How do you avoid Draugr while gathering wood in the Swamp?

Gathering wood in the Swamp biome in Valheim can be dangerous due to the presence of Draugr, hostile undead creatures that can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. To avoid Draugr while gathering wood, you need to understand the biome''s mechanics, plan your approach, and use the right tools and strategies. The Swamp is a mid-game biome filled with hazards like waterlogged terrain, Leeches, and Draugr, so preparation is key.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before entering the Swamp. Craft a Bronze Axe or better, as it allows you to chop down trees quickly. Equip a shield and a weapon like a Mace or Sword to defend yourself if necessary. Wear armor such as Troll Hide or Bronze, which provides decent protection without slowing you down. Bring healing items like Cooked Meat or Honey, and consider carrying Poison Resistance Mead to counter the Swamp''s toxic environment.\n\nWhen entering the Swamp, stick to the edges of the biome rather than venturing deep into its heart. Draugr are more likely to spawn near Draugr Villages or Sunken Crypts, so avoid these areas if your goal is to gather wood. Look for trees near the border of the Swamp and Meadows or Black Forest, as these areas are less densely populated by enemies. This strategy minimizes the risk of encountering Draugr while still allowing you to collect wood.\n\nUse stealth to your advantage. Crouch to reduce your visibility and noise, making it harder for Draugr to detect you. If you spot a Draugr in the distance, avoid drawing its attention by staying out of its line of sight. If you must engage, use ranged weapons like a Bow to take it down from a safe distance. Always prioritize eliminating threats before focusing on gathering resources.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to create a safe zone. Build a small outpost near the Swamp''s edge with a Workbench, a Portal, and a Fire. This allows you to quickly retreat, repair tools, and recover health if needed. You can also use the outpost as a staging area to store wood and other resources before transporting them back to your main base. This reduces the time spent in the Swamp and limits your exposure to Draugr.\n\nFinally, consider using the environment to your advantage. Draugr are slower in water, so if you need to escape, lead them into a shallow pool or river. You can also use trees and rocks as cover to break their line of sight. If you''re gathering wood at night, be extra cautious, as Draugr are more active and aggressive during this time. Always carry a torch or other light source to improve visibility.\n\nIn summary, avoiding Draugr while gathering wood in the Swamp requires preparation, stealth, and strategic planning. Equip yourself with the right tools, stick to safer areas, and use the environment to your advantage. By following these steps, you can efficiently gather wood while minimizing the risk of encountering Draugr.