How do I build a raft quickly in the early game for exploration?

Building a raft in Valheim is one of the first steps toward exploring the vast world of the game, especially in the early game when resources are limited. A raft is a simple, cost-effective vessel that allows you to traverse water bodies, which are often barriers to reaching new biomes or resources. To build a raft, you need to unlock the crafting recipe by gathering specific materials and using the Hammer tool.\n\nFirst, you must gather the required materials: 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. Wood is the most basic resource and can be obtained by chopping down trees in the Meadows biome, which is the starting area. Leather Scraps are dropped by Boars, which are common in the Meadows, and Resin is obtained by destroying Greydwarf nests or killing Greydwarves. These materials are relatively easy to collect early in the game, making the raft an accessible option for new players.\n\nOnce you have the materials, equip your Hammer and open the crafting menu by pressing the right mouse button. Navigate to the Misc tab and select the raft. You can place the raft in shallow water, but make sure the area is clear of obstacles like rocks or other structures. The raft will snap into place, and you can interact with it to board. It’s important to note that rafts are slow and not very durable, so they are best used for short trips or calm waters.\n\nOne common challenge early players face is finding Leather Scraps. Boars are the primary source, but they can be tricky to hunt without proper tools. To make this easier, craft a Flint Spear or a Wood Club, which are early-game weapons that can help you take down Boars efficiently. Additionally, Greydwarves often drop Resin, so farming them near Black Forests can speed up the process of gathering materials.\n\nWhen using the raft, be cautious of the weather and sea creatures. Storms can make navigation difficult, and Serpents, which spawn in the Ocean biome, can attack and destroy your raft. To avoid these dangers, stick to coastal areas and avoid venturing too far into open water until you have a stronger vessel like the Karve or Longship. If you do encounter a Serpent, try to steer the raft toward land or shallow water where the creature cannot follow.\n\nFor new players, the raft is a stepping stone to greater exploration. It allows you to reach nearby islands or coastal areas where you might find valuable resources like Flint, Copper, or even new biomes like the Black Forest. Experienced players can use the raft as a quick, disposable option for short trips or as a backup vessel in case their primary ship is destroyed.\n\nIn summary, building a raft in Valheim is a straightforward process that requires basic materials and tools. Focus on gathering Wood, Leather Scraps, and Resin, and use the Hammer to craft the raft in shallow water. Be mindful of the raft’s limitations and avoid dangerous areas until you have better equipment. With these tips, you’ll be able to explore the waters of Valheim safely and efficiently.