What’s the best strategy for sharing and using portals during boss fights?

Sharing and using portals effectively during boss fights in Valheim is a critical strategy for both new and experienced players. Portals allow for quick travel between locations, which is especially useful during boss encounters. To begin, ensure that every player in your team has access to a portal network. This requires crafting portals using 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Each portal must be paired with another by assigning them the same tag, which is done by interacting with the portal and entering a unique name.\n\nBefore engaging a boss, set up a portal near the boss arena but far enough to avoid being destroyed during the fight. For example, when preparing for the Elder boss in the Black Forest, place a portal about 100 meters away from the summoning altar. This ensures quick access to the fight while keeping the portal safe. Additionally, designate a safe base location with a paired portal for respawning players to return quickly. This base should have spare gear, food, and potions to minimize downtime.\n\nDuring the fight, communication is key. Assign one player to manage the portal network, ensuring that respawned teammates can rejoin the battle swiftly. If a player dies, they can use the portal to return to the fight, but they must be cautious not to aggro nearby enemies. For example, in the Swamp biome during the Bonemass fight, players should avoid running into Draugr or Leeches while returning to the arena. To mitigate this, clear the area around the portal before the fight begins.\n\nAnother strategy is to use multiple portals for different purposes. For instance, one portal can lead to a base with crafting stations and storage, while another connects to a nearby resource-rich area. This setup allows players to restock on arrows, repair gear, or gather additional resources mid-fight. For example, during the Moder fight in the Mountains, having a portal to a nearby Frost Cave can provide access to Fenris Hair for crafting Frost Resistance Mead.\n\nCommon challenges include portal destruction or running out of resources. To prevent portal destruction, build a small shelter around it using stone or wood. This protects it from stray projectiles or boss attacks. If resources are low, assign a player to gather materials during the fight while others keep the boss occupied. For example, during the Yagluth fight in the Plains, one player can gather Flax or Barley while others distract the boss.\n\nFinally, always prepare for the unexpected. Carry extra portal materials in your inventory to rebuild a portal if it gets destroyed. This is especially important in biomes like the Mistlands, where visibility is low, and enemies are dangerous. By following these strategies, your team can maximize efficiency and minimize frustration during boss fights.\n\nPractical tips: Always name portals clearly to avoid confusion, keep spare materials in a nearby chest, and assign roles to players for smoother coordination. With proper planning, portals can turn the tide of any boss fight in Valheim.