What is the fastest way to gather wood for your first shelter in Valheim?

Gathering wood quickly for your first shelter in Valheim is essential for survival, especially during the early game when resources are scarce and threats like Greylings and the cold are ever-present. The fastest way to gather wood is by using a Flint Axe, which is the first tool you can craft to efficiently chop down trees. To get started, you’ll need to gather basic materials like flint, wood, and stone, which are found in the Meadows biome, the safest starting area for new players.\n\nFirst, collect wood by punching small trees or picking up branches scattered on the ground. This will give you enough wood to craft a Workbench, which is required to make tools like the Flint Axe. Once you have a Workbench, gather flint from the shores of rivers or lakes in the Meadows biome. Flint is a grayish stone that glimmers slightly, making it easy to spot. Combine 1 flint, 4 wood, and 2 stone at the Workbench to craft your Flint Axe.\n\nWith the Flint Axe equipped, you can now chop down trees much faster than punching them. Focus on Birch and Oak trees, as they yield more wood compared to smaller trees. Be cautious when chopping trees, as they can fall unpredictably and damage or kill you if you’re not careful. Always position yourself to the side of the tree and have an escape route ready. Once a tree falls, it will break into smaller logs that can be harvested for wood.\n\nIf you’re struggling to find flint, you can temporarily use a Stone Axe, which requires only 5 wood and 4 stone. While it’s less efficient than the Flint Axe, it’s a good backup option. Additionally, you can gather wood faster by using the environment to your advantage. For example, rolling boulders or pushing trees into each other can cause them to fall and break, saving you time and effort.\n\nTo maximize your wood-gathering efficiency, consider building a small storage area near your Workbench. This allows you to drop off wood quickly and continue gathering without wasting time running back and forth. If you’re playing with friends, divide tasks—one person can gather wood while another collects stone or food, speeding up the process significantly.\n\nFinally, remember that wood is a renewable resource. Trees respawn over time, so don’t worry about running out. However, avoid overharvesting in one area to maintain a steady supply. By following these steps, you’ll have enough wood to build your first shelter, complete with walls, a roof, and a fire to keep you warm and safe from the dangers of Valheim.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a backup weapon like a club in case you encounter enemies while gathering wood. If you’re low on stamina, eat food like berries or mushrooms to replenish it quickly. Lastly, consider building your shelter near a water source for easy access to flint and other resources.