What’s the best way to incorporate trenches into fort defenses?

Incorporating trenches into fort defenses in Valheim is a highly effective strategy to protect your base from enemy raids, especially in the early to mid-game. Trenches act as a physical barrier, preventing enemies like Greydwarves, Trolls, and even Fulings from reaching your walls or structures. To create a functional trench, you’ll need to understand the game’s terrain manipulation mechanics and plan your defenses carefully.\n\nFirst, choose a location for your fort. Biomes like Meadows or Black Forest are ideal for beginners due to their relatively low enemy threat levels. Once you’ve selected a spot, equip your Hoe and Pickaxe. The Hoe is used to level the ground, while the Pickaxe is essential for digging trenches. Start by marking the perimeter of your fort, ensuring the trench will surround the entire base. A good rule of thumb is to make the trench at least 4-5 meters wide and deep enough that enemies cannot climb out.\n\nDigging the trench requires patience and precision. Use the Pickaxe to remove dirt and create a steep drop-off. Be mindful of the terrain; uneven ground can make digging more challenging. If you encounter large rocks or boulders, break them with your Pickaxe to clear the area. Once the trench is dug, use the Hoe to smooth the edges and ensure the walls are steep enough to prevent enemies from climbing. For added security, you can line the bottom of the trench with wooden spikes or place a raised earth wall on the inner side of the trench.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with waterlogged trenches in biomes like Swamps or near rivers. While water can slow enemies, it can also make the trench harder to maintain. To address this, build a drainage system by digging a small channel leading away from the trench. Alternatively, embrace the water and create a moat-like defense, combining the trench with water to further hinder enemy movement.\n\nFor advanced players, consider integrating trenches with other defensive structures. For example, build a raised earth wall behind the trench and place wooden or stone palisades on top. This creates a layered defense, forcing enemies to navigate multiple obstacles. Additionally, you can place archer towers or ballistae along the trench to provide ranged support during raids.\n\nTrenches are particularly effective against Trolls, who can easily destroy walls but struggle to cross wide gaps. In the Plains biome, where Fulings and Lox pose significant threats, trenches can buy you valuable time to prepare for combat. However, be cautious of flying enemies like Drakes or Deathsquitos, as trenches won’t stop them. Pair your trench defenses with roofs or enclosed structures to protect against aerial attacks.\n\nFinally, maintain your trench regularly. Over time, erosion or enemy attacks can damage the trench, reducing its effectiveness. Use the Hoe to repair any collapsed sections and reinforce the walls with stone or wood if necessary. By combining trenches with other defensive strategies, you can create a nearly impenetrable fort that will keep your base safe from even the toughest enemies.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra materials like wood and stone for quick repairs during raids. Use the ‘Raise Ground’ feature of the Hoe to create elevated walkways for easy access across the trench. Experiment with different trench designs, such as zigzag patterns or multiple layers, to confuse and slow down enemies. With careful planning and execution, trenches can be a cornerstone of your Valheim fort defenses.