How To Get Steel Bars Conan Exiles

Okay, Let's Talk Steel (And Why It Hates Me)

So, you need steel bars in Conan Exiles. Don't we all? Seems like everyone's got a fancy steel sword but me.

First, you gotta find some iron. Lots and lots of iron. Seriously, more than you think. I swear, I spend half my game just hitting rocks.

This is my unpopular opinion: Mining is boring. But hey, shiny steel is worth it... allegedly.

Smelting Time (A.K.A. Waiting Simulator)

Okay, iron ore + furnace = iron bars. This part is pretty straightforward. Light it up, and go grab a snack. You'll be waiting a while.

I usually use this time to get raided by hyenas. Or maybe just contemplate my life choices. Fun times!

The Secret Ingredient: Brimstone

Now things get interesting. You need brimstone. This is where the *real* adventure begins. And by adventure, I mean a slightly less boring form of mining.

Brimstone is found in caves. Specifically, caves that smell faintly of rotten eggs. And are usually full of something that wants to eat you. Good times.

My tip? Go at night. The glowing makes the brimstone easier to see. Also, bring a friend! (Or sacrificial thrall. You do you.)

Seriously, though, those caves are NO joke. Stock up on healing potions and remember to watch for falling stalactites. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Firebowl Cauldron Shenanigans

Brimstone in hand, find yourself a Firebowl Cauldron. These are learned through a feat. It's basically a big magical pot for evil concoctions. So cool!

Dump in your iron bars and your brimstone. Wait. Wait some more. Yep, more waiting. Hope you brought a good book or something.

Another controversial take: The waiting is part of the fun! It builds anticipation. (Okay, maybe not. But I'm trying to stay positive here!)

Finally! Steel Bars! (Maybe...)

After what feels like an eternity, your steel bars are ready! Huzzah! Go craft something cool! Or, you know, immediately get killed by a rhino and lose everything.

That's usually how it goes for me, anyway. But hey, at least I know how to make steel bars now! Right? Right?

You're probably thinking this is way too much effort for a decent sword. And you know what? You might be right. But where's the fun in buying one from a vendor?

And my last unpopular opinion: The struggle is what makes it rewarding. (Even when the struggle involves getting repeatedly stomped by rhinos.)

Pro-Tips That Probably Won't Help But Here They Are Anyway

Always carry a pickaxe. Obvious, but you'd be surprised.

Thralls are your friends. Especially the ones that can fight.

Don't forget to eat and drink. Dehydration and starvation are real killers. (And also kinda embarrassing.)

If you see a world boss, run. Just run. Don't even think about fighting it. Unless you're into that sort of thing. Then, by all means, become monster food!

And remember folks, a Conan Exiles life filled with gathering, smelting, and fighting dangerous creatures, all for a tiny piece of glorious steel, is a life well-lived. Or at least, a very entertaining one.