How do I track my progress in finding and using obsidian?

Tracking your progress in finding and using obsidian in Valheim is essential for crafting advanced tools and weapons. Obsidian is a rare resource found in the Mountain biome, and it is used to create items like the obsidian arrow, obsidian knife, and frost-resistant mead. To begin your journey, you must first locate the Mountain biome, which is identifiable by its snowy peaks and harsh weather conditions. Ensure you are well-prepared with frost-resistant gear, such as the wolf fur cape or frost-resistant mead, as the cold can quickly drain your health.\n\nOnce you have entered the Mountain biome, obsidian can be found as black, shiny deposits on the ground. These deposits are often located near rocky outcrops or cliffs. To mine obsidian, you will need an iron pickaxe or better, as lower-tier tools will not work. Equip your pickaxe and approach the deposit to begin mining. Each deposit yields 4-6 pieces of obsidian, so gather as much as you can to avoid frequent trips back to the biome.\n\nAfter collecting obsidian, you can use it to craft various items at the appropriate workstations. For example, the obsidian arrow requires 4 obsidian, 2 feathers, and 8 wood, and it can be crafted at a workbench. The obsidian knife, a powerful early-game weapon, requires 4 obsidian, 2 leather scraps, and 2 wood. Additionally, obsidian is a key ingredient in frost-resistant mead, which is essential for surviving the Mountain biome''s freezing temperatures. To craft frost-resistant mead, you will need a cauldron and fermenter, along with 10 honey, 5 thistle, 2 bloodbags, and 1 obsidian.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating the Mountain biome early in the game. If you are struggling to find it, explore the edges of the Black Forest or Swamp biomes, as Mountains are often adjacent to these areas. Another challenge is surviving the cold. If you do not have frost-resistant gear, bring plenty of health-restoring items like cooked meat or berries, and avoid staying in the biome for extended periods until you are better equipped.\n\nTo track your progress, consider creating a checklist of items you want to craft using obsidian. For example, prioritize crafting frost-resistant mead if you plan to spend more time in the Mountains. You can also mark the locations of obsidian deposits on your map using the in-game cartography table, making it easier to return to them later. Additionally, keep an eye out for silver veins while exploring the Mountains, as silver is another valuable resource found in this biome.\n\nIn summary, tracking your progress with obsidian involves locating the Mountain biome, mining the resource with an iron pickaxe, and crafting useful items at workstations. Prepare for the cold, mark deposit locations on your map, and prioritize crafting frost-resistant gear to make your exploration more efficient. With these steps, you will master the use of obsidian and enhance your survival in Valheim.