What are the best strategies for mining Black Marble in the Plains?

Mining Black Marble in the Plains biome of Valheim is a late-game activity that requires preparation, strategy, and the right tools. Black Marble is a valuable resource used for crafting high-tier building materials, such as the Black Marble tiles and Darkwood structures. To successfully mine Black Marble, you must first locate it in the Plains biome, which is home to dangerous enemies like Fulings and Deathsquitos. This guide will walk you through the best strategies for mining Black Marble efficiently and safely.\n\nBefore venturing into the Plains, ensure you are well-equipped. You will need a Black Metal Pickaxe, as it is the only tool capable of mining Black Marble. Crafting this pickaxe requires Black Metal, which is obtained by defeating Fulings in the Plains. Additionally, bring high-tier armor like Padded Armor or Fenris Armor, and a strong weapon such as a Black Metal Sword or Frostner. Stock up on healing meads, stamina meads, and food that boosts health and stamina, such as Serpent Stew, Lox Meat Pie, and Blood Pudding.\n\nLocating Black Marble is the first step. Black Marble deposits are found in the Plains biome, often near Tar Pits or Fuling Villages. These deposits resemble large, dark stone formations with a smooth, polished appearance. Use your map to mark these locations for easy reference. Be cautious when approaching these areas, as they are often heavily guarded by Fulings and Tar Blobs. Clearing the area of enemies before mining is crucial to avoid interruptions or ambushes.\n\nOnce you have located a Black Marble deposit, begin mining with your Black Metal Pickaxe. Each swing will yield Black Marble, but it also consumes stamina. To maximize efficiency, use stamina-boosting foods and meads. If you encounter Tar Blobs, prioritize eliminating them first, as their tar attacks can slow you down and deal significant damage. Fulings may also attack during mining, so keep your weapon ready and stay alert.\n\nA common challenge when mining Black Marble is managing inventory space. Black Marble is heavy, and your inventory can fill up quickly. To address this, bring a Cart or Longship to transport large quantities of Black Marble back to your base. If you are mining far from your base, consider setting up a temporary outpost with a Portal for quick travel. This allows you to deposit Black Marble and restock supplies without making long trips.\n\nAnother strategy is to mine during the day, as Fulings are more active at night. This reduces the risk of encountering large groups of enemies. Additionally, use the terrain to your advantage. Position yourself on higher ground to gain a tactical advantage over Fulings and Tar Blobs. If you are overwhelmed, retreat to a safe distance and regroup before continuing.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected challenges. Deathsquitos can appear suddenly and deal massive damage, so keep your shield ready to block their attacks. If you die while mining, mark your death location on the map and return with backup gear to retrieve your items. Mining Black Marble is a high-risk, high-reward activity, but with proper preparation and strategy, you can gather this valuable resource efficiently.\n\nIn summary, mining Black Marble in the Plains requires the right tools, careful planning, and a proactive approach to combat. Equip yourself with a Black Metal Pickaxe, high-tier armor, and strong weapons. Locate Black Marble deposits near Tar Pits or Fuling Villages, and clear the area of enemies before mining. Use stamina-boosting foods and meads, and manage your inventory with a Cart or Longship. Mine during the day, use the terrain to your advantage, and always be ready for combat. With these strategies, you can successfully mine Black Marble and unlock advanced building options in Valheim.