How do you craft the Black Metal Shield, and what are its advantages?

The Black Metal Shield is one of the most powerful shields in Valheim, offering excellent defense and durability for players venturing into the Plains biome. To craft this shield, you will need to progress through the game, defeat challenging enemies, and gather rare materials. The Black Metal Shield requires a Forge, which is a crafting station unlocked after defeating the second boss, The Elder. You will also need to have access to the Plains biome, as this is where you can farm Black Metal Scraps, a key crafting ingredient.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Shield, you need the following materials: 10 Black Metal Scraps, 5 Fine Wood, and 3 Chain. Black Metal Scraps are obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies found in the Plains biome. Fine Wood is gathered by chopping down Birch or Oak trees, which are found in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. Chains are a rare drop from Wraiths in the Swamp biome or can be found in chests in Sunken Crypts. Once you have all the materials, head to your Forge and craft the shield.\n\nThe Black Metal Shield is a tower shield, meaning it provides high block power and durability but slows your movement slightly when equipped. It has a base block power of 90, making it one of the best shields in the game for absorbing damage. This shield is particularly useful in the Plains biome, where Fulings and Loxes deal significant damage. Its high block power allows you to tank hits from these enemies, giving you more time to counterattack or retreat if needed.\n\nOne of the key advantages of the Black Metal Shield is its ability to block a wide range of damage types, including physical and elemental attacks. This makes it versatile for various combat scenarios, whether you''re fighting Fulings, Deathsquitos, or even bosses like Moder or Yagluth. Additionally, the shield''s durability is high, meaning it won''t break easily during prolonged battles. However, keep in mind that tower shields like this one reduce your movement speed, so it''s best suited for players who prefer a defensive playstyle.\n\nFor new players, acquiring the Black Metal Shield can be a significant milestone, as it requires venturing into the dangerous Plains biome. To farm Black Metal Scraps efficiently, consider setting up a small outpost near a Fuling village. Use a bow to pick off Fulings from a distance, and always be prepared to retreat if overwhelmed. For experienced players, the Black Metal Shield is a reliable choice for endgame content, especially when paired with high-tier armor like Padded Armor or the Fenris Set.\n\nIn summary, the Black Metal Shield is a top-tier defensive item that requires careful preparation and exploration to craft. Its high block power and durability make it ideal for surviving the Plains biome and tackling late-game challenges. By gathering the necessary materials and mastering combat mechanics, you can craft this shield and significantly improve your survivability in Valheim.