How do you use the Hammer to build structures on Ocean islands?

Building structures on Ocean islands in Valheim requires careful planning and understanding of the game mechanics. The Hammer is your primary tool for construction, but you must first gather the necessary materials and ensure you have a Workbench nearby. Ocean islands are typically small and scattered, so building efficiently is key to creating functional and safe structures.\n\nTo start, you need to craft a Hammer. This requires 3 Wood and 2 Stone, which are easily gathered from the Meadows biome. Once you have the Hammer, equip it and open the build menu by right-clicking. From here, you can select various building pieces like walls, floors, and roofs. However, building on Ocean islands often requires additional preparation due to the lack of flat terrain and limited space.\n\nBefore placing any structures, you must ensure the area is stable. Use the Hoe to level the ground, which requires Stone and Wood. This is especially important on Ocean islands, as uneven terrain can prevent proper placement of building pieces. If the island is too small, consider extending it by raising the ground with the Hoe. This will give you more space to work with and prevent structures from collapsing into the water.\n\nOnce the ground is prepared, place a Workbench. This is essential for building and repairing structures. The Workbench requires 10 Wood and must be placed on flat, stable ground. If the island is too small, you can build a small platform using Wooden Floors to place the Workbench. Ensure the Workbench is protected from waves and enemies, as it is crucial for maintaining your structures.\n\nWhen building on Ocean islands, prioritize functionality over aesthetics. Start with a small shelter to protect yourself from storms and enemies. Use Wooden Walls and a thatched Roof to create a basic structure. If you plan to stay longer, consider adding a Portal for quick travel back to your main base. Portals require 20 Fine Wood, 2 Greydwarf Eyes, and 10 Surtling Cores, which can be found in the Swamp biome.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with waves and water damage. To mitigate this, build your structures slightly elevated from the waterline. Use Wooden Beams or Stone Foundations to raise the floor level. This will prevent waves from damaging your structures and keep your items safe. Additionally, avoid building too close to the edge of the island, as waves can still reach and destroy your work.\n\nFor experienced players, consider building a dock or boat landing area. This will make it easier to access your island base and store your Longship or Karve. Use Wooden Stairs or Beams to create a ramp leading into the water. This will allow you to dock your boat safely and unload resources without risking damage.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected challenges. Ocean islands are often far from other biomes, so bring enough resources to sustain yourself. Stockpile Wood, Stone, and food before embarking on your building project. If you encounter Serpents or other hostile creatures, ensure your base has defensive structures like walls or spikes to protect yourself.\n\nIn summary, building on Ocean islands in Valheim requires careful planning, resource management, and adaptability. Use the Hammer and Hoe to prepare the terrain, place a Workbench for construction, and prioritize functionality. Elevate your structures to avoid water damage, and consider adding a Portal or dock for convenience. With these tips, you can create a functional and safe base on even the smallest Ocean islands.