How do you unlock the hoe tool for terrain modification?

Unlocking the hoe tool in Valheim is a crucial step for modifying terrain and creating a functional base. The hoe allows you to flatten, raise, or level the ground, making it easier to build structures, farm, or create defensive earthworks. To unlock the hoe, you must first progress through the early stages of the game and gather specific resources.\n\nTo begin, you need to craft a workbench, which is the foundation for most crafting in Valheim. Place the workbench in a safe location, preferably near your initial shelter. Once the workbench is set up, you can craft basic tools like the hammer, which is essential for building structures. However, the hoe requires additional resources and progression.\n\nThe hoe is unlocked by collecting core wood, which is obtained by chopping down pine trees in the Black Forest biome. Pine trees are taller and thicker than regular trees, and they yield core wood when harvested. To access the Black Forest, you must first explore beyond the Meadows biome, where you start the game. Be prepared for tougher enemies like Greydwarfs and skeletons in this biome.\n\nOnce you have gathered at least 5 core wood, return to your workbench. Open the crafting menu and look for the hoe recipe. The hoe requires 5 core wood and 2 stone to craft. Stone is a common resource found by picking up small rocks scattered across the ground or mining larger boulders. With these materials, you can craft the hoe and begin modifying the terrain.\n\nUsing the hoe effectively requires stamina, so ensure you have enough food to replenish it. To flatten or raise the ground, equip the hoe and right-click to open its menu. Select the desired action, such as ''Level Ground'' or ''Raise Ground,'' and left-click to apply it. Experiment with these options to create flat areas for building or raised walls for defense.\n\nA common challenge is managing uneven terrain, especially when building large structures. Use the hoe to level the ground before placing foundations to ensure stability. Additionally, raising ground can create natural barriers against enemies, making your base more secure. For farming, flattening the ground ensures crops grow evenly and efficiently.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the hoe in Valheim involves crafting a workbench, gathering core wood from the Black Forest, and collecting stone. Once crafted, the hoe is a versatile tool for terrain modification, essential for building, farming, and defense. Mastering its use will significantly improve your gameplay experience and help you thrive in the harsh world of Valheim.