What are the best building materials for a starter base in the Meadows biome?

When building a starter base in the Meadows biome in Valheim, the best materials to use are wood and core wood. These materials are readily available, easy to gather, and provide a solid foundation for your first shelter. The Meadows biome is the safest starting area, making it ideal for new players to establish their first base. Wood is the most basic building material, obtained by chopping down trees with a stone axe, while core wood comes from pine trees in the Black Forest biome, which borders the Meadows.\n\nTo begin, craft a stone axe using wood and stone, which are abundant in the Meadows. Use the axe to chop down trees and gather wood. For a starter base, you’ll need at least 100-200 wood to build a small shelter, a workbench, and basic furniture. Start by placing a workbench, as it is required to construct most building pieces. Build a simple rectangular or square structure with wooden walls, a thatched roof, and a door to keep enemies out. Ensure the roof is fully covered to prevent rain from damaging your base.\n\nCore wood is a stronger alternative to regular wood and can be used for sturdier structures. To gather core wood, venture into the nearby Black Forest biome and chop down pine trees. Core wood is particularly useful for building support beams and taller structures, as it has higher durability and can support more weight. However, it requires a bronze axe to harvest efficiently, so prioritize upgrading your tools if you plan to use core wood extensively.\n\nOne common challenge for new players is dealing with enemy raids. To protect your starter base, build a perimeter fence or stake wall using wood. This will keep out Greylings and other low-level enemies. Additionally, place a campfire inside your base to provide warmth and light, which also deters enemies from spawning nearby. If you’re short on materials, consider building a smaller base initially and expanding as you gather more resources.\n\nAnother tip is to build near water or a coastline. This allows for easy access to fishing and future boat construction. However, avoid building too close to the Black Forest until you’re better equipped, as stronger enemies like Trolls can pose a threat. If you’re struggling with space, consider building vertically by adding a second floor to your base. Use core wood beams for additional support and stability.\n\nFinally, always prioritize upgrading your workbench and crafting station. This will unlock better building options and allow you to repair structures more efficiently. As you progress, you can replace wooden walls with stone for added durability, but this requires a stonecutter and access to stone resources. For now, focus on mastering the basics of wood and core wood construction to create a functional and secure starter base in the Meadows biome.\n\nIn summary, wood and core wood are the best materials for a starter base in the Meadows biome. Start with a simple wooden shelter, expand as needed, and use core wood for stronger supports. Protect your base with fences, campfires, and strategic placement. As you gather more resources, you can upgrade and expand your base to suit your needs.