What’s the best way to protect a shared base from raids?

Protecting a shared base from raids in Valheim requires a combination of strategic planning, defensive structures, and teamwork. Raids are triggered by events like the appearance of the ‘The ground is shaking’ or ‘A foul smell from the swamp’ messages, which spawn waves of enemies. These events can destroy your base if you’re unprepared, so it’s crucial to build defenses that can withstand attacks while keeping your team safe.\n\nFirst, focus on building a strong perimeter around your base. Use raised earth walls or stone walls, as these are more durable than wood and can withstand attacks from trolls and other strong enemies. To create raised earth walls, use a hoe to level the ground and then raise it into a wall-like structure. Stone walls require stone and a stonecutter, which is unlocked after defeating the first boss, Eikthyr. These walls should encircle your base completely, leaving no gaps for enemies to exploit.\n\nNext, add defensive structures like stake walls, spikes, and trenches. Stake walls are wooden barriers that deal damage to enemies who touch them, while spikes can be placed around the perimeter for additional protection. Trenches are another effective defense; dig a deep moat around your base using a pickaxe to prevent enemies from reaching your walls. Combine these defenses for maximum effectiveness, such as placing spikes at the bottom of a trench to damage enemies who fall in.\n\nPositioning is key when defending your base. Place workbenches or other crafting stations inside your walls to prevent enemy spawns within your base. Additionally, build elevated platforms or watchtowers for your team to safely attack enemies from above. Archers can use these platforms to pick off enemies while staying out of harm’s way. For melee fighters, ensure there are choke points like narrow gates where enemies can be funneled and dealt with efficiently.\n\nLighting and traps can also enhance your defenses. Place campfires or torches around your base to deter nocturnal enemies and provide visibility during raids. Traps like the bronze-atgeir or spear traps can be crafted and placed strategically to deal damage to enemies as they approach. These traps require bronze and other materials, so ensure your team has access to a forge and the necessary resources.\n\nTeam coordination is essential during raids. Assign roles to each player, such as archers, melee fighters, and builders. Archers should focus on taking out ranged enemies like Draugr, while melee fighters handle close-quarters threats like trolls. Builders can repair damaged walls or structures during the raid to maintain your defenses. Communication is key, so use in-game chat or voice communication tools to stay organized.\n\nFinally, prepare for biome-specific raids by tailoring your defenses. For example, swamp raids bring Draugr and blobs, so ensure your team has poison resistance mead and fire arrows. Mountain raids introduce wolves and drakes, so stock up on frost resistance mead and build warm shelters. By anticipating these threats, you can minimize damage and keep your base secure.\n\nIn summary, protecting a shared base from raids involves building strong walls, adding defensive structures, and coordinating with your team. Use raised earth or stone walls, trenches, and spikes to create a secure perimeter. Position crafting stations and watchtowers strategically, and use traps and lighting to enhance your defenses. Tailor your preparations to the biome-specific threats you face, and always communicate with your team during raids. With these strategies, your base will stand strong against even the toughest enemies.