How do I build a defensive wall to protect my base from raids?

Building a defensive wall in Valheim is essential to protect your base from raids by hostile creatures like Greydwarfs, Trolls, and Fulings. The first step is to gather the necessary materials, primarily wood, stone, and core wood, depending on the type of wall you want to build. For early-game players, wooden walls are the most accessible, requiring only wood, which can be obtained by chopping down trees in the Meadows biome. For stronger defenses, upgrade to stone walls later in the game, which require stone gathered from mining rocks or quarrying boulders.\n\nTo start building, equip your hammer and open the build menu. Select the wall type you want to construct, such as the basic wooden wall or the sturdier core wood wall. Place the wall segments by clicking where you want them to go, ensuring they connect seamlessly to form a continuous barrier. For maximum protection, build walls at least two segments high to prevent enemies from jumping over them. You can also add a roof or overhang to deter flying enemies like Drakes.\n\nOne common challenge is ensuring your walls are sturdy enough to withstand attacks from Trolls, who can deal massive damage to wooden structures. To counter this, consider building a moat or trench around your base. Digging a trench with a pickaxe creates a natural barrier that enemies cannot cross, forcing them to path around it. Combine this with a raised earth wall using the hoe to create an even more formidable defense. This method is particularly effective in the Black Forest biome, where Troll raids are frequent.\n\nFor late-game players, stone walls are the best option for defense. Stone walls require stone and can be crafted once you unlock the stonecutter, which becomes available after defeating the second boss, The Elder. Stone walls are highly durable and resistant to most enemy attacks, making them ideal for protecting your base in biomes like the Plains, where Fuling raids are a constant threat. Additionally, you can reinforce your walls with iron gates or spikes for added security.\n\nAnother practical tip is to incorporate defensive structures like watchtowers or archer platforms into your walls. These allow you to spot incoming enemies early and provide a vantage point for ranged attacks. Place workbenches or other crafting stations inside your walls to prevent enemy spawns within your base. Finally, always repair your walls after raids, as damaged walls are more vulnerable to future attacks.\n\nIn summary, building a defensive wall in Valheim requires careful planning and resource management. Start with wooden walls in the early game, upgrade to stone walls as you progress, and consider adding moats, trenches, or raised earth walls for extra protection. Incorporate defensive structures and repair your walls regularly to maintain their strength. With these strategies, your base will be well-protected against even the toughest raids.