What’s the most efficient way to plan a base near a river or ocean?

Planning a base near a river or ocean in Valheim requires careful consideration of game mechanics, resource availability, and defense strategies. Rivers and oceans are valuable locations due to their proximity to water, which is essential for fishing, transportation, and access to unique resources like Chitin and Leviathans. However, building near water also presents challenges such as flooding, enemy raids, and limited space. To create an efficient base, follow these steps.\n\nFirst, scout the area thoroughly. Look for a flat or gently sloping shoreline to minimize the need for extensive terraforming. Use the Hoe tool to level the ground and create a stable foundation. Avoid building too close to the water’s edge to prevent flooding during storms or high tides. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 5-10 meters of buffer space between your structures and the water.\n\nNext, consider the biome surrounding the river or ocean. Meadows biomes are ideal for beginners due to their low enemy threat and abundant resources. Black Forest biomes offer more advanced resources like Copper and Tin but come with increased danger from Greydwarfs and Trolls. Plains biomes are high-risk, high-reward areas with access to endgame materials like Black Metal but are populated by deadly Fulings and Deathsquitos. Choose a biome that matches your skill level and progression.\n\nWhen designing your base, prioritize functionality and defense. Build a perimeter wall using Wood or Stone to protect against enemy raids. Include a dock for your Karve or Longship to facilitate exploration and resource gathering. Use the Hammer tool to construct a Workbench and Forge near the water for crafting and repairing boats. Place Chests near the dock to store fishing gear, bait, and other water-related items.\n\nFishing is a key activity near rivers and oceans. Craft a Fishing Rod using 8 Wood and 4 Leather Scraps, and gather bait from digging up worms with a Cultivator. Fish can be cooked for food or used in recipes like Fish Wraps, which provide valuable stamina boosts. Place a Cooking Station near your dock for convenience.\n\nTransportation is another advantage of building near water. Rivers and oceans allow for faster travel using boats, which are essential for exploring distant biomes and transporting heavy resources like Metal Ores. Build a portal near your dock to connect your base to other locations, ensuring quick access to resources and safe havens.\n\nFinally, prepare for environmental challenges. Storms can cause waves to flood low-lying areas, so elevate your structures using the Hoe or raise the ground with the Raise Ground feature. Use Stone or Core Wood for more durable building materials, especially in areas prone to enemy attacks. Regularly repair your structures to maintain their integrity.\n\nIn summary, planning a base near a river or ocean in Valheim involves careful location scouting, biome selection, and strategic design. Prioritize defense, resource accessibility, and transportation to create a functional and efficient base. By following these steps, you can maximize the benefits of water proximity while minimizing risks.\n\nPractical Tips: Use the Hoe to level and raise ground for a stable foundation. Build a perimeter wall for defense and include a dock for boats. Elevate structures to avoid flooding during storms. Place a portal near your dock for quick travel. Regularly repair structures to maintain durability.