How can you efficiently farm black metal in the Plains biome?

Farming black metal in Valheim''s Plains biome is a critical step for progressing to endgame gear and weapons. Black metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains. These enemies drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal bars at a blast furnace. To efficiently farm black metal, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the biome''s dangers, and optimize your combat and resource-gathering strategies.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. The biome is one of the most dangerous in Valheim, with deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with padded armor or wolf armor for maximum protection, and bring a strong weapon like a blackmetal sword, atgeir, or bow. A fully upgraded Draugr Fang bow with needle arrows is particularly effective against Fulings and Deathsquitos. Additionally, bring healing meads, stamina meads, and a rested buff to sustain yourself during combat.\n\nTo maximize black metal farming, focus on locating Fuling villages. These settlements are densely populated with Fulings and often contain black metal scraps in chests. Use a longship to explore the Plains coastline, as Fuling villages are commonly found near the shore. Once you locate a village, clear it systematically. Start by sniping Fulings from a distance with your bow to thin their numbers, then engage in melee combat with your strongest weapon. Be cautious of Fuling Berserkers and Shamans, as they are tougher and can deal significant damage.\n\nAfter clearing a village, loot all chests and gather black metal scraps. Fulings also drop trophies and coins, which can be useful for trading with Haldor the merchant. If you encounter a Deathsquito, prioritize killing it quickly, as its high-speed attacks can be lethal. Lox can be avoided or tamed for their resources, but they are not a primary source of black metal.\n\nTo speed up the farming process, consider setting up a small outpost near a Fuling village. Build a portal connected to your main base for quick travel and resource storage. A workbench and a blast furnace can also be placed nearby to smelt black metal scraps into bars on-site. This minimizes downtime and allows you to focus on farming.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with large groups of Fulings. To handle this, use terrain to your advantage. Lure enemies into narrow spaces or behind obstacles to fight them one at a time. Alternatively, use a harpoon to pull Fulings into water, where they move slower and are easier to defeat. If you are overwhelmed, retreat to a safe distance and use your bow to pick off enemies from afar.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for random encounters. Deathsquitos and Fuling patrols can appear unexpectedly, so stay alert and keep your health and stamina topped up. With proper preparation and strategy, you can efficiently farm black metal and progress to crafting powerful endgame gear like the blackmetal axe, sword, and shield.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal for quick escapes, use the terrain to control enemy movement, and prioritize upgrading your gear before farming. With these strategies, you''ll master the Plains biome and gather black metal efficiently.