What are the best ways to farm black metal for advanced building projects?

Farming black metal in Valheim is essential for advanced building projects, as it is one of the strongest materials in the game. 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 bars at a blast furnace. To efficiently farm black metal, you need to prepare for combat, explore the Plains biome, and optimize your resource gathering.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. This biome is dangerous, with powerful enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with padded armor or better, a strong shield, and a high-tier weapon like a black metal sword or atgeir. Bring healing meads, stamina potions, and food that boosts health and stamina, such as serpent stew, lox meat pie, and bread. A fully upgraded bow with needle arrows is also recommended for dealing with Deathsquitos from a distance.\n\nNext, locate Fuling camps in the Plains biome. These camps are small villages filled with Fulings and sometimes a Fuling Berserker or Shaman. Approach cautiously, as Fulings are aggressive and can overwhelm you if you’re not careful. Use terrain to your advantage, such as high ground or natural barriers, to funnel enemies and fight them one at a time. Clearing a Fuling camp will yield a significant amount of black metal scraps, as well as other valuable resources like coins and barley.\n\nTo maximize your black metal farming, consider setting up a small outpost near a Plains biome. Build a portal to connect your base to the outpost, allowing you to quickly transport resources and restock supplies. A workbench and a blast furnace can also be placed at the outpost to smelt black metal scraps on-site. This saves time and reduces the risk of losing resources during long trips back to your main base.\n\nAnother effective method is to hunt Fulings during nighttime. Fuling patrols spawn more frequently at night, increasing your chances of encountering them. However, be cautious, as nighttime in the Plains is more dangerous due to increased enemy activity. Use a campfire or rested buff to maintain stamina and health during extended farming sessions.\n\nFor players looking to automate the process, consider taming Lox. These massive creatures can be tamed with cloudberries and used to defend your outpost or attack Fuling camps. While Lox are not as efficient as direct combat, they can help clear enemies and provide additional resources like lox meat and pelts.\n\nFinally, always prioritize safety when farming black metal. Avoid engaging large groups of Fulings without a plan, and retreat if necessary. Use the terrain to your advantage, and don’t hesitate to use ranged weapons to thin out enemy numbers before engaging in melee combat. With proper preparation and strategy, you can efficiently farm black metal for your advanced building projects.\n\nIn summary, farming black metal in Valheim requires preparation, exploration, and combat efficiency. Equip yourself with strong gear, locate Fuling camps in the Plains biome, and consider setting up an outpost for convenience. Use terrain and ranged weapons to your advantage, and always prioritize safety. By following these steps, you’ll have a steady supply of black metal for your most ambitious building projects.