How do I locate the artifact of the Devious in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Locating the Artifact of the Devious in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task. This artifact is one of the key items required to summon the Dragon boss on The Island map. It is found in the Caverns of Lost Faith, an underwater cave located in the western part of the map. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully retrieve the artifact, covering mechanics, strategies, and important considerations.

The Caverns of Lost Faith is an underwater cave, which means you will need to prepare for underwater exploration. The cave is home to dangerous creatures such as Megalodons, Eurypterids, and Cnidaria, so proper preparation is essential. You will need a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Tuso (Tusoteuthis), to navigate the cave safely. Basilosaurus is highly recommended due to its immunity to the stun effects of Cnidaria and its high health pool.

Before entering the cave, gather the necessary resources. You will need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your mount during the journey. Additionally, pack a good weapon, such as a crossbow or harpoon gun, to deal with hostile creatures. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a few extra supplies in case of emergencies.

To locate the cave, head to the western coast of The Island, near the coordinates 19.1 latitude and 57.7 longitude. The entrance is underwater, so dive down and look for a large opening in the ocean floor. Once inside, follow the cave's winding path. The cave is relatively linear, but it has several twists and turns, so stay alert. Keep an eye out for air pockets along the way, as they can provide a brief respite to regain stamina or heal.

As you progress through the cave, you will encounter various hostile creatures. Use your mount to fight off Megalodons and Eurypterids. Be cautious of Cnidaria, as their stun attacks can immobilize you and your mount. If you are using a Basilosaurus, you can ignore the Cnidaria, but other mounts will require careful maneuvering to avoid them. Clear out enemies as you go to ensure a safe path for your return trip.

The Artifact of the Devious is located in a small chamber near the end of the cave. You will need to dismount and swim into the chamber to retrieve it. Be prepared for a possible ambush by Eurypterids or other creatures. Once you have the artifact, quickly return to your mount and exit the cave. The artifact is a key item, so losing it would mean having to repeat the entire process.

Common mistakes to avoid include entering the cave without proper preparation, underestimating the dangers of underwater combat, and failing to clear enemies along the way. Always ensure your mount is well-fed and healed before entering the cave. If you are playing with a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover each other during the journey. Solo players should take extra care to avoid being overwhelmed by enemies.

Advanced techniques include using a Tuso to grab and eliminate threats quickly or bringing a pack of trained Megalodons for added protection. You can also use grappling hooks to navigate tricky sections of the cave or to escape dangerous situations. If you have access to Tek gear, the Tek Suit can provide enhanced mobility and protection underwater.

In summary, retrieving the Artifact of the Devious requires careful preparation, a strong water mount, and a clear strategy for navigating the Caverns of Lost Faith. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, prioritize safety and efficiency to ensure a successful mission. With the right approach, you can secure the artifact and move one step closer to summoning the Dragon boss.