How can you use portals to optimize resource gathering in distant biomes?

Portals are one of the most powerful tools in Valheim for optimizing resource gathering, especially in distant biomes like the Mountains, Swamps, or Plains. By strategically placing portals, you can minimize travel time, reduce the risk of losing valuable resources, and streamline your resource-gathering process. To use portals effectively, you need to understand their mechanics and plan your routes carefully.\n\nFirst, you must craft a portal. Portals require 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood can be obtained from birch or oak trees, Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands. Once crafted, place two portals and assign them the same tag to link them. This allows instant travel between the two points.\n\nWhen venturing into distant biomes, always bring portal materials with you. Before leaving your base, craft a portal and leave it unlinked. Carry the materials for a second portal in your inventory. When you reach your destination, place the second portal and link it to the one at your base. This ensures you can quickly return home to drop off resources or recover if you die. For example, when mining Silver in the Mountains, you can place a portal near the deposit to transport ore efficiently.\n\nA common challenge is transporting metal ores like Iron, Silver, or Black Metal, as these cannot be taken through portals. To overcome this, use a cart or longship to transport the ores to a nearby coastal area. Build a smelting outpost with a portal nearby to process the ores into bars, which can then be transported through the portal. This method saves time and reduces the risk of losing resources to enemies or environmental hazards.\n\nFor biomes like the Swamp, where Iron Scrap is abundant but dangerous to gather, place a portal near the entrance of a Sunken Crypt. This allows you to quickly return to your base to repair tools, rest, or store items. In the Plains, where Fuling villages and Lox herds are common, set up a portal near a safe spot to avoid constant long-distance travel. Always ensure your portals are protected by walls or fences to prevent enemy interference.\n\nAnother tip is to create a network of portals at your base. Label each portal with its destination biome or purpose, such as ''Mountain Mine'' or ''Swamp Crypt.'' This organization prevents confusion and ensures you always have a quick route to your resource-gathering locations. Additionally, consider building a portal hub in a central location on the map to connect multiple biomes efficiently.\n\nFinally, always carry backup portal materials. If your portal is destroyed or you need to establish a new route, having extra materials ensures you can adapt quickly. This is especially useful in dangerous biomes where unexpected threats can arise. By mastering portal usage, you can significantly enhance your resource-gathering efficiency and make your Valheim adventures more manageable and enjoyable.