How do I use a raft to escape a troll attack near water?

Using a raft to escape a troll attack near water in Valheim is a practical survival strategy, especially for new players who may not yet have strong weapons or armor. Rafts are one of the earliest watercraft you can craft, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to gather in the Meadows biome, making rafts accessible early in the game. Once built, a raft can be a lifesaver when facing powerful enemies like trolls, as it allows you to quickly move across water where they cannot follow.\n\nTo use a raft effectively during a troll attack, you must first ensure it is built and placed near the water. Craft the raft at a Workbench, then deploy it in shallow water by interacting with it in your inventory. Once the raft is in the water, you can board it by pressing E. Trolls are slow in water and cannot swim, so putting distance between yourself and the shore is key. However, be cautious of the raft''s slow speed and limited maneuverability, as trolls can still throw rocks or logs at you if you are too close to the shore.\n\nWhen escaping a troll attack, position yourself on the raft and use the rudder to steer away from the shore. The raft moves faster when sailing with the wind, so check the wind direction by looking at the white arrow on the minimap. If the wind is against you, paddle manually by holding the forward key (W by default). This will be slower but still effective for creating distance. Trolls will eventually lose interest if you move far enough away, but keep an eye on your stamina, as paddling consumes stamina over time.\n\nOne common challenge is the raft''s vulnerability to troll attacks while you are boarding or near the shore. To mitigate this, build the raft in a safe location beforehand and keep it ready for emergencies. If you are caught off guard, try to lure the troll away from the raft before boarding. Use terrain features like trees or rocks to block the troll''s path while you make your way to the raft. Additionally, avoid shallow water where the troll can still reach you with its attacks.\n\nFor experienced players, upgrading to a Karve or Longship is recommended for better speed and durability. However, rafts remain a viable option for early-game escapes. If you are in the Black Forest biome, where trolls are common, always have an escape plan involving water. Rafts can also be used to explore nearby islands or transport resources, making them a versatile tool in your survival arsenal.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to escape a troll attack near water involves crafting the raft, deploying it in shallow water, and steering away from the shore. Pay attention to wind direction and stamina management while paddling. Prepare in advance by building the raft in a safe location and luring the troll away if necessary. While rafts are slow, they are a reliable early-game solution for avoiding dangerous enemies like trolls. As you progress, consider upgrading to faster boats for improved mobility and safety.