How do I craft a Black Metal Shield and what materials are needed?

Crafting a Black Metal Shield in Valheim is a significant milestone for players looking to enhance their defensive capabilities. This high-tier shield is one of the best in the game, offering excellent block power and durability. However, crafting it requires advanced materials and access to specific crafting stations, making it a mid-to-late-game item. Below, we’ll break down the step-by-step process, including the materials needed, where to find them, and how to overcome common challenges.\n\nFirst, you’ll need to gather the required materials: 10 Fine Wood, 8 Black Metal, and 5 Chain. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. These trees require a Bronze Axe or better to harvest. Black Metal is a late-game resource dropped by Fulings, which are hostile creatures found in the Plains biome. Chain is a rare material that can be obtained by defeating Wraiths in the Swamp biome at night or by looting chests in Sunken Crypts.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Shield, you’ll need access to a Forge. The Forge is a crafting station that becomes available after you’ve progressed through the Bronze Age and unlocked the ability to smelt metals like Iron and Black Metal. If you don’t already have a Forge, you’ll need to build one using 4 Stone, 4 Coal, 10 Wood, and 6 Copper. Place the Forge in a sheltered area, as it requires a roof to function properly.\n\nOnce you have the materials and a Forge, open the crafting menu at the Forge. Navigate to the Shields tab and locate the Black Metal Shield. If you have all the required materials, you’ll be able to craft it. The Black Metal Shield provides 90 block power and 200 durability, making it one of the strongest shields in the game. It’s particularly effective against the high-damage attacks of Fulings and other Plains biome enemies.\n\nOne common challenge players face is acquiring Black Metal. Fulings are tough enemies, especially for players who are new to the Plains biome. To make this easier, consider upgrading your weapons and armor before venturing into the Plains. A fully upgraded Iron Mace or Frostner is highly effective against Fulings. Additionally, bring healing mead and stamina mead to sustain yourself during combat. If you’re struggling to find Fulings, explore the outskirts of Fuling Villages, as they often patrol these areas.\n\nAnother challenge is obtaining Chain. Wraiths are rare enemies that only spawn at night in the Swamp biome. To increase your chances of encountering them, explore the Swamp during nighttime and bring a weapon with high damage output, such as an Iron Sword or Atgeir. Alternatively, you can find Chain in chests inside Sunken Crypts, which are scattered throughout the Swamp. Bring a Swamp Key (dropped by the Elder boss) to unlock these crypts.\n\nFinally, it’s worth noting that the Black Metal Shield is a tower shield, meaning it provides excellent blocking power but slows your movement while equipped. If you prefer a faster playstyle, consider crafting the Black Metal Atgeir or a round shield like the Serpent Scale Shield. However, for players who prioritize defense, the Black Metal Shield is an excellent choice.\n\nIn summary, crafting a Black Metal Shield requires preparation, resource gathering, and combat readiness. Focus on upgrading your gear, exploring the Plains and Swamp biomes, and utilizing the Forge to create this powerful defensive tool. With the Black Metal Shield in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the toughest challenges Valheim has to offer.