What is the purpose of the hoe tool when building a shelter?

The hoe is one of the most essential tools in Valheim when building your first shelter, as it allows you to shape and level the terrain to create a stable foundation for your structures. Unlike other tools, the hoe doesn''t require a workbench to craft, making it accessible early in the game. To craft a hoe, you need 5 wood and 2 stone, which are readily available in the Meadows biome, the starting area for most players. Once crafted, the hoe becomes indispensable for preparing the ground for your shelter, ensuring it is flat and even, which is critical for building stability.\n\nUsing the hoe involves a simple but powerful mechanic: it allows you to raise or level the ground within a small radius. To level the ground, equip the hoe and right-click to open the secondary action menu. Select the ''Level Ground'' option, then left-click on the area you want to flatten. This is particularly useful when building on uneven terrain, such as hills or slopes, which are common in the Meadows and Black Forest biomes. By leveling the ground, you can create a flat surface for your shelter''s foundation, preventing structural issues like uneven walls or collapsing roofs.\n\nAnother key function of the hoe is the ''Raise Ground'' option, which allows you to elevate terrain. This is useful for creating raised platforms or defensive walls around your shelter. For example, if you''re building in a biome with frequent enemy spawns, such as the Black Forest, you can use the hoe to raise the ground around your shelter, creating a natural barrier against trolls or greydwarves. To raise ground, select the ''Raise Ground'' option in the hoe''s secondary menu and left-click on the desired area. Keep in mind that raising ground requires stone, so gather plenty of this resource before starting your project.\n\nOne common challenge players face when building their first shelter is dealing with waterlogged or swampy areas. The hoe can help mitigate this issue by raising the ground above water levels, ensuring your shelter stays dry and functional. For instance, if you''re building near a river or in the Swamp biome, use the hoe to create a raised foundation. This not only prevents water from flooding your shelter but also provides a strategic advantage by making it harder for enemies to reach you.\n\nIn addition to its primary functions, the hoe can be used creatively to enhance your shelter''s design. For example, you can use it to create terraced gardens for farming or decorative pathways around your base. The hoe''s versatility makes it a valuable tool for both practical and aesthetic purposes. However, be mindful of its limitations: the hoe cannot remove terrain, so plan your builds carefully to avoid wasting resources.\n\nTo maximize the hoe''s effectiveness, always carry extra stone and wood when working on large projects. Stone is particularly important for raising ground, as each action consumes one stone. If you run out of stone, you''ll need to gather more from nearby rocks or mine it in the Black Forest biome. Additionally, consider using the hoe in combination with other tools, such as the hammer and workbench, to streamline your building process. For example, level the ground first, then use the hammer to place walls and roofs on the flat surface.\n\nIn summary, the hoe is a vital tool for building your first shelter in Valheim. Its ability to level and raise terrain ensures a stable foundation, while its creative applications allow for unique and functional designs. By mastering the hoe''s mechanics and planning your builds carefully, you can create a shelter that is both secure and visually appealing, setting the stage for your survival and success in the world of Valheim.