What’s the best way to farm Black Metal for end-game crafting recipes?

Farming Black Metal in Valheim is essential for crafting high-tier end-game gear, such as the Black Metal Sword, Black Metal Atgeir, and Black Metal Shield. Black Metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies found in the Plains biome. These enemies drop Black Metal Scraps, which can be smelted into Black Metal using a Blast Furnace. To maximize your Black Metal farming efficiency, you’ll need to prepare thoroughly and understand the mechanics of the Plains biome.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right gear and tools. The Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim, so you’ll need strong armor, such as Padded Armor, and powerful weapons like the Frostner or Porcupine. Bring a fully upgraded shield to block Fuling attacks, as they deal significant damage. Additionally, carry a bow and arrows for ranged combat, as Fuling Berserkers and Shamans can be deadly up close. Stamina management is crucial, so bring plenty of food like Serpent Stew, Lox Meat Pie, and Blood Pudding to maintain high health and stamina.\n\nNext, locate a Plains biome. These biomes are typically found near other late-game biomes like the Mountains or Mistlands. Once you’ve identified a Plains biome, scout for Fuling villages. These villages are densely populated with Fulings and often contain valuable resources like Flax and Barley. However, they are also heavily guarded, so approach cautiously. Use the terrain to your advantage by luring enemies out one at a time or setting up traps with Workbenches and walls to funnel them into a kill zone.\n\nWhen engaging Fulings, prioritize Shamans and Berserkers. Shamans can heal other Fulings and summon fireballs, while Berserkers deal massive melee damage. Use your bow to take out Shamans from a distance, then focus on Berserkers with melee weapons. Regular Fulings are less dangerous but can overwhelm you in numbers, so keep moving and avoid getting surrounded. After clearing a village, loot the Black Metal Scraps dropped by the Fulings. Each Fuling typically drops 1-2 scraps, with Berserkers dropping more.\n\nTo smelt Black Metal Scraps into Black Metal, you’ll need a Blast Furnace. This requires Artisan Table access, which is unlocked by defeating Moder, the Mountain biome boss. The Blast Furnace recipe requires 20 Fine Wood, 10 Iron, 5 Chain, and 20 Stone. Once built, place the Black Metal Scraps into the Blast Furnace along with Coal to produce Black Metal. Each scrap yields one Black Metal bar, which can then be used for crafting.\n\nA common challenge is the scarcity of Fulings in smaller Plains biomes. If you’re struggling to find enough enemies, consider exploring larger Plains areas or using a Longship to travel to distant islands. Fuling villages are more common in expansive Plains biomes, so don’t limit yourself to a single location. Additionally, Fulings can spawn at night, so consider camping near a Plains biome to maximize your farming opportunities.\n\nFinally, optimize your farming runs by bringing a Cart or Portal setup. A Cart allows you to transport large amounts of Black Metal Scraps back to your base, while a Portal lets you quickly return for repairs or resupplies. Always carry materials for a Workbench and Portal to ensure you can set up a temporary base near your farming location. This minimizes downtime and keeps you safe from unexpected threats.\n\nIn summary, farming Black Metal in Valheim requires preparation, strategy, and efficient resource management. Equip yourself with strong gear, target Fuling villages in the Plains biome, and prioritize dangerous enemies like Shamans and Berserkers. Use a Blast Furnace to smelt your scraps into Black Metal, and optimize your runs with Portals or Carts. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to craft powerful end-game gear and conquer Valheim’s toughest challenges.