Element

The glowing blue heart of the ARK's advanced technology and ultimate power.

Element is a volatile, crystalline substance that serves as the primary energy source and technological catalyst within the ARK universe. Resembling glowing shards of blue matter, it fuels the advanced machinery, turrets, and vehicles scattered across the island. Beyond its utility in crafting and automation, Element acts as a key component for high-level survival, often required to unlock the most powerful dinosaurs and structures available to stranded survivors.

Quick Facts

Function

Fuel for Tek Systems
crafting Tek Saddles/Structures
and powering advanced machinery

Lore & Background

For the survivors who wash ashore, Element is the bridge between primitive survival and god-like power. It is the currency of the end game, required to craft Tek saddles for creatures like the Quetzal or to construct the Tek tier structures that offer unparalleled protection. Note that while Quetzals are formidable herbivores tamed using Mejoberries and narcotics, Element is exclusively used to equip them with their advanced Tek saddle. Its presence marks the transition from a simple struggle for food and shelter to a complex battle for dominance using the island's own advanced secrets against one another.

Reader's Guide

Players must be cautious when handling large quantities, as it is often guarded by aggressive fauna or rival tribes seeking to monopolize the resource. Securing a steady supply of Element is usually the primary objective for established bases looking to expand their capabilities and dominate the ARK environment through superior technology.

Did You Know?

Element comes in different forms, including 'Element Dust' which is used for specific crafting recipes and 'Element Shards' found on later maps.
The glowing blue aesthetic of Element is visually linked to the mysterious 'Tek' tier of equipment throughout the game series.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Element in ARK?

Element is a volatile, crystalline substance that acts as the primary energy source for advanced technology across the ARK universe. It appears as glowing blue or orange shards and is essential for powering high-tier machinery and vehicles.

How do survivors obtain Element?

Players primarily harvest this resource by defeating Tek-tier creatures like Megaloceros and Quetzal, or by dismantling end-game structures. It is a rare find that typically requires reaching the late stages of survival to collect in meaningful quantities.

What are the different forms of Element?

The substance exists in three distinct variants: raw Element shards, refined Element Dust used for crafting, and powerful Elemental Cores found in specific high-level locations. Each form serves a unique purpose in fueling Tek systems or creating advanced items.

What players say: Player verdict on ARK: Survival Evolved — Rotten Tweets