Where can I find the artifact of the Clever in the Central Cave on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Artifact of the Clever is one of the key artifacts required to summon the Broodmother Lysrix, one of the bosses in ARK: Survival Evolved. It is located in the Central Cave, also known as the Lower South Cave, on The Island map. This cave is one of the easier caves to navigate, but it still presents challenges, especially for unprepared players. Below is a detailed guide on how to find the Artifact of the Clever, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

The Central Cave is located in the southern part of The Island, near the coordinates 41.5 latitude and 46.9 longitude. The entrance is relatively easy to spot, as it is a large opening in a cliffside. However, the cave itself is filled with hostile creatures such as bats, spiders, and scorpions, which can pose a significant threat if you are not prepared. The cave is also dark, so bringing a light source like a torch or a flashlight is essential.

Before entering the cave, you need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong mount or dinosaur companion. A high-level Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a pack of raptors can be useful for dealing with the cave's inhabitants. Alternatively, a high-level Baryonyx is an excellent choice due to its ability to attack while swimming, as there are water sections in the cave. Make sure your dinosaur is equipped with a saddle for added protection. You should also bring weapons like a crossbow or a shotgun, along with plenty of ammunition. Armor is crucial, as the cave's creatures can deal significant damage. Chitin or better armor is recommended.

Once you are prepared, head to the cave entrance. Dismount your dinosaur if it is too large to fit through the entrance, as some caves have narrow passages. The Central Cave is relatively small, but it has multiple paths, so it is easy to get lost. Follow the main path, and you will eventually reach a large chamber with a pool of water. The Artifact of the Clever is located in this chamber, but you will need to navigate through the water to reach it. Be cautious, as the water is home to piranhas and other dangers.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the cave's creatures. Even though the Central Cave is considered one of the easier caves, the bats and spiders can quickly overwhelm you if you are not careful. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to retreat if necessary. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of ammunition or healing items in the middle of the cave can be disastrous, so always bring extra.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can make. Using a grappling hook can help you navigate the cave more quickly and avoid some of the ground-based threats. Additionally, bringing a cryopod can allow you to summon a larger dinosaur inside the cave if needed. This can be particularly useful if you encounter a high-level enemy that your current mount cannot handle.

Resource management is also important. Make sure you have enough food, water, and medical brews to sustain yourself during the expedition. If you are playing solo, consider setting up a small base near the cave entrance with a bed and storage. This will allow you to respawn and retrieve your items if you die inside the cave. For tribes, coordinating with your teammates can make the process much smoother. Assign roles, such as one player focusing on combat while another handles navigation and resource gathering.

In summary, finding the Artifact of the Clever in the Central Cave requires careful preparation and strategy. Bring a strong dinosaur companion, adequate weapons and armor, and plenty of supplies. Navigate the cave carefully, and be prepared to deal with its hostile inhabitants. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the cave's dangers or running out of supplies. With the right approach, you can successfully retrieve the artifact and progress further in the game.