What are the best strategies for fighting Bonemass in the Swamp biome?
Fighting Bonemass in Valheim is one of the most challenging boss encounters, especially in the Swamp biome. Bonemass is the third boss and is known for its high health pool, poison attacks, and ability to summon adds. To succeed, preparation is key. You will need strong gear, proper food, and a well-thought-out strategy. This guide will walk you through the best strategies for defeating Bonemass in co-op mode.\n\nFirst, ensure you are properly equipped. Bonemass is resistant to most damage types except blunt damage, so prioritize weapons like the Iron Mace or Stagbreaker. Both are effective against Bonemass and its summoned minions. For armor, upgrade to Iron Armor or better, as it provides solid defense against Bonemass''s melee attacks. Additionally, craft a Poison Resistance Mead, as Bonemass''s poison attacks can quickly drain your health. This mead is crafted at the Fermenter using Honey, Thistle, Neck Tail, and Coal.\n\nNext, prepare your food and healing items. Bonemass fights can be lengthy, so bring high-tier food like Sausages, Turnip Stew, and Cooked Meat to maximize your health and stamina. Healing meads are also essential for recovering from poison damage or unexpected hits. Stock up on these items before engaging the boss, as running out of resources mid-fight can be disastrous.\n\nBefore summoning Bonemass, clear the area around the altar. The Swamp biome is filled with hostile creatures like Draugr, Leeches, and Blobs, which can complicate the fight. Use a Hoe to level the ground and remove water pools, as fighting in water slows movement and reduces your ability to dodge attacks. Building a small platform or treehouse nearby can also provide a safe spot to retreat and heal if needed.\n\nWhen fighting Bonemass, focus on teamwork and positioning. In co-op mode, assign roles to each player. One player should act as the tank, drawing Bonemass''s attention and blocking its melee attacks with a shield. The other players should focus on dealing damage with blunt weapons while avoiding the boss''s poison clouds. Bonemass will periodically summon adds like Skeletons and Blobs, so prioritize clearing these minions to avoid being overwhelmed.\n\nBonemass has three main attacks: a melee swipe, a poison cloud, and a vomit attack that spawns adds. The melee swipe can be blocked with a strong shield, but the poison cloud requires constant movement to avoid. The vomit attack is telegraphed by Bonemass rearing back, giving you time to move away. Use the environment to your advantage by kiting Bonemass around trees or rocks to create distance and avoid its attacks.\n\nFinally, stay patient and communicate with your team. Bonemass has a large health pool, so the fight will take time. Avoid rushing in and focus on consistent damage while managing your stamina. If a player goes down, prioritize reviving them quickly to maintain your team''s strength. With proper preparation and coordination, Bonemass can be defeated, granting you access to the Wishbone and new crafting materials.\n\nIn summary, defeating Bonemass requires blunt weapons, Poison Resistance Mead, and a well-prepared team. Clear the area, assign roles, and focus on avoiding poison attacks while dealing consistent damage. With these strategies, you and your team can conquer the Swamp biome''s toughest challenge.