What’s the fastest way to gather tar for building in the Plains?

Gathering tar in Valheim is essential for advanced building projects, especially in the Plains biome. Tar is a valuable resource used to craft darkwood building pieces, which are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. To gather tar quickly, you need to locate Tar Pits in the Plains biome, which are large, bubbling black pools surrounded by hostile Growths. These Growths are fast, ranged enemies that can deal significant damage, so preparation is key.\n\nBefore heading to the Plains, ensure you have the right gear and tools. You will need a pickaxe to mine tar from the Tar Pits, as well as strong armor and weapons to fend off Growths and other Plains enemies like Fulings and Deathsquitos. Ideally, wear Wolf Armor or better, and bring a shield and a melee weapon like a Blackmetal Sword or Frostner. Additionally, carry a bow and arrows to deal with ranged threats. Stamina management is crucial, so bring plenty of food like Serpent Stew, Lox Meat Pie, and Blood Pudding.\n\nTo locate Tar Pits, explore the Plains biome thoroughly. Tar Pits are large, dark pools with bubbling black tar, often surrounded by Growths. They are easier to spot during the day, so avoid nighttime exploration if possible. Once you find a Tar Pit, clear the area of enemies before mining. Use your pickaxe to extract tar from the edges of the pit. Each swing will yield 4-6 tar, and a single pit can provide hundreds of tar if fully mined.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with Growths, which spawn near Tar Pits. These enemies are fast and deal poison damage, making them dangerous if you’re unprepared. To counter them, use a bow to take them out from a distance or a melee weapon with high stagger potential. If you’re overwhelmed, retreat to a safe distance and heal before re-engaging. Building a small outpost nearby with a portal can help you respawn quickly if you die.\n\nAnother strategy is to use the terrain to your advantage. Tar Pits are often located in low-lying areas, so position yourself on higher ground to gain a tactical advantage over enemies. You can also dig trenches around the pit to funnel enemies into a single path, making them easier to manage. If you’re playing with friends, coordinate roles—one person can mine tar while the others defend against enemies.\n\nOnce you’ve gathered enough tar, transport it back to your base using a cart or portal. Tar is heavy, so avoid carrying too much at once unless you have a cart. If you’re far from your base, consider setting up a temporary storage chest near the Tar Pit to store excess tar before transporting it. This minimizes the risk of losing resources if you die.\n\nIn summary, the fastest way to gather tar in the Plains involves preparation, efficient mining, and strategic combat. Equip yourself with strong gear, clear the area of enemies, and use terrain to your advantage. With these tips, you’ll be able to gather tar quickly and safely for your building projects.