Navigating the sprawling subterranean networks of ARK Survival requires thorough preparation, especially when hunting for key progression items. The Artifact of the Clever serves as a critical relic for survivors aiming to conquer end-game boss encounters on The Island map. Understanding where to locate this relic and how to safely retrieve it ensures a smooth path toward boss summons.
Locating the Central Cave Entrance
The primary location for the Artifact of the Clever is within the Central Cave, situated near the center of The Island map close to the Volcano. Survivors can find the cave entrance at approximately latitude 41.5 and longitude 47.1 in a forested ravine. Finding this landmark is relatively straightforward, but players should remain vigilant of local wildlife near the entrance.
Once inside, the cave system branches slightly, but following the leftward path generally leads deeper toward the artifact chamber. The relic itself sits on a pedestal at latitude 39.5 and longitude 45.9, surrounded by atmospheric subterranean structures. Knowing the exact coordinates allows players to minimize unnecessary exploration time inside hazardous tunnels.
Navigating Hazards and In-Cave Enemies
The Central Cave is densely populated with aggressive subterranean creatures, including Araneo, Pulmonoscorpius, Titanoboa, and Arthropleura. These aggressive spawns can inflict debilitating status conditions such as high torpor, severe poison, or armor degradation. Additionally, dangerous Megalosaurus spawns make nighttime cave runs significantly more perilous for unprepared travelers.
Water hazards also exist within the deeper sections of the cave system, where lakes are filled with hostile Piranhas. While an underwater segment exists in the artifact room, swimming is completely unnecessary to reach the artifact itself. Clearing enemy clusters systematically with ranged weapons or sturdy combat tames prevents players from becoming overwhelmed in tight chokepoints.
Recommended Gear and Mount Strategies
Choosing the correct tame makes retrieving the Artifact of the Clever substantially easier and safer. Medium-sized mounts such as Sabertooths, Baryonyx, or Direwolves can navigate the narrow cave passages while harvesting massive amounts of chitin. Alternatively, players can carry larger tames inside Cryopods to clear difficult combat chambers with ease.
Survivors venturing on foot should equip high-durability armor, Bug Repellant, and powerful ranged weaponry like shotguns or crossbows. Bringing medical brews, stimulants, and extra water containers helps mitigate poison damage and heat exhaustion during prolonged cave delves. Carrying a tamed Otter is also beneficial, as it allows players to carry multiple artifacts in a single run.
The Primary Purpose of the Artifact of the Clever
The core objective of obtaining the Artifact of the Clever is to unlock the tribute requirement for summoning Broodmother Lysrix. Combined with other specific artifacts and trophy items, this relic is essential for activating the boss portal at any Obelisk. Defeating the Broodmother rewards players with valuable Tek Grams and Element required for end-game crafting.
Because artifacts respawn after a set duration, players often farm this location to prepare for multiple boss tier difficulties. Setting up a streamlined farming routine at the Central Cave helps tribes efficiently stock up on key tributes. Securing the Artifact of the Clever represents a major milestone in advancing through the main storyline of ARK.
