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Valheim’s Hearth and Home update reworks axes and bows

The two-handed axe should feel more useful, while the bow has been reined in a bit.

A Valheim player shows off their bow

Valheim’s Hearth and Home update lands next week, but that doesn’t mean Iron Gate is letting up on teasing what’s on the way. Previously, the studio revealed how food and shields are changing – oh, and you’ll be able to vomit on command, too, in case you wanted to flip Iron Gate’s Viking game into a university simulator. Now, though, we have a better idea of how the indie game’s weapons are set to change.

While every weapon has been rebalanced, the axe and bow have seen the most extensive changes. The two-handed axe will have a faster windup alongside increased stagger damage and cleaving capability. That said, Iron Gate is keeping this weapon slow and heavy, so you’ll need to be tactical with how you use it.

Iron Gate has also taken a balance pass at the bow in hopes of making it feel “less overpowered”. The draw speed has been adjusted, so you can’t draw your bow instantly – even if you have maxed out your bow skill. It’s not all bad news, though, as it’ll cost less stamina to keep your bow fully drawn. Iron Gate says that’ll give you more time to aim without seeing your energy become wholly depleted.

That’s all we’re getting for Iron Gate’s Hearth and Home update videos, though someone from the team does say that one more “slightly different” video is on the way – Hmm.

Here’s the video:

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We have some nifty guides on building tips and progression if you’re looking to brush up ahead of the Valheim Hearth and Home release date. After all, what good is a hunting trip if you don’t have a fabulous base to return to?