How do you locate and harvest black metal in the Plains biome?

Locating and harvesting black metal in the Plains biome is a crucial step for progressing in Valheim, as it allows you to craft some of the game''s strongest weapons, armor, and tools. Black metal is a late-game resource that can only be obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains biome. To begin your journey, you must first locate the Plains biome, which is typically found far from the starting Meadows biome. Look for golden grasslands, large rock formations, and Lox creatures to identify the Plains.\n\nBefore venturing into the Plains, ensure you are well-prepared. The biome is one of the most dangerous in Valheim, with deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with high-tier armor, such as Wolf Armor or Padded Armor, and bring powerful weapons like a Frostner or Draugr Fang bow. Additionally, stock up on healing meads, stamina meads, and food that boosts your health and stamina, such as Serpent Stew or Lox Meat Pie. A fully upgraded shield is also recommended to block Fuling attacks effectively.\n\nOnce you are ready, explore the Plains biome to locate Fuling camps. These camps are small settlements with wooden structures, totems, and multiple Fulings patrolling the area. Fulings come in various types, including standard melee fighters, spear throwers, and shamans. The shamans can heal other Fulings and summon fireballs, making them a priority target. Defeating Fulings will drop black metal scraps, which are the raw form of black metal. Be cautious, as Fuling camps are often heavily guarded, and engaging multiple enemies at once can be deadly.\n\nAfter collecting black metal scraps, you will need to smelt them into usable black metal. This requires a Blast Furnace, which is unlocked after defeating Moder, the fourth boss in Valheim. To build a Blast Furnace, you will need 20 Fine Wood, 10 Iron, 20 Stone, and 5 Surtling Cores. Place the Blast Furnace in your base and fuel it with coal. Insert the black metal scraps into the furnace to smelt them into black metal bars, which can then be used for crafting.\n\nCrafting with black metal requires a level 4 Forge. Some of the best items you can craft include the Black Metal Sword, Black Metal Atgeir, and Black Metal Shield. These items are highly effective against the game''s toughest enemies and are essential for surviving in the Mistlands biome, which is even more challenging than the Plains. Additionally, black metal is used to craft the Black Metal Knife and Black Metal Axe, which are excellent tools for combat and resource gathering.\n\nOne common challenge players face is dealing with Deathsquitos, which are fast and deal significant damage. To counter them, always keep your shield raised when exploring the Plains, and use a bow to take them down from a distance. Another challenge is managing stamina during combat with Fulings. Use stamina-boosting foods like Bread or Eyescream to ensure you can dodge and attack effectively. Finally, always scout Fuling camps from a distance before engaging, as some camps may have more enemies than you can handle alone.\n\nIn summary, locating and harvesting black metal in the Plains biome requires preparation, combat skill, and strategic planning. Equip yourself with the best gear, stock up on supplies, and approach Fuling camps cautiously. Once you have black metal scraps, smelt them into bars and craft powerful weapons and armor to prepare for the endgame challenges. With these tips, you''ll be well-equipped to conquer the Plains and beyond.