What’s the most efficient way to gather black metal in the Plains biome?

Gathering black metal in the Plains biome is a crucial step for advancing in Valheim, as it is used to craft some of the game''s strongest weapons, tools, and armor. Black metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains. These enemies drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal bars at a blast furnace. To efficiently gather black metal, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the biome''s dangers, and optimize your farming strategy.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. This biome is one of the most dangerous in Valheim, with deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with high-tier armor, such as wolf armor or padded armor, and bring a strong weapon like a silver sword or black metal weapon if you already have one. A fully upgraded bow and plenty of arrows are also essential for dealing with Deathsquitos and Fuling shamans from a distance. Additionally, bring healing meads, stamina meads, and food that boosts your health and stamina, such as serpent stew, lox meat pie, or bread.\n\nTo maximize your black metal yield, focus on Fuling camps. These camps are scattered throughout the Plains and are home to multiple Fulings, including berserkers and shamans. Fuling berserkers and shamans drop more black metal scraps than regular Fulings, so prioritize defeating them. Approach camps cautiously, as Fulings are aggressive and can overwhelm you if you''re not careful. Use the terrain to your advantage by luring enemies into narrow spaces or using natural barriers to limit their movement. This will allow you to fight them one at a time or use area-of-effect attacks effectively.\n\nOne effective strategy is to use a bow to aggro Fulings from a distance and then retreat to a safe area where you can fight them on your terms. For example, you can build a small outpost near a Fuling camp with walls and a portal for quick escapes. This allows you to engage enemies in a controlled environment and retreat if things get too dangerous. Additionally, consider bringing a tamed Lox to help you fight Fulings. Lox are powerful allies that can deal significant damage and distract enemies, giving you an advantage in combat.\n\nAfter defeating Fulings, collect the black metal scraps they drop. These scraps cannot be smelted in a regular furnace; you need a blast furnace, which requires artisan table access and specific materials to craft. To build a blast furnace, you will need 20 fine wood, 10 iron, 4 chains, and 5 surtling cores. Fine wood can be obtained from birch or oak trees, iron is found in the Swamp biome, chains are dropped by Wraiths in the Swamp or found in chests, and surtling cores are obtained from burial chambers or surtling spawners in the Ashlands. Once you have a blast furnace, smelt the black metal scraps into bars, which can then be used for crafting.\n\nA common challenge when farming black metal is dealing with Deathsquitos, which can kill you in one hit if you''re not careful. Always keep an eye out for these fast-flying enemies and prioritize taking them down with your bow before engaging Fulings. Another challenge is managing stamina during prolonged fights. Use stamina-boosting foods and meads to ensure you can dodge, block, and attack effectively. If you''re playing with friends, coordinate your attacks to divide enemy attention and increase your chances of success.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to gather black metal in the Plains biome involves thorough preparation, strategic combat, and proper resource management. Equip yourself with strong gear, focus on Fuling camps, and use terrain and allies to your advantage. Build a blast furnace to smelt black metal scraps into bars, and always be mindful of the biome''s dangers. With these strategies, you''ll be able to gather black metal efficiently and craft powerful gear to aid your Viking adventures.