What is the best shield for surviving the Plains biome''s Fulings?

Surviving the Plains biome in Valheim, especially against the aggressive Fulings, requires a strong shield and proper combat mechanics. The best shield for this challenge is the Black Metal Shield, which offers high block power and durability. To craft it, you will need Black Metal, Fine Wood, and Chains. Black Metal is obtained by defeating Fulings, Fine Wood comes from Birch or Oak trees, and Chains are found in Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome or by defeating Wraiths.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Shield, you must first upgrade your Forge to level 4. This requires a Forge Cooler, Anvils, and a Tool Shelf, which are crafted using materials like Obsidian, Copper, and Iron. Once your Forge is upgraded, you can craft the shield, which provides 90 block power and 10% movement speed reduction. This makes it ideal for absorbing heavy hits from Fulings, who deal significant damage with their melee and ranged attacks.\n\nParrying is a critical mechanic when using the Black Metal Shield. To parry, you must time your block just as an enemy attack lands. Successful parries stagger the enemy, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks. Fulings are fast and aggressive, so mastering parrying is essential. Practice on weaker enemies in the Meadows or Black Forest before taking on the Plains biome. Parrying with the Black Metal Shield can stagger Fulings, allowing you to deal massive damage with a weapon like the Blackmetal Sword or Atgeir.\n\nDodging is another important skill for surviving the Plains. Fulings often attack in groups, and their Berserkers can deal devastating area-of-effect damage. To dodge, press the spacebar while holding a movement key (WASD). This allows you to roll away from attacks, avoiding damage entirely. Dodging is particularly useful when fighting multiple Fulings or when your stamina is low and you cannot block effectively.\n\nA common challenge in the Plains is managing stamina while fighting Fulings. Their attacks are relentless, and blocking or dodging consumes stamina. To mitigate this, always have a supply of stamina-boosting foods like Serpent Stew, Bread, or Lox Meat Pie. These foods provide high stamina regeneration, allowing you to block, parry, and dodge more effectively. Additionally, avoid overcommitting to attacks; focus on landing a few hits after parrying or dodging, then retreat to recover stamina.\n\nAnother practical tip is to use the environment to your advantage. Fulings are vulnerable to fire, so luring them into campfires or using fire arrows can weaken them. However, be cautious of their ranged attacks, as Fuling Shamans can cast fireballs. Always prioritize taking out Shamans first, as their spells can quickly overwhelm you.\n\nIn summary, the Black Metal Shield is the best shield for surviving the Plains biome due to its high block power and durability. Combine it with parrying, dodging, and stamina management to effectively counter Fulings. Practice these mechanics in safer biomes, and always prepare with high-quality food and upgraded gear. With the right strategy, you can conquer the Plains and emerge victorious against its formidable foes.