What’s the most effective way to farm black metal in the Plains biome?

Farming black metal in the Plains biome is essential for crafting high-tier weapons, armor, and tools in Valheim. Black metal is dropped by Fulings, the aggressive goblin-like creatures that inhabit the Plains. To efficiently farm black metal, you’ll need to prepare adequately, 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. This biome is one of the most dangerous in Valheim, with threats like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with at least iron-tier armor and weapons, such as the Iron Mace or Iron Sword, as these are effective against Fulings. A strong shield, like the Iron Buckler or Silver Shield, is also crucial for parrying their attacks. Additionally, bring healing items like cooked meat, sausages, and meads to sustain yourself during combat.\n\nTo locate Fulings, explore the Plains biome during the day, as they are more active and easier to spot. Fulings often spawn in groups near their villages, which are identifiable by their wooden structures and totems. These villages are rich in resources but heavily guarded, so approach cautiously. Use a bow to pick off Fulings from a distance, especially the spear-throwing and berserker variants, which are more dangerous. Once you’ve cleared a village, you can loot black metal scraps from their drops.\n\nOne effective strategy is to lure Fulings into traps or environmental hazards. For example, you can lead them into Lox herds, as Lox are hostile to Fulings and will attack them. Alternatively, dig trenches or build walls around Fuling villages to funnel them into kill zones. This reduces the risk of being overwhelmed by multiple enemies. Always prioritize the Fuling Shamans first, as they can heal other Fulings and summon fireballs.\n\nAfter collecting black metal scraps, you’ll need to smelt them into black metal bars using a Blast Furnace. To craft a Blast Furnace, you’ll need 20 Fine Wood, 10 Iron, 4 Chains, and 5 Surtling Cores. Chains can be obtained from Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by breaking hanging braziers in Sunken Crypts. Once you have the Blast Furnace, place it near your base and fuel it with coal to smelt the scraps into bars.\n\nA common challenge is dealing with Deathsquitos while farming black metal. These fast, deadly insects can one-shot unprepared players. To counter them, always keep your shield raised when exploring the Plains, and use a bow to take them out from a distance. Wearing strong armor and having high health will also reduce the risk of being killed instantly.\n\nFor experienced players, consider setting up a portal near a Fuling village to streamline farming. This allows you to quickly return to your base to repair gear or drop off loot. Additionally, bring a Cart or Longship to transport large amounts of black metal scraps back to your base efficiently.\n\nIn summary, farming black metal in the Plains biome requires preparation, strategy, and caution. Equip yourself with strong gear, clear Fuling villages methodically, and use environmental advantages to your benefit. With these tips, you’ll be able to gather black metal efficiently and craft powerful endgame equipment.