What is the best biome to start building your first shelter in Valheim?

When starting your journey in Valheim, choosing the right biome to build your first shelter is crucial for survival and progression. The Meadows biome is the best location for new players to establish their first base. This biome is the safest starting area, with relatively low-threat enemies like Greylings and Boars, making it ideal for beginners. The Meadows also provides abundant resources such as wood, stone, and berries, which are essential for crafting basic tools and building materials.\n\nTo begin building your shelter, gather wood by punching or using a stone axe to chop down trees. Collect stone from the ground or by breaking small rocks. These materials are used to craft a workbench, which is the foundation of all crafting and building in Valheim. Place the workbench in a clear area, as it requires space to function. Once the workbench is set up, you can craft a hammer, which is the primary tool for building structures.\n\nStart by constructing a simple wooden floor and walls to create a basic shelter. Ensure your shelter has a roof to protect you from rain and cold, which can drain your stamina over time. A door is also essential to keep enemies out. If you encounter Greylings or other threats, use a wooden club or flint spear to defend yourself. Flint can be found near water sources in the Meadows and is a key early-game resource for crafting weapons and tools.\n\nAs you progress, consider expanding your shelter to include storage chests, a bed for respawning, and a fire for warmth and cooking. The fire must be placed indoors but requires ventilation, so leave a small opening in the roof or walls. Cooking food like meat or mushrooms over the fire will restore more health and stamina than raw items, giving you an edge in combat and exploration.\n\nOne common challenge in the early game is managing your stamina and health. To address this, always carry food like berries or cooked meat, and avoid overextending yourself in combat. Another tip is to build near water or a Black Forest border for easy access to additional resources like flint, tin, and copper later in the game. However, avoid building too close to the Black Forest initially, as it is home to stronger enemies like Greydwarfs and Trolls.\n\nIn summary, the Meadows biome is the best place to build your first shelter in Valheim due to its safety and resource availability. Start by gathering wood and stone, craft a workbench and hammer, and build a basic shelter with a roof and door. Expand your base with storage, a bed, and a fire, and always prioritize food and stamina management. By following these steps, you''ll establish a strong foundation for your Viking adventure.\n\nPractical tips: Always keep your workbench protected from rain, as it can be damaged over time. Use fences or walls to create a perimeter around your base to deter enemies. Finally, explore nearby areas cautiously to gather resources without venturing too far from safety.