How do I use portals to avoid Deathsquito attacks in the Plains?

Portals are one of the most valuable tools in Valheim for fast travel and avoiding dangerous encounters, such as Deathsquito attacks in the Plains biome. Deathsquitos are fast, aggressive creatures that can deal massive damage, especially to unprepared players. By strategically using portals, you can minimize your exposure to these threats and safely navigate the Plains.\n\nTo use portals effectively, you must first craft them. Portals require 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, 2 Surtling Cores, and a Workbench. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest. Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarves, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands or Swamp biomes. Once you have the materials, place two portals in different locations and assign them the same tag to link them.\n\nWhen exploring the Plains, it’s crucial to set up a portal near the biome’s edge before venturing deeper. This ensures a quick escape route if you encounter Deathsquitos or other threats. For example, if you’re entering the Plains from the Meadows, place a portal just outside the Plains border. Name it something like ‘Plains Entry’ and link it to a portal at your base. This way, you can retreat instantly if overwhelmed.\n\nAnother strategy is to establish a small outpost within the Plains, protected by walls or raised earth. Build a portal inside this outpost and link it to your main base. This allows you to quickly return to safety or resupply without risking a long journey through dangerous terrain. Always carry portal materials (Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores) in your inventory when exploring, so you can set up a temporary portal if needed.\n\nDeathsquitos are particularly dangerous because they are fast and hard to spot until they attack. To avoid them, stay alert and listen for their distinctive buzzing sound. If you hear it, immediately look around and prepare to dodge or block their attack. If you’re caught off guard, use your portal to escape before they can strike. Portals can be activated instantly, making them a lifesaver in emergencies.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that portals cannot transport metals like Copper, Tin, or Iron. If you’re gathering resources in the Plains, such as Black Metal or Flax, you’ll need to transport them manually or use a Longship for bulk transport. However, you can still use portals to quickly return to your base for repairs, food, or rest, reducing the risk of Deathsquito encounters during long expeditions.\n\nExperienced players can optimize portal usage by creating a network of linked portals across multiple biomes. For example, you might have portals labeled ‘Plains Farm,’ ‘Swamp Mine,’ and ‘Mountain Peak’ at your base, each leading to a specific resource-gathering location. This minimizes travel time and keeps you safe from Deathsquitos and other threats.\n\nIn summary, portals are an essential tool for surviving the Plains biome and avoiding Deathsquito attacks. By crafting and placing portals strategically, you can create safe routes for exploration and resource gathering. Always carry portal materials, stay alert for Deathsquitos, and use your portals to escape danger quickly. With these tips, you’ll be able to navigate the Plains safely and efficiently.