How do I build a portal network to save time traveling?

Building a portal network in Valheim is one of the most efficient ways to save time traveling across the vast world. Portals allow you to instantly teleport between two connected points, bypassing long journeys by foot or boat. To create a portal network, you need to understand the game mechanics, gather the required resources, and strategically place portals in key locations.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the portal recipe by obtaining Surtling Cores. These are found in Burial Chambers in the Black Forest biome or by defeating Surtlings in the Ashlands. You need at least 10 Surtling Cores to craft a portal, as each portal requires 2 cores, and you’ll need multiple portals for a network. Additionally, you’ll need Fine Wood (20 per portal) and Greydwarf Eyes (10 per portal), which are easily obtained by chopping birch trees and defeating Greydwarves.\n\nOnce you have the materials, craft a portal at your base using the Hammer and the Crafting tab. Place the portal in a secure location, preferably indoors or near your crafting stations. To connect two portals, you must assign them the same tag. Interact with the portal and enter a unique name (e.g., ''Forest'' or ''Swamp''). The tag is case-sensitive, so ensure both portals have identical names. If done correctly, stepping into one portal will instantly transport you to the other.\n\nTo build a network, create multiple portals at your base, each with a unique tag. For example, you might have one portal labeled ''Swamp'' for accessing swamp biomes and another labeled ''Mountain'' for mountain biomes. When exploring, carry portal materials (Fine Wood, Surtling Cores, and Greydwarf Eyes) to set up a temporary portal in new areas. This allows you to quickly return to your base for repairs, rest, or resource storage.\n\nA common challenge is running out of Surtling Cores early in the game. To overcome this, prioritize exploring Burial Chambers in the Black Forest. These dungeons often contain multiple Surtling Cores, and clearing them early will provide enough resources for your first few portals. Another challenge is forgetting to rename portals, which can lead to confusion. Always double-check the tag before stepping through a portal to avoid accidental teleportation to the wrong location.\n\nFor experienced players, consider building a central hub with multiple portals labeled for specific biomes or purposes. For example, you might have a portal labeled ''Boss1'' for the first boss, ''SwampIron'' for swamp mining, and ''PlainsFarm'' for farming in the Plains biome. This organization saves time and ensures you always have quick access to critical areas.\n\nFinally, remember that portals cannot transport certain items, such as metals (e.g., Copper, Iron, Silver). To move these resources, you’ll need to transport them manually using carts or boats. Plan your portal network accordingly, placing portals near resource-rich areas and crafting stations to minimize travel time.\n\nIn summary, building a portal network in Valheim requires careful planning, resource gathering, and strategic placement. By following these steps and addressing common challenges, you can create an efficient system that saves time and enhances your survival experience.