What is the best biome to find large stone deposits early in the game?

The best biome to find large stone deposits early in Valheim is the Black Forest. This biome is accessible shortly after starting the game and is rich in resources, including stone, copper, and tin. Large stone deposits are scattered throughout the Black Forest, often appearing as towering boulders or clusters of smaller rocks. These deposits are essential for crafting stone tools, building structures, and progressing through the early game.\n\nTo locate large stone deposits, venture into the Black Forest biome, which is darker and denser than the Meadows. Look for large, gray boulders that stand out against the terrain. These boulders can be mined using a pickaxe, which you can craft after defeating Eikthyr, the first boss. To craft a pickaxe, you will need 10 wood and 1 hard antler, which drops from Eikthyr. Once you have a pickaxe, approach the stone deposit and start mining by left-clicking repeatedly.\n\nMining stone deposits in the Black Forest is relatively safe compared to other biomes, but you should still be cautious. The Black Forest is home to Greylings, Greydwarfs, and occasionally Trolls. To minimize risk, bring a weapon like a club or bow, and consider crafting a shield for defense. If you encounter a Troll, avoid engaging unless you are well-prepared, as they deal significant damage early in the game. Instead, use the terrain to your advantage by hiding behind trees or rocks while mining.\n\nOne common challenge early players face is running out of stamina while mining. To address this, bring food items like berries, mushrooms, or cooked meat to replenish stamina quickly. Additionally, avoid mining during rain, as it reduces stamina regeneration. If you find yourself overwhelmed by enemies, retreat to a safer area and return later. Building a small outpost near the Black Forest can also help you store resources and recover stamina without traveling far.\n\nFor efficient stone gathering, prioritize mining large boulders, as they yield more stone than smaller rocks. Each large deposit can provide 20-30 stone, making them highly valuable. Once you have enough stone, use it to craft essential items like the stonecutter, which unlocks advanced building options. The stonecutter requires 10 wood and 2 stone to craft and must be placed near a workbench.\n\nIn summary, the Black Forest is the best biome for finding large stone deposits early in Valheim. Equip a pickaxe, bring food for stamina, and stay alert for enemies while mining. By focusing on large boulders and building a nearby outpost, you can gather stone efficiently and progress through the early game with ease.