How do I track which biomes I’ve built outposts in?

Tracking which biomes you’ve built outposts in is an essential part of organizing your exploration and resource management in Valheim. The game does not provide an in-built system to mark biomes directly, but you can use a combination of in-game tools and strategies to keep track of your progress. The most effective method involves using the map, crafting markers, and maintaining a consistent naming system for your outposts.\n\nFirst, the map is your primary tool for tracking biomes. As you explore, the map will reveal the biome type of each area you visit. To mark an outpost, open the map (default key M) and place a custom marker at the location of your outpost. You can do this by right-clicking on the map and selecting a marker icon. Use different icons or colors to represent different types of outposts, such as resource hubs, safe houses, or portals. For example, use a house icon for a base and a portal icon for a teleportation hub.\n\nNext, naming your markers is crucial for clarity. When placing a marker, give it a descriptive name that includes the biome type and the purpose of the outpost. For instance, name a marker ''Black Forest - Copper Mine'' or ''Plains - Wheat Farm.'' This naming convention helps you quickly identify the biome and the outpost’s function without needing to revisit the location. If you’re playing with friends, ensure everyone follows the same naming system to avoid confusion.\n\nAnother useful tool is the crafting of signs. Signs allow you to label structures directly in the game world. To craft a sign, you need 2 wood and 1 coal. Place the sign near your outpost’s entrance or a central area and label it with the biome name and purpose. For example, write ''Meadows - Main Base'' or ''Swamp - Iron Outpost.'' This is especially helpful if you have multiple outposts in the same biome or if you want to leave reminders for yourself or other players.\n\nFor players who prefer a more visual approach, consider building unique structures or landmarks in each biome to help you remember where you’ve established outposts. For example, build a tall tower in the Meadows, a stone fortress in the Black Forest, or a treehouse in the Swamp. These landmarks can serve as visual cues when you’re exploring or revisiting areas.\n\nOne common challenge is forgetting which biomes you’ve fully explored or built in. To avoid this, create a checklist of all biomes in the game: Meadows, Black Forest, Swamp, Mountains, Plains, Mistlands, and Ocean. As you build an outpost in a biome, mark it off your list. You can keep this checklist outside the game, such as in a notebook or a digital document, or use the map markers as a visual checklist.\n\nFinally, consider using portals to connect your outposts. Portals require 20 fine wood, 10 greydwarf eyes, and 2 surtling cores to craft. By naming portals after their biome and purpose, you can easily travel between outposts and keep track of your progress. For example, name a portal ''Meadows Base'' or ''Swamp Iron.'' This not only saves time but also reinforces your tracking system.\n\nIn summary, tracking biomes with outposts in Valheim requires a combination of map markers, naming conventions, signs, and visual landmarks. By using these tools consistently, you can efficiently manage your exploration and resource gathering. Whether you’re a new player or an experienced Viking, these strategies will help you stay organized and focused on your survival goals.