What’s the best way to farm black metal for advanced upgrades?

Farming black metal in Valheim is essential for advanced upgrades, especially for crafting high-tier weapons, armor, and tools. Black metal is a late-game resource primarily obtained from Fuling enemies in the Plains biome. To efficiently farm black metal, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the mechanics, and follow a strategic approach.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains biome. This biome is dangerous, with powerful enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with padded armor or wolf armor for maximum protection, and bring a strong weapon like a black metal sword or atgeir. Additionally, stock up on healing meads, stamina meads, and food that boosts health and stamina, such as serpent stew, lox meat pie, and bread.\n\nTo farm black metal, you must defeat Fulings, which are goblin-like creatures found in Fuling villages or roaming the Plains. Fulings drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal at a blast furnace. Fuling Berserkers and Fuling Shamans also drop black metal scraps, but they are tougher to defeat. Focus on smaller groups of Fulings first to avoid being overwhelmed.\n\nOne effective strategy is to raid Fuling villages at night. Fulings sleep at night, making it easier to pick them off one by one. Use a bow to take out sentries silently, then move in with melee weapons to clear the village. Be cautious of Fuling Shamans, as they can heal other Fulings and summon fire attacks. Prioritize killing them first.\n\nAnother method is to lure Fulings into traps or use the environment to your advantage. For example, you can dig trenches around Fuling camps to funnel enemies into a narrow area, making them easier to handle. Alternatively, use the terrain to create choke points or kite enemies into Lox herds, which will attack the Fulings for you.\n\nOnce you have collected black metal scraps, return to your base and smelt them in a blast furnace. The blast furnace requires 20 fine wood, 10 iron, 5 surtling cores, and 5 chains to craft. Chains can be obtained from Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by breaking down iron gates in Sunken Crypts. Smelt the scraps into black metal bars, which are used for crafting advanced gear.\n\nA common challenge is dealing with Deathsquitos while farming black metal. These fast, aggressive insects can deal significant damage if you are not careful. Always keep your shield ready and listen for their buzzing sound. A well-timed block or arrow shot can take them down quickly.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to progress through the game’s biomes in order. Do not attempt to farm black metal until you have defeated Moder, the fourth boss, and unlocked the ability to craft padded armor and black metal weapons. Experienced players can optimize their farming routes by marking Fuling villages on the map and revisiting them after a few in-game days, as enemies respawn.\n\nIn summary, farming black metal requires preparation, strategy, and caution. Equip yourself with the best gear, use the environment to your advantage, and focus on efficient enemy takedowns. With persistence, you’ll gather enough black metal to craft powerful upgrades and dominate the Plains biome.\n\nPractical tip: Always carry a portal with you when farming in the Plains. This allows you to quickly return to your base to repair gear or store loot without risking a long journey back.