How do you use the terrain to block ranged attacks from Draugr Archers?

Using terrain to block ranged attacks from Draugr Archers in Valheim is a crucial survival tactic, especially in the Swamp biome where these enemies are prevalent. Draugr Archers are dangerous due to their high damage output and accuracy, making it essential to minimize their effectiveness. By leveraging the environment, you can create natural barriers that block their arrows and give you an advantage in combat.\n\nOne of the most effective ways to block ranged attacks is to use large rocks, trees, or uneven terrain as cover. When engaging Draugr Archers, position yourself so that these natural obstacles are between you and the enemy. For example, if you are fighting near a large boulder, circle around it to keep the boulder between you and the archer. This forces the Draugr Archer to reposition, buying you time to attack or heal.\n\nAnother strategy is to use the terrain''s elevation to your advantage. Draugr Archers struggle to hit targets that are significantly higher or lower than them. If you are on higher ground, their arrows will often miss or hit the slope below you. Conversely, if you are below them, their line of sight may be blocked by the terrain. Use this to your advantage by climbing hills or descending into ditches to break their line of sight.\n\nIn the Swamp biome, the dense trees and murky water can also serve as natural cover. When fighting Draugr Archers in this biome, try to position yourself behind trees or in shallow water. The trees will block arrows, and the water can slow down the archer''s movement, making it harder for them to reposition. However, be cautious of other enemies like Leeches or Blobs that may be lurking in the water.\n\nCrafting and using a shield is another way to complement your terrain-based strategy. While terrain can block arrows, a shield provides an additional layer of protection. Equip a strong shield like the Iron Buckler or Banded Shield to block incoming arrows when you cannot rely on terrain alone. Pair this with a melee weapon like a sword or mace to quickly close the distance and eliminate the archer once you are in range.\n\nFor new players, it is important to scout the area before engaging Draugr Archers. Use the environment to plan your approach and identify potential cover points. Experienced players can combine terrain usage with advanced tactics like kiting, where you lure the archer into a position where their attacks are ineffective. This is particularly useful when dealing with multiple enemies.\n\nFinally, always be aware of your surroundings. Draugr Archers often spawn in groups, and other enemies like Draugr melee fighters or Skeletons may join the fight. Use the terrain to isolate the archer and deal with them first before focusing on other threats. By mastering these techniques, you can turn the environment into a powerful ally and significantly reduce the danger posed by Draugr Archers.\n\nPractical Tip: Always carry healing items like Cooked Meat or Honey when venturing into the Swamp. The combination of terrain-based tactics and proper healing will ensure you survive even the toughest encounters with Draugr Archers.