What is the best way to gather stone for crafting a stone pillar?

Gathering stone for crafting a stone pillar in Valheim requires a strategic approach, as stone is one of the most essential resources in the game. Stone pillars are used for building sturdy structures, and acquiring enough stone efficiently is key to progressing in the game. The best way to gather stone involves understanding the game mechanics, knowing where to find stone, and using the right tools and techniques.\n\nFirst, you need to ensure you have the proper tools for gathering stone. A pickaxe is the most effective tool for mining stone, and you can craft one early in the game. To make a basic pickaxe, you need 10 wood and 1 hard antler, which is obtained by defeating the first boss, Eikthyr. Once you have a pickaxe, you can start mining stone from large boulders found in the Meadows biome, which is the starting area for most players.\n\nStone is abundant in the Meadows biome, but it can also be found in other biomes like the Black Forest and Mountains. In the Meadows, look for large, gray boulders scattered across the landscape. These boulders yield a significant amount of stone when mined. Simply equip your pickaxe and attack the boulder until it breaks, dropping stone pieces. Each boulder typically provides 15-20 stone, making it a reliable source for early-game needs.\n\nIf you’re looking for a more efficient way to gather stone, consider exploring the Black Forest biome. This biome is home to larger stone formations and copper deposits, which also yield stone when mined. However, the Black Forest is more dangerous, with enemies like Greydwarfs and Trolls. Make sure to bring proper weapons, armor, and food to survive encounters while mining. The stone yield in the Black Forest is higher, making it worth the risk for experienced players.\n\nAnother effective method for gathering stone is by destroying structures in abandoned villages or ruins. These structures are often made of stone and can be dismantled using a pickaxe or hammer. This method is particularly useful if you’re low on stamina or don’t want to venture far from your base. However, be cautious of enemies that may spawn near these structures.\n\nFor late-game players, the Mountains biome offers the most efficient way to gather stone. Silver deposits and large stone formations in this biome yield massive amounts of stone. However, the Mountains are extremely dangerous, with freezing temperatures and powerful enemies like Wolves and Drakes. To survive, you’ll need frost resistance mead, warm clothing, and strong weapons. If you’re prepared, the Mountains can provide hundreds of stone in a single trip.\n\nTo maximize your stone gathering efficiency, always carry a cart or portal materials with you. A cart allows you to transport large amounts of stone back to your base without multiple trips. Alternatively, setting up a portal near your mining location can save time and effort. Portals require 20 fine wood, 10 greydwarf eyes, and 2 surtling cores, so plan accordingly.\n\nFinally, consider using the terrain to your advantage. If you’re mining in hilly or mountainous areas, you can roll boulders down slopes to break them into smaller pieces, which can then be collected. This method saves stamina and speeds up the gathering process. Additionally, always keep an eye out for stone piles on the ground, as these can be picked up without any tools.\n\nIn summary, the best way to gather stone for crafting a stone pillar depends on your progression in the game. Early-game players should focus on mining boulders in the Meadows biome, while mid-game players can explore the Black Forest for larger yields. Late-game players will find the Mountains biome to be the most efficient source of stone. Always use a pickaxe, bring a cart or portal for transportation, and be prepared for enemies in more dangerous biomes. With these tips, you’ll have plenty of stone for all your building needs.