How do I use portals to quickly gather resources from the Swamp?
Portals are one of the most powerful tools in Valheim for efficient resource gathering, especially in dangerous biomes like the Swamp. To use portals effectively, you must first unlock the ability to craft them. This requires defeating the first boss, Eikthyr, to obtain Hard Antlers, which are used to craft the Antler Pickaxe. With this pickaxe, you can mine Tin and Copper in the Black Forest to create Bronze, which is required to craft the Forge. Once you have a Forge, you can craft the Portal using 20 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 10 Greydwarf Eyes.\n\nTo set up a portal network for Swamp resource gathering, you need to establish two portals: one at your base and one near the Swamp biome. First, build a portal at your base and name it using the portal tag system (e.g., Swamp1). Then, carry the materials for a second portal (20 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 10 Greydwarf Eyes) with you as you venture into the Swamp. Once you find a safe spot near the Swamp, place the second portal and name it the same as the one at your base (e.g., Swamp1). This will link the two portals, allowing instant travel between them.\n\nWhen gathering resources in the Swamp, prioritize Iron Scrap, which is found in Muddy Scrap Piles. These piles are located in Sunken Crypts, which are scattered throughout the Swamp. To enter a Sunken Crypt, you need a Swamp Key, which is dropped by the second boss, The Elder. Once inside, use your Antler Pickaxe or better to mine the Muddy Scrap Piles for Iron Scrap. Be cautious of enemies like Draugr and Blobs, as they can quickly overwhelm you. Always bring a shield, a weapon like a Bronze Mace, and healing items like Cooked Meat or Honey.\n\nA common challenge when using portals in the Swamp is the inability to transport certain resources, such as metals (e.g., Iron, Copper, Tin). To work around this, you can use a Karve or Longship to transport these materials back to your base. Alternatively, you can smelt the metals in the Swamp and craft items like Iron Nails or Tools on-site, which can then be transported through the portal. This reduces the need for multiple trips and minimizes risk.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, consider setting up a small outpost near your Swamp portal. This outpost should include a Workbench, Forge, and Chests for storing resources. This allows you to repair tools and store items without needing to return to your main base. Additionally, always carry materials to repair your portal in case it gets destroyed by enemies or environmental hazards like rain.\n\nFinally, here are some practical tips for using portals in the Swamp: Always scout the area before placing your portal to ensure it’s safe. Use the Hoe to level the ground and create a dry, elevated platform for your portal to prevent it from being submerged in water. Bring a stack of Wood and Stone to build quick defenses if needed. And most importantly, always have an escape plan—portals are your lifeline in dangerous biomes like the Swamp.