What’s the most efficient way to build a defensive wall with limited resources?

Building an efficient defensive wall in Valheim with limited resources requires careful planning and understanding of game mechanics. The first step is to gather the necessary materials, primarily wood, which is abundant in the Meadows biome. Start by chopping down trees using a Flint Axe or better, and collect as much wood as possible. For a stronger wall, consider upgrading to Core Wood, found in the Black Forest biome, which provides better durability and defense.\n\nOnce you have your materials, plan the layout of your wall. A straight wall is easier to build but may not be the most efficient for defense. Instead, consider creating a wall with staggered sections or incorporating natural terrain features like rocks and cliffs. This reduces the amount of material needed and makes it harder for enemies to breach. Use the Hammer tool to place wooden beams or core wood logs vertically, as they provide better structural integrity than horizontal placements.\n\nTo maximize resource efficiency, avoid overbuilding. A single layer of walls is often sufficient for early-game defense, especially if you reinforce it with spikes or trenches. Spikes can be crafted using wood and placed around the perimeter to deter enemies. Trenches, dug with a Pickaxe, create a natural barrier that slows down or stops enemies entirely. Both methods are cost-effective and require fewer materials than building multiple layers of walls.\n\nAnother key strategy is to use the terrain to your advantage. If your base is near a river or cliff, incorporate these natural barriers into your defense. For example, build your wall along the edge of a cliff to prevent enemies from climbing up. Similarly, rivers can act as moats, forcing enemies to swim and making them easier targets for your arrows or melee attacks.\n\nFor players with access to stone, combining wood and stone walls can create a more durable defense. Stone walls require a Stonecutter, which is unlocked after defeating the first boss, Eikthyr. While stone is more resource-intensive, it provides superior protection against stronger enemies like Trolls. Use stone for critical sections of your wall, such as gates or areas prone to heavy attacks, and wood for less vulnerable sections.\n\nFinally, always prioritize repairing your walls after attacks. Use the Hammer tool to repair damaged sections, which costs fewer resources than rebuilding. Regularly check your defenses for weak points and reinforce them as needed. By following these steps, you can create an efficient and resource-friendly defensive wall that protects your base without exhausting your supplies.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra wood and repair materials when exploring. Use the Workbench to craft additional spikes or walls on the go. If you''re short on resources, consider building smaller, modular walls that can be expanded later. And remember, a well-placed campfire or torch can deter enemies like Greydwarfs, adding an extra layer of defense without using additional materials.