Obsidian is a valuable ingredient for polymer and other advanced crafting recipes.
PC / Global, The Island map focus
WHERE & HOW TO FARM
Where to farm
Obsidian nodes shown on The Island resource map, including deposits in mountain and cave regions.
Obsidian is gathered from marked nodes, commonly on difficult mountain or cave routes. Plan around the terrain and the bulky return load: collect what you can carry safely, then bring it to the crafting station or storage where it is needed. A cave marker does not make the cave entrance or route safe, so assess access separately from the resource location.
Armor, supplies, and a mount suited to the selected route.
Carry capacity for the return journey.
Enable the Obsidian layer on The Island resource map and choose a node cluster with a clear access plan.
Identify nearby landmarks and use the in-game map to confirm your approach.
Inspect the terrain and nearby threats before mining; for cave deposits, prepare for the cave route as well as the nodes.
Harvest visible black obsidian nodes with a pickaxe.
Check the amount gathered and your carrier's remaining capacity before extending the run.
Return along your planned path while the load and conditions remain manageable.
Store the obsidian or take it to the crafting station for recipes that use it.
Farming tips
The resource map's node layer is distinct from cave entrance and explorer map overlays; plan the entrance and access path separately.
Do not carry a load that prevents a safe return from steep or exposed terrain.
Repeat, collect and use
Repeat the node-to-storage loop when your crafting stock needs replenishing. This is a renewable gathering activity, with no single one-time completion or guaranteed quantity per trip.
Common mistakes
Confusing a marked deposit with an easy cave entrance: check access and prepare for the terrain separately.
Mining past a safe load: leave enough capacity and mobility to make the return.
Taking obsidian straight to a recipe that requires another processed material: check the crafting requirement and process or combine materials at base as needed.
When to stop or switch
Stop gathering when you have the amount needed for your next crafting goal, your carrier is near its safe limit, or the route becomes hazardous.
