What’s the best way to protect your base from raids and enemy spawns?

Protecting your base from raids and enemy spawns in Valheim is essential for survival, especially as you progress into harder biomes like the Swamp or Plains. Raids are triggered by specific events, such as defeating bosses or spending time in your base, and they can bring waves of enemies like Greydwarfs, Trolls, or even Fulings. To defend your base effectively, you need to understand game mechanics like enemy spawn rules, raid triggers, and defensive structures.\n\nFirst, focus on building a strong perimeter. Use wooden or stone walls to create a barrier around your base. Stone walls are more durable and resistant to attacks from stronger enemies like Trolls. For early-game players, wooden walls are a good starting point, but upgrade to stone as soon as you unlock it by mining and smelting stone in a Kiln. Ensure your walls are at least two layers thick to withstand heavy attacks.\n\nNext, dig a moat around your base. Enemies cannot swim or climb steep slopes, so a deep trench will stop them from reaching your walls. Use a pickaxe to dig a trench at least two meters deep and three meters wide. This is especially effective against Trolls, who can destroy walls with their clubs. Place the excavated dirt on the inner side of the trench to create a raised barrier for added protection.\n\nLighting is another critical factor. Enemies are less likely to spawn near torches or campfires. Place these light sources around your base, especially near walls and entrances. This reduces the chance of random spawns inside your perimeter. Additionally, workbenches and other crafting stations prevent enemy spawns in their radius, so spread them out across your base.\n\nFor advanced defense, consider building spike traps or ballistas. Spike traps can be placed along walls or in choke points to deal damage to enemies. Ballistas, unlocked in the Plains biome, are automated turrets that shoot arrows at approaching foes. These require Black Metal and Fine Wood to craft, making them a late-game option. Position them strategically to cover vulnerable areas.\n\nFinally, always have a plan for raids. When a raid begins, enemies will target your base structures and workbenches. Stay calm and focus on defending key areas. Use weapons like bows for ranged attacks or melee weapons like swords and shields for close combat. Keep healing items like cooked meat or potions nearby to recover health during battles.\n\nBy combining these strategies—strong walls, moats, lighting, and traps—you can create a secure base that withstands even the toughest raids. Adapt your defenses as you progress through biomes and face stronger enemies. With careful planning, your base will remain a safe haven in the harsh world of Valheim.