How do you gather coal for forge upgrades?

Coal is a crucial resource in Valheim, especially for upgrading your forge and crafting advanced items. It is primarily used as fuel for smelting ores and crafting metal items, making it essential for progression. To gather coal, you have several methods available, each with its own mechanics and requirements. Understanding these methods will help you efficiently stockpile coal for your forge upgrades and other crafting needs.\n\nOne of the earliest and most straightforward ways to obtain coal is by burning wood in a Charcoal Kiln. To build a Charcoal Kiln, you need 20 Stone and 5 Surtling Cores, which can be found in Burial Chambers in the Black Forest biome. Once constructed, place wood (such as regular wood or fine wood) into the kiln, and it will slowly convert into coal. This method is reliable and sustainable, as wood is abundant in most biomes. However, it requires time and a steady supply of wood, so it’s best to set up multiple kilns if you need large amounts of coal quickly.\n\nAnother effective way to gather coal is by defeating Surtlings, fiery creatures found in the Ashlands biome or in Surtling spawners within Swamp biomes. Surtlings drop coal when killed, making them a renewable source of this resource. To farm Surtlings efficiently, locate a Surtling spawner in the Swamp and clear the area around it. Surtlings spawn continuously, so you can return to the spawner periodically to collect coal. This method is particularly useful for mid-to-late-game players who have access to the Swamp biome and can handle the enemies there.\n\nFor players exploring the Mountains biome, Drakes can also drop coal when defeated. While this method is less efficient than farming Surtlings, it can supplement your coal supply if you’re already hunting Drakes for other resources. Additionally, coal can occasionally be found in chests within dungeons or abandoned structures, so always explore thoroughly when venturing into new areas.\n\nA more advanced method for obtaining coal involves using a Blast Furnace, which requires Iron and Artisan Table access. The Blast Furnace allows you to smelt Flametal Ore into Flametal, producing coal as a byproduct. This method is only available in the late game, as Flametal Ore is found in the Ashlands biome, which is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim. However, it provides a significant amount of coal alongside valuable Flametal, making it a worthwhile endeavor for experienced players.\n\nTo maximize your coal production, consider combining multiple methods. For example, set up a Charcoal Kiln near your base for a steady supply, while also farming Surtlings in the Swamp for additional coal. This approach ensures you always have enough coal for forge upgrades and other crafting needs. Additionally, always carry a pickaxe when exploring, as coal can sometimes be found in small deposits on the ground, especially in the Black Forest biome.\n\nPractical tips for gathering coal include keeping a stockpile of wood for your Charcoal Kiln, marking Surtling spawners on your map for easy access, and exploring dungeons thoroughly for chests containing coal. If you’re struggling to find Surtling Cores for your Charcoal Kiln, focus on clearing Burial Chambers in the Black Forest, as they often contain multiple cores. Finally, always prioritize upgrading your forge as soon as possible, as it unlocks better tools, weapons, and armor, making your journey through Valheim much smoother.\n\nIn summary, coal is a vital resource for forge upgrades and crafting in Valheim. By using Charcoal Kilns, farming Surtlings, exploring dungeons, and utilizing late-game methods like the Blast Furnace, you can ensure a steady supply of coal. Combine these methods and follow the practical tips provided to efficiently gather coal and progress through the game.