What are the benefits of using a Tower Shield versus a Round Shield?

In Valheim, choosing between a Tower Shield and a Round Shield depends on your playstyle and the challenges you face. Tower Shields are large, heavy shields that excel at blocking incoming damage but lack the ability to parry. Round Shields, on the other hand, are lighter and allow for parrying, making them more versatile in combat. Understanding the mechanics and benefits of each will help you decide which shield suits your needs.\n\nTower Shields are ideal for players who prefer a defensive playstyle. These shields have a high block armor value, meaning they can absorb significant damage without breaking. For example, the Iron Tower Shield, crafted with 10 Iron and 15 Fine Wood, has a block armor of 105, making it one of the best shields for tanking hits from powerful enemies like Trolls or Fulings. However, Tower Shields cannot parry, which limits their ability to stagger enemies and create openings for counterattacks.\n\nRound Shields, such as the Bronze Buckler or the Black Metal Shield, are lighter and allow for parrying. Parrying is a game mechanic where you time your block just before an enemy attack lands, staggering them and leaving them vulnerable to a critical hit. For instance, the Black Metal Shield, crafted with 10 Fine Wood, 8 Black Metal, and 5 Chain, has a parry bonus of 2.5x, making it highly effective against fast enemies like Draugr or Wolves. This makes Round Shields a better choice for aggressive players who rely on timing and precision.\n\nWhen deciding between the two, consider the biome and enemies you are facing. In the Black Forest, where Trolls deal heavy damage, a Tower Shield can help you survive their powerful swings. In contrast, in the Plains biome, where Fulings attack quickly and in groups, a Round Shield''s parry ability can help you control the battlefield and take down enemies efficiently. Additionally, Tower Shields require more stamina to block, so managing your stamina is crucial when using them.\n\nCrafting requirements also play a role in your decision. Tower Shields like the Iron Tower Shield require significant resources, making them harder to obtain early in the game. Round Shields, such as the Bronze Buckler, are more accessible and can be crafted earlier, providing a solid defensive option for new players. As you progress, upgrading to higher-tier shields like the Black Metal Shield will enhance your combat effectiveness.\n\nPractical tips for using shields include practicing your timing for parrying with Round Shields and positioning yourself to block effectively with Tower Shields. For example, when fighting a Troll, use a Tower Shield to absorb its attacks while staying close to avoid its area-of-effect damage. Against Fulings, use a Round Shield to parry their strikes and follow up with a powerful weapon like the Blackmetal Sword or Atgeir.\n\nIn summary, Tower Shields are best for players who prioritize defense and can manage their stamina, while Round Shields are ideal for those who prefer a more aggressive, timing-based playstyle. Consider your biome, enemies, and crafting resources when choosing a shield, and practice using both to determine which suits your combat preferences.