Which biome should you prioritize for early-game resource gathering?

In Valheim, prioritizing the right biome for early-game resource gathering is crucial for efficient progression, especially in speedrunning. The Meadows biome is the best starting point for new players and speedrunners alike. This biome is relatively safe, abundant in essential resources, and provides the foundation for crafting basic tools and weapons. By focusing on the Meadows, you can quickly gather materials like wood, stone, and flint, which are necessary for crafting a workbench, tools, and shelter.\n\nTo begin, gather wood by punching or chopping down trees. Wood is essential for crafting a workbench, which unlocks the ability to create basic tools like the stone axe and hammer. Once you have a workbench, craft a stone axe to efficiently gather more wood and clear small trees. Flint, found near water sources in the Meadows, is another critical resource. Use flint to craft a flint axe, flint knife, and flint spear, which are superior to the basic stone tools and will help you defend against early-game threats like Greylings and Boars.\n\nAfter securing basic tools, focus on building a small shelter with a roof, walls, and a fire. This will provide a safe resting area to regain stamina and health. A fire is particularly important because it allows you to cook food, which boosts your health and stamina regeneration. Boars, found in the Meadows, are a reliable source of raw meat and leather scraps. Hunt them using your flint spear or bow, and cook the meat over your fire for a steady food supply.\n\nOnce you have a stable base and basic tools, venture into the Black Forest biome for more advanced resources. However, the Meadows should remain your primary focus early on. The Black Forest is more dangerous, with enemies like Greydwarves and Trolls, so ensure you have adequate weapons and armor before exploring. In the Meadows, you can craft a crude bow and wooden arrows, which are effective for hunting and combat. This preparation will make your transition to the Black Forest smoother and safer.\n\nA common challenge in the early game is managing stamina and health. To address this, always carry cooked food like cooked meat or berries. Berries can be found in the Meadows and provide a quick stamina boost. Additionally, avoid overextending yourself by gathering resources in small, manageable batches. This ensures you can return to your shelter to rest and recover before venturing out again.\n\nIn summary, the Meadows biome is the ideal starting point for early-game resource gathering in Valheim. By focusing on wood, stone, flint, and food, you can quickly establish a strong foundation for progression. Crafting basic tools, building a shelter, and hunting Boars will prepare you for the challenges of the Black Forest and beyond. Prioritize safety, manage your stamina, and gather resources efficiently to maximize your speedrunning potential.