What is the best way to farm Black Metal in the Plains?

Farming Black Metal in Valheim''s Plains biome is essential for crafting high-tier weapons, armor, and tools. Black Metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains. These enemies drop Black Metal Scraps, which can be smelted into Black Metal at a Blast Furnace. To efficiently farm Black Metal, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the biome''s dangers, and optimize your combat and resource-gathering strategies.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. The Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim, home to powerful enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with high-tier armor, such as Wolf Armor or Padded Armor, and bring a strong weapon like a Blackmetal Sword or Atgeir. A fully upgraded shield, such as the Black Metal Shield, is also crucial for blocking Fuling attacks. Additionally, bring healing meads, stamina meads, and a rested buff to maximize your survivability.\n\nTo locate Fulings, explore the Plains biome during the day, as they are more active and easier to spot. Fulings often spawn in groups near their villages, which are identifiable by their wooden structures and totems. These villages are rich in resources but heavily guarded, so approach cautiously. Use a bow to pick off Fulings from a distance, especially the spear-throwing and berserker variants, which are particularly dangerous. Clearing a Fuling village not only yields Black Metal Scraps but also provides access to valuable resources like barley and flax.\n\nOne effective strategy is to lure Fulings into traps or use the environment to your advantage. For example, you can dig trenches around their villages to funnel them into choke points, making it easier to fight them one at a time. Alternatively, use the terrain to create elevated positions where you can safely shoot arrows or throw weapons. Be cautious of Deathsquitos, which can quickly drain your health if you''re not paying attention. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and prioritize eliminating these threats first.\n\nAfter defeating Fulings, collect their Black Metal Scraps and any other loot they drop. To smelt Black Metal Scraps into Black Metal, you''ll need a Blast Furnace, which requires Artisan Table access and materials like Stone, Iron, Fine Wood, and Surtling Cores. Place the Blast Furnace near your base and fuel it with Coal to begin smelting. Each Black Metal Scrap yields one Black Metal bar, which can then be used for crafting.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to note that Black Metal Scraps cannot be teleported through portals. This means you''ll need to transport them manually or set up a secondary base near the Plains for smelting. Experienced players can optimize this process by building a secure outpost in the Plains, complete with a Blast Furnace and storage for Black Metal Scraps. This reduces the need for frequent trips back to your main base.\n\nFinally, consider farming Black Metal in conjunction with other Plains resources. For example, while hunting Fulings, you can also gather barley and flax, which are essential for crafting end-game food and armor. This multitasking approach maximizes your efficiency and ensures you make the most of your time in the Plains. Always be prepared for unexpected encounters, and don''t hesitate to retreat if you''re overwhelmed.\n\nIn summary, farming Black Metal in the Plains requires preparation, strategy, and caution. Equip yourself with strong gear, clear Fuling villages methodically, and use the environment to your advantage. Smelt your Black Metal Scraps efficiently and consider setting up a Plains outpost to streamline the process. With these tips, you''ll be well on your way to crafting powerful Black Metal gear and conquering Valheim''s toughest challenges.