How do you unlock the forge level 8 upgrade?

Unlocking the Forge level 8 upgrade in Valheim is a significant milestone that allows you to craft and upgrade some of the game''s most powerful gear. To achieve this, you must gather specific resources and build advanced crafting stations. The Forge level 8 upgrade requires the addition of a Cooler, a Forge Toolrack, and a Forge Bellows to your existing Forge setup. Each of these items has its own crafting requirements and must be placed near the Forge to increase its level.\n\nFirst, you need to craft a Cooler. The Cooler requires 25 Fine Wood, 10 Iron, and 2 Copper. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. Iron is mined from Muddy Scrap Piles in the Swamp biome, which requires a Swamp Key obtained by defeating the Elder boss. Copper is mined from Copper Deposits in the Black Forest biome. Once you have the materials, craft the Cooler at a Workbench and place it near your Forge.\n\nNext, you need to craft a Forge Toolrack. This item requires 15 Fine Wood and 10 Iron. Fine Wood is gathered as described earlier, and Iron is mined from the Swamp biome. Craft the Forge Toolrack at a Workbench and place it near your Forge. This item not only increases the Forge level but also adds a decorative touch to your crafting area.\n\nFinally, you need to craft a Forge Bellows. The Forge Bellows require 5 Wood, 4 Leather Scraps, and 4 Chain. Wood is easily obtained by chopping down trees in any biome. Leather Scraps are dropped by Boars in the Meadows biome or found in chests. Chains are obtained by defeating Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by looting chests in Sunken Crypts. Craft the Forge Bellows at a Workbench and place it near your Forge.\n\nOnce all three items are placed near your Forge, its level will increase to 8. This allows you to craft and upgrade high-tier items like the Black Metal weapons and armor, which are essential for tackling the game''s toughest challenges. Keep in mind that the Forge must be fully repaired and functional for the upgrades to take effect.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating Iron in the Swamp biome. To make this easier, explore Sunken Crypts, which are marked by green torches and contain Muddy Scrap Piles. Use a Wishbone, obtained by defeating Bonemass, to locate hidden Iron deposits. Additionally, always bring a portal with you to quickly transport resources back to your base.\n\nIn summary, unlocking Forge level 8 requires gathering Fine Wood, Iron, Copper, Leather Scraps, and Chains. Craft and place a Cooler, Forge Toolrack, and Forge Bellows near your Forge to achieve this upgrade. Focus on exploring the Swamp biome for Iron and Chains, and use portals to streamline resource gathering. With a level 8 Forge, you''ll be well-equipped to face Valheim''s most formidable foes.