What’s the best way to upgrade a base to include a bonfire for light?

Upgrading your base in Valheim to include a bonfire for light is a great way to improve visibility, warmth, and overall ambiance. Bonfires are larger and more durable than regular campfires, making them ideal for outdoor or semi-outdoor areas. To build a bonfire, you’ll need to gather specific resources and meet certain crafting requirements. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, including biome-specific tips and solutions to common challenges.\n\nFirst, you’ll need to unlock the bonfire recipe. This requires finding Surtling Cores, which are typically found in Burial Chambers within the Black Forest biome. These dungeons are marked by green torches outside their entrances. Bring a weapon, shield, and some food to survive the Skeletons guarding the chambers. Once inside, search for Surtling Cores in chests or on the ground. You’ll need at least five cores to unlock the bonfire recipe at the Workbench.\n\nNext, gather the materials needed to craft the bonfire. You’ll need 5 Surtling Cores, 10 Wood, and 5 Fine Wood. Fine Wood can be obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees, which are found in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. Use a Bronze Axe or better to harvest these trees. Wood is easily gathered from any tree, but Fine Wood requires a bit more effort. Make sure to stockpile these resources before starting construction.\n\nOnce you have the materials, choose a location for your bonfire. Bonfires are large and require a significant amount of open space. They cannot be placed indoors, so plan for an outdoor or semi-outdoor area like a courtyard or covered patio. Clear the area of debris and ensure there’s enough room for the bonfire’s flames to spread safely. Avoid placing it too close to flammable structures like wooden walls or roofs.\n\nTo build the bonfire, open your crafting menu and select the bonfire from the Workbench tab. Place it in your desired location and confirm the placement. The bonfire will ignite automatically and provide a warm, bright light source. Keep in mind that bonfires require regular maintenance. They consume wood over time, so make sure to keep a stockpile of wood nearby to refuel it as needed.\n\nOne common challenge is protecting your bonfire from rain, which can extinguish it. To prevent this, consider building a roof or overhang above the bonfire. However, ensure the structure doesn’t block the flames or reduce the bonfire’s effectiveness. Another tip is to place the bonfire near your base’s entrance or gathering area to maximize its utility. This not only provides light but also helps keep your character warm during cold nights.\n\nFor experienced players, consider pairing the bonfire with other decorative or functional elements like seating areas, torches, or even a cooking station. This creates a cozy and practical space for your Viking crew. Additionally, bonfires can be used to ward off hostile creatures, as the light and warmth deter certain enemies from approaching your base.\n\nIn summary, upgrading your base with a bonfire involves gathering Surtling Cores, Fine Wood, and regular Wood, then placing the bonfire in a suitable outdoor location. Protect it from rain, keep it fueled, and integrate it into your base’s design for maximum benefit. With these steps, you’ll have a reliable and stylish light source that enhances both the functionality and atmosphere of your Valheim home.