How do I gather stone from rocky outcrops in the Plains biome?

Gathering stone from rocky outcrops in the Plains biome in Valheim is a straightforward but potentially dangerous task due to the biome''s hostile inhabitants. The Plains biome is home to dangerous creatures like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox, so preparation is key. Before venturing into the Plains, ensure you have strong armor, a reliable weapon, and plenty of food to boost your health and stamina. Stone is a critical resource for building and crafting, and the Plains biome offers abundant rocky outcrops that yield large amounts of stone when mined.\n\nTo gather stone, you will need a pickaxe. The Antler Pickaxe, Bronze Pickaxe, Iron Pickaxe, or Black Metal Pickaxe are all suitable tools, but higher-tier pickaxes like the Iron or Black Metal versions will mine stone faster. Equip your pickaxe and approach a rocky outcrop, which appears as large, gray boulders scattered across the Plains. These outcrops are distinct from smaller rocks, which yield less stone and are more common in other biomes.\n\nOnce you locate a rocky outcrop, position yourself close to it and left-click to start mining. Each strike will break off chunks of stone, which will automatically be added to your inventory. A single rocky outcrop can yield between 20 to 40 pieces of stone, making it a highly efficient source of this resource. Be mindful of your surroundings while mining, as the noise can attract nearby enemies like Fulings or Deathsquitos.\n\nOne common challenge in the Plains biome is dealing with hostile mobs while gathering resources. To mitigate this, consider clearing the area of enemies before starting to mine. Use a bow to take out Deathsquitos from a distance, and engage Fulings with melee weapons or ranged attacks. If you are overwhelmed, retreat to a safer area and regroup. Building a small outpost with a workbench and portal nearby can also help you quickly return to the Plains if you die or need to resupply.\n\nAnother practical tip is to mine during the day, as visibility is better and some enemies, like Fulings, are less aggressive. If you must mine at night, bring a torch or campfire to light your surroundings and avoid surprises. Additionally, consider bringing a cart to transport large amounts of stone back to your base. The Plains biome often has flat terrain, making it easier to pull a cart compared to other biomes like the Black Forest or Mountains.\n\nIn summary, gathering stone in the Plains biome requires preparation, the right tools, and awareness of the biome''s dangers. Use a pickaxe to mine rocky outcrops, clear the area of enemies beforehand, and consider building a small outpost for convenience. With these strategies, you can efficiently gather stone while minimizing risks in this challenging biome.