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

Defending a shared base from raids in Valheim requires careful planning, teamwork, and strategic use of in-game mechanics. 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. To protect your base, you need to focus on fortifications, traps, and coordinated defense strategies.\n\nFirst, prioritize building strong defenses. Start by constructing a sturdy perimeter wall around your base using stone or reinforced wood. Stone walls are more durable and resistant to enemy attacks, but they require a Stonecutter and access to stone resources. For early-game players, reinforced wood walls are a good alternative. Ensure your walls are at least two layers thick to withstand stronger enemies like Trolls. Add a moat or trench around the perimeter to slow down or block enemy movement. Digging a deep trench with a pickaxe is an effective way to keep enemies at bay.\n\nNext, set up defensive structures like stake walls, spike traps, and ballistae. Stake walls can be placed outside your main walls to deal damage to approaching enemies. Spike traps are particularly useful in narrow pathways or choke points, where enemies are forced to walk over them. Ballistae, unlocked with Black Metal and Fine Wood, are automated turrets that fire arrows at enemies. Place them strategically near entrances or high-traffic areas to maximize their effectiveness.\n\nCoordinate with your team to assign roles during raids. Designate players to man the defenses, repair structures, and engage enemies directly. For example, one player can focus on using a bow to pick off ranged enemies, while another uses a melee weapon to handle close-quarters combat. Communication is key, so use in-game chat or voice communication tools to stay organized.\n\nPrepare for specific raid types by understanding enemy weaknesses. For example, during “The ground is shaking” event, Trolls will attack your base. These enemies are weak to fire and piercing damage, so equip fire arrows or spears. For swamp raids, where Draugr and Blobs spawn, use frost or poison resistance meads to mitigate damage. Stockpile healing items like cooked food and potions to keep your team alive during prolonged battles.\n\nFinally, consider the biome where your base is located. If your base is in the Meadows or Black Forest, you’ll face different threats than in the Mountains or Plains. For example, in the Plains, Deathsquitos and Fulings are common raid enemies. Build elevated platforms or walls to avoid Deathsquito attacks, and use fire-based weapons to counter Fulings. Adapt your defenses to the biome’s unique challenges.\n\nIn summary, defending a shared base in Valheim requires a combination of strong fortifications, strategic traps, and teamwork. Focus on building durable walls, setting up defensive structures, and coordinating roles with your team. Prepare for specific raid types by understanding enemy weaknesses and adapting to your biome’s challenges. With these strategies, your base will stand strong against even the toughest raids.