How can you use portals to minimize risk during exploration?

Portals are one of the most powerful tools in Valheim for minimizing risk during exploration, especially in a no-death run. They allow you to quickly travel between two points, ensuring you can retreat to safety or resupply without risking long, dangerous journeys. To use portals effectively, you must first craft them using Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores. These materials are relatively easy to obtain early in the game, making portals accessible even for new players.\n\nTo set up a portal, you need to place two portal structures and assign them the same tag. For example, if you name one portal ''Base'' and the other ''Exploration,'' they will connect, allowing instant travel between them. Always carry portal materials with you when exploring new biomes. This way, you can quickly establish a connection back to your base if you encounter danger or need to recover resources.\n\nWhen exploring dangerous biomes like the Swamp or Mountains, place a portal near the edge of the biome before venturing deeper. This ensures you have a quick escape route if you encounter enemies like Draugr, Wraiths, or Wolves. For example, in the Swamp, place a portal on a nearby Black Forest or Meadows border to avoid being overwhelmed by enemies while setting it up. In the Mountains, place a portal at the base of the mountain to avoid freezing or falling damage while climbing.\n\nAnother key strategy is to use portals to manage inventory and resupply. If you''re exploring a new area and your inventory fills up, you can quickly portal back to your base to drop off valuable items like ore, wood, or trophies. This prevents you from losing progress if you die, as your inventory will be safely stored at home. However, note that portals cannot transport metals like Copper, Tin, or Iron, so plan your trips accordingly.\n\nFor experienced players, consider setting up a network of portals in key locations across the map. For example, place portals near boss altars, resource-rich areas, or biome transitions. This allows you to quickly move between important locations without risking long overland journeys. Always carry a hammer and portal materials in your inventory to repair or build new portals as needed.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If your portal is destroyed by enemies or environmental hazards, you may find yourself stranded. To mitigate this, carry materials for a workbench and a spare portal. This way, you can rebuild a portal even in the most remote locations. Additionally, mark portal locations on your map to avoid losing track of them during exploration.\n\nIn summary, portals are essential for minimizing risk in a no-death run. Use them to create safe escape routes, manage inventory, and establish a network of fast travel points. By planning ahead and carrying the necessary materials, you can explore even the most dangerous biomes with confidence.