What’s the best way to avoid Bonemass’s melee attacks in co-op?

Bonemass, the third boss in Valheim, is a formidable foe with devastating melee attacks that can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. In co-op, avoiding these attacks requires coordination, preparation, and understanding of the boss''s mechanics. Bonemass primarily uses two melee attacks: a wide swing with its massive arm and a ground slam that creates a poison AoE (Area of Effect). Both attacks deal significant damage and can poison players, making avoidance critical for survival.\n\nTo avoid Bonemass''s melee attacks, positioning is key. The boss has a slow turning speed, so players should always stay on its sides or behind it. Avoid standing directly in front of Bonemass, as this is where its wide swing and ground slam are most effective. In co-op, one player can act as the tank, drawing the boss''s attention while others attack from the sides or rear. This strategy minimizes the risk of multiple players being hit by the same attack.\n\nAnother effective tactic is to use the environment to your advantage. Bonemass is found in the Swamp biome, which is filled with trees, rocks, and other obstacles. Players can use these to create barriers between themselves and the boss, forcing Bonemass to navigate around them. This slows its movement and gives players more time to react to its attacks. Additionally, standing on higher ground, such as fallen logs or rocks, can make it harder for Bonemass to reach you with its melee attacks.\n\nPreparation is crucial for this fight. Before engaging Bonemass, ensure all players have Poison Resistance Mead, as the boss''s attacks and the Swamp biome itself can inflict poison damage. Crafting this mead requires Honey, Thistle, Coal, and Neck Tails, which can be gathered from the Meadows and Swamp biomes. Equip the best armor and weapons available, such as Iron Armor and a Mace, as Bonemass is weak to blunt damage. Bringing healing items like Cooked Meat and Berries is also essential for sustaining health during the fight.\n\nCommunication is vital in co-op. Assign roles to each player, such as a tank, DPS (damage per second), and support. The tank should focus on keeping Bonemass''s attention while the DPS players attack from the sides or rear. Support players can focus on healing and reviving teammates if necessary. Using voice chat or in-game text chat to coordinate movements and attacks can significantly improve your chances of success.\n\nFinally, practice makes perfect. Bonemass''s attacks are predictable once you understand its patterns. Spend time observing its movements and timing your dodges. Rolling or sprinting away at the right moment can help you avoid damage entirely. If you or your teammates are struggling, consider retreating to a safe distance to regroup and heal before re-engaging. Patience and persistence are key to defeating Bonemass in co-op.\n\nIn summary, avoiding Bonemass''s melee attacks in co-op requires strategic positioning, environmental awareness, proper preparation, and effective communication. By staying on the boss''s sides or rear, using the Swamp''s terrain to your advantage, and coordinating with your team, you can minimize damage and emerge victorious. Remember to bring Poison Resistance Mead, equip blunt weapons, and assign roles to each player for a smoother fight. With these tips, you and your fellow Vikings can conquer Bonemass and continue your journey through Valheim.