What’s the best way to avoid getting poisoned by The Elder’s ranged root attack?

The Elder, Valheim''s second boss, is a formidable foe with a ranged root attack that can poison players, causing significant damage over time. To avoid getting poisoned, understanding the boss''s mechanics and preparing adequately is crucial. The Elder''s root attack is a projectile that spawns from the ground, targeting players within range. When hit, it inflicts poison, which drains health rapidly. To counter this, players must focus on movement, positioning, and preparation.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right gear and consumables. Equip armor with high poison resistance, such as the Troll Armor set, which provides decent protection and mobility. Alternatively, the Root Armor set, crafted from materials in the Swamp biome, offers significant poison resistance. Consume food that boosts health and stamina, such as Cooked Meat, Carrot Soup, and Queens Jam, to increase your survivability. Additionally, craft and carry Poison Resistance Mead, which can be brewed using a Fermenter and ingredients like Honey, Thistle, and Neck Tail. This mead provides temporary immunity to poison, making it invaluable during the fight.\n\nDuring the battle, movement is key. The Elder''s root attack has a noticeable wind-up animation, giving players a brief window to react. When you see the ground glowing or roots emerging, immediately sprint or dodge roll to the side. Staying mobile reduces the chances of being hit. Avoid standing still for too long, as the Elder''s attacks are more likely to land on stationary targets. Use the environment to your advantage by positioning yourself behind trees or large rocks, which can block the root projectiles.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use ranged weapons, such as a Finewood Bow and Fire Arrows. This allows you to maintain distance while dealing consistent damage. Fire Arrows are particularly effective against The Elder, as the boss is weak to fire damage. By staying at range, you minimize the risk of being hit by the root attack. However, if you prefer melee combat, use a shield to block incoming attacks and time your strikes carefully. The Bronze Buckler or Iron Buckler are excellent choices for parrying The Elder''s melee attacks.\n\nFor new players, it''s essential to clear the area around The Elder''s summoning altar before starting the fight. Remove nearby Greydwarfs and other enemies to avoid distractions. Place a portal nearby for quick respawns if needed, and consider bringing a friend for co-op support. The Elder''s attacks are easier to manage with multiple players, as you can divide its attention and revive fallen allies.\n\nIn summary, avoiding The Elder''s poison attack requires preparation, quick reflexes, and strategic positioning. Equip poison-resistant armor, consume Poison Resistance Mead, and stay mobile during the fight. Use ranged weapons to maintain distance and exploit The Elder''s fire weakness. Clear the area beforehand and consider co-op play for an easier experience. With these tips, you''ll be well-equipped to defeat The Elder and progress further in Valheim.