Securing crafting materials in NieR: Automata can be a real challenge. Some, like the elusive Pristine Screw, are far rarer than others. While there's no visual indicator, their scarcity is undeniable. While you can purchase Pristine Screws from Emil, his inventory fluctuates, and hunting them yourself is often quicker and cheaper. Let's explore the best farming methods.
Pristine Screws are dropped by Goliath-Bipeds, the largest non-boss machines. Various screws drop from these enemies, but Pristine Screws are the rarest. Higher-level Goliath-Bipeds yield a better chance, making early-game farming practically impossible.
Several locations reliably spawn Goliath-Bipeds. The pit where you first encounter Adam is one such spot, also useful for farming Machine Arms. However, the Goliath-Bipeds here are only around level 30, resulting in a very low Pristine Screw drop rate. The advantage is their constant respawn, allowing for rapid farming despite the low drop rate.
Alternatively, during your third playthrough, fast travel to the Forest Castle: Front access point. Two level 49 Goliath-Bipeds guard the entrance. Their higher level increases the Pristine Screw drop chance, but they don't respawn. You'll need to fast travel to a distant location and then return to continue farming.
Both methods benefit from using a drop-rate up plug-in chip to boost your chances.
The optimal method depends on two key factors: your game's loading times and your patience.
Farming Pristine Screws takes time. The Forest method offers a higher drop rate but involves frequent loading screens, minimizing actual gameplay. If loading screens don't bother you, choose this method. If you prefer continuous gameplay and want to farm other materials simultaneously, the pit offers consistent action, additional materials, and XP.