How can I keep track of which portals I’ve built and their connected locations?

Keeping track of portals and their connected locations in Valheim is essential for efficient exploration and resource management. Portals allow you to travel instantly between two points, but without proper organization, it’s easy to lose track of which portal leads where. Here’s a detailed guide to help you manage your portal network effectively.\n\nFirst, understand the basic mechanics of portals. To build a portal, you need 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees, Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands biome. Once you have the materials, craft a portal at a workbench and place it in your desired location. To connect two portals, you must name them with the same tag. For example, naming both portals ''Home'' will link them together.\n\nTo keep track of your portals, start by creating a naming convention. Use descriptive and consistent names for each portal pair. For example, if you’re building a portal to the Black Forest, name it ''Forest1'' and its connected counterpart ''Forest1'' as well. This ensures you know exactly where each portal leads. Avoid generic names like ''Portal1'' or ''Portal2,'' as these can quickly become confusing as your network grows.\n\nAnother effective method is to use a physical map or in-game markers. Place a sign near each portal with its name and destination. To craft a sign, you need 2 Wood and 1 Coal. Write the portal’s name and its connected location on the sign, such as ''Forest1 - Black Forest Outpost.'' This visual reminder helps you quickly identify portals, especially in large bases or crowded areas.\n\nFor players with multiple bases or portals, consider creating a central hub. Build a dedicated area in your main base where all portals are grouped together. This makes it easier to manage and access your network. For example, you could have a portal room with signs labeling each portal’s destination, such as ''Swamp Base,'' ''Mountain Peak,'' or ''Plains Farm.'' This centralized approach saves time and reduces confusion.\n\nIf you’re playing with friends, communication is key. Coordinate portal names and locations with your group to avoid overlaps or mismatched connections. For example, if one player names a portal ''Swamp'' and another names a different portal ''Swamp,'' they won’t connect unless they use the exact same tag. Establish a shared naming system to prevent issues.\n\nFinally, consider using external tools for advanced tracking. Some players use spreadsheets or apps to log portal names, locations, and connected destinations. While this requires extra effort, it’s a great solution for players with extensive portal networks. Alternatively, you can take screenshots of your map and annotate portal locations for quick reference.\n\nIn summary, managing portals in Valheim requires a combination of clear naming conventions, visual aids, and organization. By using descriptive names, signs, and a central hub, you can easily keep track of your portal network. Whether you’re a new player or an experienced Viking, these strategies will help you navigate the world of Valheim with confidence.