies, or just your trusty Charge Lantern to light the way, every bit of preparation counts. Happy hunting, survivors, and may your artifact runs be successful!