What’s the most efficient way to gather black metal in the Plains?

Gathering black metal in Valheim''s Plains biome is a critical step for progressing to endgame gear and weapons. Black metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains. These enemies drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal bars at a blast furnace. To efficiently gather black metal, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the biome''s dangers, and optimize your farming strategy.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. The biome is one of the most dangerous in Valheim, with deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with high-tier armor, such as padded armor or wolf armor, and bring a strong weapon like a black metal sword or atgeir. A fully upgraded bow with needle arrows is also essential for dealing with Deathsquitos and softening up Fulings from a distance. Additionally, bring healing meads, stamina meads, and a rested buff to maximize your survivability.\n\nTo efficiently farm black metal, focus on Fuling camps. These camps are scattered throughout the Plains and are home to multiple Fulings, including Fuling Berserkers and Shamans. Approach these camps carefully, as they often contain multiple enemies. Use your bow to pick off weaker Fulings from a distance before engaging in melee combat. Fuling Berserkers are particularly dangerous, so prioritize dodging their attacks and countering when they are vulnerable. Fuling Shamans can heal other Fulings, so take them out quickly to prevent prolonged fights.\n\nOne effective strategy is to lure Fulings out of their camps and fight them one at a time. This reduces the risk of being overwhelmed by multiple enemies. Use the terrain to your advantage by positioning yourself on higher ground or behind obstacles to limit their movement. If you have a tamed Lox, you can also use it to help fight Fulings, as they are strong and can tank damage while you deal with the enemies.\n\nAfter defeating Fulings, collect the black metal scraps they drop. These scraps cannot be smelted in a regular furnace; you need a blast furnace, which requires artisan table access and materials like iron, fine wood, and surtling cores. Once you have a blast furnace, smelt the scraps into black metal bars. Each bar requires two scraps, so farming a large number of Fulings is necessary to craft high-tier gear.\n\nA common challenge in the Plains is dealing with Deathsquitos, which can one-shot unprepared players. Always keep an eye out for these fast-moving enemies and use your bow to take them down before they reach you. Additionally, avoid fighting Lox unless necessary, as they are tanky and can deal significant damage. If you do engage a Lox, use hit-and-run tactics or kite them into Fuling camps to let the enemies fight each other.\n\nFor experienced players, consider setting up a small outpost near a Fuling camp to streamline farming. Build a portal for quick travel, a workbench for repairs, and a chest to store your loot. This minimizes downtime and allows you to focus on farming black metal efficiently. You can also use the terrain to create traps or funnel enemies into choke points, making fights more manageable.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to gather black metal in the Plains involves thorough preparation, strategic combat, and optimizing your farming routes. Focus on Fuling camps, use ranged weapons to thin out enemies, and always be aware of the biome''s dangers. With persistence and careful planning, you''ll amass enough black metal to craft powerful endgame gear and dominate Valheim''s challenges.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal for quick escapes, use the rested buff to boost stamina regeneration, and consider farming during the day to avoid nighttime spawns of stronger enemies. If you''re struggling with Fuling Berserkers, use a shield to parry their attacks and counter with a strong melee weapon. Lastly, team up with friends to divide tasks and increase your farming efficiency.