How do I build a fire indoors to avoid rain extinguishing it?
Building a fire indoors in Valheim is essential for staying warm, cooking food, and resting, especially during rainy weather. Rain can extinguish outdoor fires, making it crucial to protect your fire source. To build a fire indoors, you need to understand the game mechanics and follow specific steps to ensure your fire remains lit and functional.\n\nFirst, you must craft a fire source. The most basic fire is the Campfire, which requires 5 Stone and 2 Wood. You can also upgrade to a Hearth or a Bonfire later in the game, but the Campfire is sufficient for early-game needs. To place a fire indoors, you need to ensure the structure has proper ventilation. Fires require open space above them to function, so you must leave a hole in the roof or use a chimney-like structure.\n\nTo build a fire indoors, start by constructing a small shelter or expanding an existing one. Use Wood or Core Wood to build walls and a roof. Leave a 1x1 or 2x2 gap in the roof directly above where you plan to place the fire. This gap allows smoke to escape, preventing the fire from being smothered. If you don’t leave enough space, the fire will emit smoke that fills the room, causing the "Smoke Poisoning" debuff, which drains your health over time.\n\nOnce the structure is ready, place the Campfire on the ground inside the shelter. Ensure it is not too close to walls or other flammable objects, as fires can spread and destroy your base. After placing the fire, check the smoke flow. If smoke is escaping through the roof gap, your fire is safe to use. If smoke accumulates inside, adjust the roof or expand the ventilation area.\n\nA common challenge is dealing with rain entering through the roof gap. To solve this, you can build a small chimney using angled roof pieces. Place the roof pieces above the gap, leaving enough space for smoke to escape while blocking rain. This design keeps your fire dry and functional even during storms. Alternatively, you can build a larger structure with a central fire pit and multiple ventilation points to distribute smoke more effectively.\n\nIn the Meadows biome, where most players start, building a simple wooden shelter with a Campfire is sufficient. However, in harsher biomes like the Mountains or Plains, you may need sturdier materials like Stone or Black Marble to protect your fire from environmental hazards. For example, in the Mountains, freezing temperatures make indoor fires critical for survival, so ensure your shelter is well-insulated and the fire is properly ventilated.\n\nFor advanced players, consider upgrading to a Hearth, which requires 15 Stone and 10 Wood. The Hearth provides more heat and can cook multiple food items simultaneously, making it ideal for larger bases. Additionally, you can use the Bonfire for decorative purposes or to create a central gathering point in your village. Both options require more resources and space but offer greater functionality.\n\nFinally, always keep extra Wood or Resin on hand to refuel your fire. Fires consume fuel over time, and running out can leave you vulnerable to cold or hunger. By following these steps and understanding the mechanics, you can build a reliable indoor fire that withstands rain and keeps you safe in any biome.\n\nPractical tips: Use the Hoe to level the ground before placing your fire for a stable base. Experiment with different roof designs to find the best ventilation solution for your base. Always test your fire setup before relying on it during harsh weather conditions.