Since its Early Access launch in 2021, Valheim has evolved step by step. After the first major Hearth & Home update in September that year, the next milestone arrived in early 2022: the Frost Caves update. It focused entirely on the Mountains, one of the most atmospheric yet long underutilized biomes. The Frost Caves changed that dramatically.
In this article, you’ll learn what the update added, which new dangers and rewards await, and how the Mountains turned into a compelling part of the game.
Mountains before the Frost Caves update: enemies and feel
Before the update, the Mountains were dangerous but fairly predictable. With enough frost resistance (e.g., via mead or Wolf Armor), you could move around quite freely. Enemies were mainly Wolves, Drakes, and the occasional Stone Golem. The challenge was more about preparation than moment-to-moment gameplay. Many players treated the Mountains as a transit biome — a place to mine Silver rather than linger. Frost Caves changed that.
Iron Gate added a new type of dungeon. These Frost Caves work similarly to the Burial Chambers in the Meadows or the Sunken Crypts in the Swamp, but they’re unique in look and gameplay. The Mountains finally received the depth many had been missing.
Finding and entering Frost Caves: tips to get started
As you explore the Mountains, you can spot Frost Cave entrances on slopes. They blend into the environment and are easy to overlook. Inside you’ll find winding tunnels, icy chambers, and narrow corridors with limited visibility — a setting that punishes mistakes.
Important world generation note: Frost Caves only appear in Mountain regions that were not generated before the update. In an older world, you’ll need to reveal new parts of the map to find these dungeons.
Recommended prep for your run:
- Equipment: Solid armor, a reliable melee weapon, and a bow for range.
- Consumables: Plenty of food for health and stamina, health mead, and frost resistance for the trip there if needed.
- Tools: A light source (torch) and enough inventory space for Crystals and rare materials.
- Tactics: Control rooms, use choke points, and approach doors and corners carefully.
Frost Caves enemies: Bats and Ulv
The update introduced several new enemies specific to Frost Caves — each encounter feels distinct and adds tension.
- Bats: Often hang from ceilings and attack in swarms. Individually harmless, but in tight corridors they become a nuisance. A bow or well-timed parries help.
- Ulv: Wolf-like creatures — fast and aggressive. Dangerous in packs. Watch your back, use your shield, and counter.
- Ulv variants: Slightly stronger versions with larger health pools and more aggressive behavior.
Cultists in the Frost Caves: fire magic and tactics
The most striking new enemy type is the Cultist. Cloaked in red and wielding fire magic, they pose a threat that goes beyond plain physical attacks. Groups are especially dangerous.
Tips against Cultists:
- Positioning: Use cover and choke points to dodge fireballs.
- Resistances: A swig of fire resistance barley wine can make all the difference.
- Focus targets: Prioritise Cultists before turning back to Ulv or Bats.
Their presence lends the Mountains a new, almost mystical atmosphere — an extra layer of lore and mystery.
Loot in the Frost Caves: Crystals, Fenris hair, and Red jute
It’s not just danger — there are worthwhile rewards too:
- Crystals: Mined from large formations; used for weapons and decoration.
- Fenris hair: Drops from Ulv; essential for new armor pieces.
- Red jute: Needed for themed décor and furnishing items.
Fenris armor: bonuses, benefits, and style
The Fenris armor set (tunic, greaves, and cape/hood) is a highlight of the update. It’s light, grants a noticeable movement speed bonus, and offers protection against fire damage — perfect versus Cultists. Visually it evokes a wild, wolf-pelt look, delivering style alongside solid utility.
Crystal battleaxe and new recipes: weapons from the Frost Caves
With the caves’ Crystals you can craft the Crystal battleaxe — a striking weapon with powerful chops. The update also adds new recipes like the Flesh Rippers and various potions and minor items, broadening build variety.
Dungeon design in the Mountains: Frost Caves as a gameplay upgrade
Frost Caves carry forward Iron Gate’s successful dungeon formula from the Burial Chambers (Meadows) and Sunken Crypts (Swamp) — this time with a distinct identity. The mix of unique enemies, engaging architecture, and worthwhile loot makes these dungeons a true highlight.
Players benefit from tactical play: use choke points, manage stamina, anticipate ambushes, and split enemies instead of overcommitting.
Atmosphere of the Frost Caves: level design and mood
Dark, mysterious, and menacing: the reflective ice, tight passages, and the howls of Ulv create an intense, almost claustrophobic mood — a strong contrast to the open world. This atmosphere sticks with you and contributes greatly to the update’s appeal.
Impact on Valheim: why the Mountains are worth it now
Thanks to the Frost Caves, the Mountains have become a rewarding biome: beyond Silver, there are now dungeons, armor, and weapons to pursue. The update shows how new content can be organically integrated into the world without feeling out of place — a template for future expansions.
Frost Caves verdict: frigid depths, fiercely contested
The Frost Caves update may be smaller than later additions like Mistlands or Ashlands, but its impact is big: it filled a gameplay gap and brought fresh enemies, exciting dungeons, and new gear. For you, that means more thrills, more rewards — and a strong reason to head back into the Mountains, ideally with friends. Conquer the frozen depths to claim rare materials and prove your skill. Rent your own Valheim server now.
