How can you use the Bonemass power to reduce physical damage taken?

The Bonemass power in Valheim is one of the most effective tools for reducing physical damage during combat. This power is unlocked by defeating the Bonemass boss in the Swamp biome, and it provides a significant damage reduction buff for a limited time. To activate the power, you must first summon and defeat Bonemass, then place its trophy on the corresponding stone at the sacrificial altar. Once activated, the Bonemass power reduces all physical damage taken by 50% for 5 minutes, making it invaluable for tough fights.\n\nTo use the Bonemass power effectively, you need to plan ahead. Before engaging in combat, ensure the power is ready to activate by checking the cooldown timer. The power has a 20-minute cooldown, so timing is crucial. For example, if you''re about to face a group of Fulings in the Plains biome or a pack of wolves in the Mountains, activating the power just before the fight begins will give you a significant advantage. This is especially useful when fighting multiple enemies or bosses like Moder or Yagluth, where physical damage is a major threat.\n\nGame mechanics play a key role in maximizing the Bonemass power''s effectiveness. Physical damage reduction applies to all sources of melee and ranged attacks, including arrows, swords, and blunt weapons. However, it does not reduce elemental or poison damage, so you''ll still need to prepare for those threats separately. For instance, when fighting in the Swamp biome, you should pair the Bonemass power with poison resistance mead to counter the deadly poison attacks from Blobs and Leeches.\n\nTo craft poison resistance mead, you''ll need a fermenter and the following ingredients: 10 honey, 5 thistle, 1 neck tail, and 10 coal. Brewing this mead in advance ensures you''re fully prepared for Swamp encounters. Additionally, wearing upgraded armor, such as iron or wolf armor, further enhances your survivability when combined with the Bonemass power. This combination allows you to tank hits from powerful enemies like Trolls or Stone Golems without taking significant damage.\n\nFor new players, the Bonemass power is a game-changer when exploring dangerous biomes like the Mountains or Plains. It provides a safety net during unexpected encounters, such as running into a pack of Draugr or a surprise Deathsquito attack. Experienced Vikings can use the power strategically during boss fights or raids on Fuling villages, where physical damage is unavoidable. Always keep an eye on the cooldown timer and plan your engagements accordingly.\n\nPractical tips for using the Bonemass power include pairing it with high-health foods like serpent stew, lox meat pie, and blood pudding. These foods increase your maximum health, allowing you to absorb even more damage while the power is active. Additionally, consider using a shield to block incoming attacks, as the damage reduction stacks with the Bonemass power. For example, a fully upgraded black metal shield can block most physical attacks, making you nearly invincible during the power''s duration.\n\nIn summary, the Bonemass power is a must-have for any Viking looking to survive Valheim''s toughest challenges. By reducing physical damage by 50%, it provides a significant edge in combat, especially when paired with proper preparation and strategy. Whether you''re a new player exploring the Swamp or an experienced Viking taking on Yagluth, mastering the Bonemass power will ensure your survival in the most dangerous situations.