How do I avoid Bonemass’s melee attacks as a solo player?

Bonemass is one of Valheim''s most challenging bosses, especially for solo players. Its melee attacks are devastating, dealing massive damage and applying a poison debuff. To avoid these attacks, you must understand its mechanics and prepare accordingly. Bonemass primarily uses two melee attacks: a slow, heavy swipe and a faster, more unpredictable slam. Both attacks have a wide area of effect, making close-quarters combat risky without proper preparation.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right gear and consumables. Equip a fully upgraded Iron Armor set for maximum defense, as Bonemass deals heavy physical damage. A Poison Resistance Mead is essential to mitigate the poison debuff from its attacks. Craft this mead using Honey, Thistle, Neck Tail, and Coal at a Fermenter. Additionally, bring Healing Mead and Stamina Mead to sustain yourself during the fight. A high-tier shield, such as the Iron Buckler, is also recommended for parrying its attacks.\n\nNext, choose the right weapon. Bonemass is highly resistant to slash and pierce damage, so blunt weapons like the Iron Mace are your best option. Upgrade your mace to at least level 3 to maximize damage output. Alternatively, Frostner, a silver-tier weapon, is highly effective if you have access to the Mountains biome and can craft it using Silver, Ymir Flesh, and Ancient Bark.\n\nTo avoid Bonemass''s melee attacks, maintain a safe distance and use the environment to your advantage. Fight in the Swamp biome, but clear the area of enemies and obstacles beforehand. Use trees, rocks, and the indestructible skull altar to block its path and create distance. When Bonemass approaches, dodge roll to the side or backward to avoid its swipe. Timing is crucial; roll just as it begins its attack animation to evade successfully.\n\nIf you''re caught in close range, use your shield to parry its attacks. Parrying requires precise timing: raise your shield just before the attack lands to stagger Bonemass and create an opening for counterattacks. This strategy is risky but rewarding, as it allows you to deal significant damage while minimizing risk. Practice parrying on weaker enemies like Draugr before attempting it on Bonemass.\n\nFinally, use ranged attacks to chip away at its health from a safe distance. While Bonemass is resistant to pierce damage, Frost Arrows can still deal decent damage and slow its movement. Craft Frost Arrows using Wood, Feathers, and Obsidian, which can be found in the Mountains biome. Kite Bonemass around the arena, firing arrows between its attacks to whittle down its health.\n\nIn summary, avoiding Bonemass''s melee attacks requires preparation, timing, and strategy. Equip the right gear, use the environment to your advantage, and master dodging and parrying to survive the fight. With patience and practice, you can defeat Bonemass solo and claim its trophy.