How do I build a fire indoors without suffocating from smoke?

Building a fire indoors in Valheim is essential for survival, as it provides warmth, light, and the ability to cook food. However, if not done correctly, smoke buildup can suffocate your character and make the space unusable. To avoid this, you need to understand the game''s smoke mechanics and plan your indoor fire setup carefully.\n\nSmoke in Valheim behaves realistically, rising upward and dispersing if it has an exit. If smoke accumulates in an enclosed space, it will eventually fill the room, causing damage to your character. To prevent this, you must ensure that smoke has a way to escape. This can be achieved by creating a chimney or leaving an opening in the roof above the fire.\n\nTo build a fire indoors, start by placing a Campfire or Hearth on the ground. Campfires are the simplest option and require 5 Stone and 2 Wood to craft. Hearth fires are larger and more durable, requiring 15 Stone and 4 Wood. Once placed, the fire will start burning, but you must immediately address the smoke issue. If you''re in a small structure, consider building a chimney by stacking vertical wooden beams or stone walls to guide the smoke upward and out of the building.\n\nFor larger structures, you can create a roof opening directly above the fire. Use thatched or wooden roof pieces to leave a gap, ensuring the smoke can escape. Alternatively, you can build a chimney using angled roof pieces to funnel the smoke out. Be mindful of the fire''s placement—keep it away from walls or furniture to prevent accidental fires and ensure the smoke flows upward smoothly.\n\nIn biomes like the Meadows or Black Forest, where wood and stone are abundant, gathering materials for your fire setup is straightforward. However, in more challenging biomes like the Mountains or Plains, you may need to plan ahead and bring materials with you. Always carry extra Wood and Stone when exploring to ensure you can build a fire when needed.\n\nA common mistake new players make is placing the fire too close to walls or under low ceilings, which traps smoke. To avoid this, ensure the fire is centered in the room and has at least 2-3 meters of vertical clearance. If you''re building in a pre-existing structure, like a ruined tower, you may need to modify the roof or walls to accommodate the fire safely.\n\nFor experienced players, consider upgrading to a Hearth for larger indoor spaces. Hearths produce more heat and light, making them ideal for bigger bases. Additionally, you can use decorative elements like hanging braziers or wall-mounted torches to supplement your lighting needs without relying solely on the fire.\n\nPractical tips for managing indoor fires include regularly checking the smoke flow, especially after adding new structures or furniture. If smoke starts to accumulate, adjust the chimney or roof opening to improve ventilation. Always keep a backup fire outside your base for emergencies, such as during storms when indoor fires may be less reliable.\n\nBy following these steps and understanding the game''s mechanics, you can safely build and maintain an indoor fire in Valheim. This will ensure your survival, comfort, and ability to thrive in the harsh Viking world.