What’s the most effective way to farm Surtling Cores for portals?

Surtling Cores are essential for crafting portals, smelters, and charcoal kilns in Valheim, making them a highly sought-after resource. These cores are primarily found in Burial Chambers in the Black Forest biome and in Fire Geysers in the Swamp biome. For efficient farming, the Swamp biome is the most reliable source due to the consistent spawns of Surtlings at Fire Geysers.\n\nTo begin farming Surtling Cores, you’ll need to locate a Swamp biome. Fire Geysers are easily identifiable by their bubbling pools of fire and constant Surtling spawns. Surtlings are small, fire-based enemies that drop Surtling Cores upon death. The key to efficient farming is manipulating the environment to make the process faster and safer.\n\nOne of the most effective methods is to dig around the Fire Geyser to lower the ground level. When the water level rises (due to rain or the natural water level of the Swamp), it will extinguish the Surtlings as soon as they spawn, causing them to die instantly and drop their loot. This method requires a pickaxe and some patience, but it eliminates the need for combat and allows you to farm cores passively.\n\nIf you prefer a more active approach, you can fight the Surtlings directly. They are weak to frost and water damage, so weapons like the Frostner or arrows imbued with frost damage are highly effective. However, be cautious of their fire attacks, which can deal significant damage if you’re not prepared. Always bring healing mead and wear armor with decent fire resistance, such as the Root Mask or Wolf Armor.\n\nAnother strategy is to create a portal near a Fire Geyser for quick access. This allows you to return to your base to drop off cores and restock supplies without losing progress. To craft a portal, you’ll need 10 Greydwarf Eyes, 20 Fine Wood, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood can be obtained from Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, while Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs in the Black Forest.\n\nFor new players, Burial Chambers in the Black Forest are a safer alternative for obtaining Surtling Cores. These dungeons contain Surtling Cores in chests and as loot from destroyed piles of bones. However, the yield is lower compared to Fire Geysers, and you’ll need to navigate traps and enemies like Skeletons and Ghosts. Bring a shield, a weapon like a club or axe, and a torch to light your way.\n\nIn summary, the most effective way to farm Surtling Cores is by targeting Fire Geysers in the Swamp biome. Use environmental manipulation to passively farm cores or engage in combat with frost-based weapons for a more active approach. Always prepare adequately with the right gear, healing items, and a portal for convenience. With these strategies, you’ll have a steady supply of Surtling Cores for all your crafting needs.