How do I track my progress in finding rare resources like black metal?

Tracking your progress in finding rare resources like black metal in Valheim requires a combination of exploration, preparation, and understanding game mechanics. Black metal is a late-game resource primarily found in the Plains biome, dropped by Fuling enemies. To efficiently track your progress, you need to focus on biome exploration, enemy encounters, and resource management.\n\nFirst, ensure you are adequately prepared before venturing into the Plains biome. This biome is dangerous, with powerful enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with upgraded armor (such as Wolf or Padded armor) and strong weapons (like a Blackmetal Sword or Frostner). Bring healing items like cooked food (e.g., Serpent Stew or Lox Meat Pie) and potions to sustain yourself during battles.\n\nTo track your progress, start by mapping out the Plains biome. Use the in-game map to mark locations where you encounter Fuling camps or villages. These camps are the primary source of black metal, as Fulings drop black metal scraps when defeated. Marking these locations helps you revisit them later for farming. Additionally, look for tar pits in the Plains, as they often have Fulings nearby.\n\nWhen exploring, prioritize Fuling camps over random encounters. Fuling camps are densely populated and provide a higher chance of obtaining black metal scraps. Clear these camps systematically, using ranged weapons like a Draugr Fang bow to thin out enemies before engaging in melee combat. Be cautious of Fuling Berserkers and Shamans, as they are tougher and require strategic approaches.\n\nAnother way to track progress is by monitoring your inventory and crafting goals. Black metal scraps are used to craft powerful weapons and tools, such as the Blackmetal Axe, Blackmetal Sword, and Blackmetal Shield. Keep a tally of how many scraps you have and how many you need for your desired upgrades. This helps you set clear objectives and measure your progress.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that black metal scraps cannot be smelted in a regular Smelter. You need to build a Blast Furnace, which requires Artisan Table access and materials like Stone, Iron, Surtling Cores, and Fine Wood. Ensure you have these resources ready before farming black metal to avoid delays in crafting.\n\nExperienced Vikings can optimize their progress by using portals. Set up a portal near a Plains biome to reduce travel time. This allows you to quickly return to your base for repairs or to drop off resources. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near a Fuling camp for efficient farming.\n\nFinally, use the in-game map and markers to track your exploration. Mark areas you’ve thoroughly searched and those you plan to revisit. This prevents redundant exploration and ensures you cover the biome systematically. Over time, you’ll accumulate enough black metal scraps to craft all the gear you need.\n\nIn summary, tracking your progress in finding black metal involves preparation, strategic exploration, and resource management. Focus on Fuling camps, mark your map, and monitor your inventory to stay on top of your goals. With persistence and careful planning, you’ll master the Plains biome and secure the rare resources you need.