What are the best strategies for fighting Stone Golems?

Stone Golems are one of the toughest enemies in Valheim, found primarily in the Mountain biome. These massive rock creatures are slow but deal devastating damage, making them a significant threat to unprepared players. To effectively fight Stone Golems, you need to understand their mechanics, prepare the right gear, and use smart strategies.\n\nFirst, Stone Golems have two attack patterns: a ground slam and a ranged rock throw. The ground slam is a close-range attack that deals heavy damage and can knock you back, while the rock throw is a ranged attack that can hit you from a distance. Both attacks are telegraphed, giving you time to dodge. The key to fighting Stone Golems is to avoid their attacks while dealing consistent damage.\n\nTo prepare for this fight, you’ll need strong gear. A fully upgraded Iron or Silver weapon is recommended, as Stone Golems are resistant to most damage types except for pickaxes. Surprisingly, pickaxes are highly effective against Stone Golems, as they deal bonus damage to their rocky bodies. Equip a high-tier pickaxe like the Iron Pickaxe or better, and pair it with a shield for blocking their attacks. Additionally, wear Wolf Armor or similar high-tier armor to reduce incoming damage.\n\nWhen engaging a Stone Golem, start by luring it to an open area. Fighting in tight spaces can make it harder to dodge their attacks. Use the terrain to your advantage by positioning yourself on higher ground, which can limit their movement and make it easier to avoid their ground slam. Keep your stamina high by consuming stamina-boosting foods like Serpent Stew or Turnip Stew, as dodging and attacking will drain your stamina quickly.\n\nDuring the fight, focus on dodging their attacks rather than blocking. While a shield can help, Stone Golems’ attacks are so powerful that blocking can still stagger you. Instead, roll to the side when they slam the ground or throw rocks. After dodging, quickly close the distance and attack with your pickaxe. Aim for their weak points, such as their legs or arms, to maximize damage. Repeat this pattern of dodging and attacking until the Stone Golem is defeated.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with multiple Stone Golems. If you encounter more than one, try to separate them by using the terrain or running away to create distance. Fighting multiple Stone Golems at once is extremely dangerous, so focus on taking them down one at a time. If you’re overwhelmed, retreat and regroup before re-engaging.\n\nFor experienced players, consider using Frostner, a Silver-tier mace, as it deals frost damage and slows enemies. This can make it easier to kite Stone Golems and avoid their attacks. Additionally, bringing a bow and frost arrows can help chip away at their health from a safe distance, though this method is slower than using a pickaxe.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. Stone Golems can spawn in areas with other enemies like Wolves or Drakes, so clear the area before engaging. Bring healing meads and stamina potions to sustain yourself during prolonged fights. With the right preparation and strategy, Stone Golems can be defeated efficiently, allowing you to harvest their valuable resources like Crystal and Stone.\n\nIn summary, fighting Stone Golems requires a mix of preparation, timing, and smart positioning. Use a pickaxe for maximum damage, dodge their attacks, and take advantage of the terrain. With these strategies, even new players can overcome these formidable foes and thrive in the Mountain biome.