How do you unlock the adze for advanced workbench upgrades?

Unlocking the adze in Valheim is a crucial step for advancing your workbench upgrades, allowing you to craft higher-tier items and structures. The adze is a crafting station upgrade that requires specific materials and progression through the game. To unlock it, you must first defeat the second boss, The Elder, in the Black Forest biome. This boss drops a key item called the Swamp Key, which grants access to the Swamp biome, where you can find the necessary resources for the adze.\n\nOnce you have the Swamp Key, venture into the Swamp biome to locate Sunken Crypts. These crypts are dungeon-like structures filled with enemies and valuable resources. Inside, you will find Muddy Scrap Piles, which can be mined with a Bronze Pickaxe or better. Mining these piles yields Scrap Iron, a critical resource for crafting the adze. You will need at least 10 Scrap Iron to proceed.\n\nAfter gathering Scrap Iron, return to your base and smelt it in a Blast Furnace. The Blast Furnace requires Artisan Table access, which is unlocked after defeating Moder, the fourth boss. Smelting Scrap Iron produces Iron, which is used to craft the adze. You will also need Fine Wood and Core Wood, which can be obtained by chopping down Birch and Pine trees in the Meadows and Black Forest biomes, respectively.\n\nWith the required materials in hand, craft the adze at your workbench. The adze itself does not require a specific crafting station but must be placed near your workbench to enable advanced upgrades. Once placed, it unlocks new crafting options, including reinforced structures and higher-tier tools. This upgrade is essential for progressing to the Plains biome and tackling more challenging content.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. These crypts are often hidden among dense trees and waterlogged terrain, making them difficult to spot. To overcome this, use a boat to explore the coastline of the Swamp biome, as crypts are frequently found near water. Additionally, bring Poison Resistance Mead to counteract the Swamp''s toxic environment, which can quickly drain your health.\n\nAnother tip is to prepare thoroughly before entering the Swamp biome. Equip yourself with upgraded Bronze or Iron armor, a strong weapon like the Iron Mace, and plenty of healing items. The Swamp is home to dangerous enemies like Draugr and Blobs, so being well-prepared will save you from unnecessary deaths and resource loss.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the adze involves defeating The Elder, exploring the Swamp biome for Scrap Iron, and crafting the adze with Iron, Fine Wood, and Core Wood. This upgrade is a significant milestone in Valheim, enabling advanced crafting and preparing you for the challenges of the Plains biome. By following these steps and preparing adequately, you can efficiently progress through the game and enhance your Viking survival experience.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal with you when exploring new biomes to ensure a quick return to your base. Additionally, mark Sunken Crypts on your map to streamline future resource-gathering trips. Finally, consider building a small outpost near the Swamp biome to store resources and craft essential items on the go.