What are the best ways to gather cementing paste in the Valguero map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

Cementing Paste is one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially in the Valguero map, as it is essential for crafting advanced structures, weapons, and tools. There are several effective methods to gather Cementing Paste in Valguero, each with its own mechanics, strategies, and considerations. Below is a detailed guide on the best ways to gather Cementing Paste, covering everything from basic methods to advanced techniques.

One of the most straightforward ways to gather Cementing Paste is by harvesting it from beaver dams. In Valguero, beaver dams are commonly found in the Redwood Forest and the rivers near the Green Obelisk. These dams contain large amounts of Cementing Paste, along with other resources like wood and rare flowers. To harvest Cementing Paste from a beaver dam, approach it carefully, as beavers are territorial and will attack if they feel threatened. It is recommended to use a tamed creature like a Sabertooth or Raptor to clear the area of beavers before looting the dam. Once the area is safe, access the damÔÇÖs inventory and transfer the Cementing Paste to your own inventory. Be aware that looting a dam will cause the beavers to become hostile, so be prepared to defend yourself or flee quickly. After looting, the dam will eventually respawn, allowing you to return later for more resources.

Another effective method for gathering Cementing Paste is by crafting it using Chitin or Keratin and Stone. This method requires a Mortar and Pestle or a Chemistry Bench. Chitin and Keratin can be obtained by harvesting insects, scorpions, or certain dinosaurs like Triceratops and Ankylosaurus. Stone is abundant and can be gathered from rocks using a pickaxe or a tamed Ankylosaurus. To craft Cementing Paste, combine 4 Chitin or Keratin with 8 Stone in the Mortar and Pestle or Chemistry Bench. This method is particularly useful if you are unable to locate beaver dams or prefer a more controlled and consistent way of obtaining Cementing Paste.

For players with access to tamed creatures, using a Doedicurus and a Megatherium can significantly optimize Cementing Paste gathering. The Doedicurus is excellent for harvesting large amounts of Stone, while the Megatherium is highly effective at gathering Chitin from insects. By combining the resources gathered from these creatures, you can craft Cementing Paste in bulk. This method is especially useful for tribes, as multiple players can work together to gather and process resources more efficiently.

Advanced players can also utilize the Achatina, a snail-like creature that produces Achatina Paste, which functions similarly to Cementing Paste. Achatina can be tamed using Sweet Vegetable Cake and will passively produce Achatina Paste over time. While this method is slower compared to others, it provides a steady and renewable source of Cementing Paste without the need for constant resource gathering. Achatina are particularly useful for solo players or small tribes looking to maintain a consistent supply of Cementing Paste for base building and crafting.

When gathering Cementing Paste, it is important to consider resource management and preparation. Always carry a sufficient number of tools, such as pickaxes and hatchets, as well as a tamed creature for protection and resource gathering. If you are looting beaver dams, ensure you have enough inventory space to carry the Cementing Paste and other valuable resources. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings, as ValgueroÔÇÖs rivers and forests are home to dangerous creatures like Carnotaurus and Sabertooths. Having a tamed mount with high health and damage output can help you navigate these areas safely.

Common mistakes to avoid include looting beaver dams without clearing the area of beavers first, as this can lead to unnecessary combat and potential death. Another mistake is neglecting to craft Cementing Paste in bulk when you have the necessary resources, which can slow down your progression. Additionally, failing to protect your base or tamed creatures while gathering resources can result in significant losses, especially in PvP servers.

For tribes, coordination is key to optimizing Cementing Paste gathering. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one player gathering Stone with a Doedicurus while another collects Chitin with a Megatherium. This division of labor can significantly increase efficiency and allow the tribe to stockpile Cementing Paste for large-scale projects. Solo players should focus on taming creatures like the Achatina or using a combination of resource gathering and crafting to maintain a steady supply.

In conclusion, gathering Cementing Paste in Valguero requires a combination of resource gathering, crafting, and creature taming. Whether you are looting beaver dams, crafting Cementing Paste from Chitin and Stone, or utilizing tamed creatures like the Achatina, there are multiple strategies to suit different playstyles and situations. By following the tips and strategies outlined above, you can efficiently gather Cementing Paste and progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.