Can Kelvin Carry More Than One Log? The Definitive Guide

Yes, Kelvin can carry more than one log in Sons of the Forest. While his initial behavior and the game’s mechanics might suggest otherwise, understanding the intricacies of the command system and positioning allows you to effectively utilize Kelvin to gather and transport multiple logs, significantly speeding up your base-building process. This article delves into the hows and whys, providing a comprehensive guide to maximizing Kelvin’s log-carrying capabilities and addressing common questions players have about his behavior and limitations.

Understanding Kelvin’s AI and Log Carrying

Kelvin’s actions are dictated by a simple yet sometimes frustrating AI. He responds to commands written on your notebook, and his understanding is limited to those commands. The most relevant command for log carrying is the “Gather Logs” order. However, simply giving this order doesn’t guarantee Kelvin will retrieve and drop off multiple logs in a coordinated manner. Initially, he’ll likely retrieve one log and then wait for further instruction.

The key to making Kelvin carry multiple logs lies in strategically placing the “Gather Logs” order multiple times near a forest area and a designated drop-off point. This essentially creates a “path” for Kelvin to follow, repeatedly gathering logs and transporting them. The closer these points are, the faster Kelvin will work.

Another critical factor is the proximity of the trees to each other. Kelvin will prioritize trees closest to the marked location. Thinning out a specific area allows him to efficiently access and chop down multiple trees in rapid succession.

Optimizing Kelvin for Log Carrying

To fully unlock Kelvin’s log-carrying potential, consider these strategies:

• Command Stacking: Place multiple “Gather Logs” commands in a line from a dense forest area to your base location. This encourages him to continually fetch logs without constantly needing new instructions.
• Strategic Tree Placement (or Removal): Kelvin’s pathfinding can be a bit rudimentary. Remove trees and obstacles that hinder his direct route between the forest and your base. You can also plant trees closer to the base to shorten his travel time.
• Designated Drop-Off Zones: Clearly define an area where Kelvin should deposit the logs. This prevents him from scattering them randomly around your base, making organization much easier.
• Patience and Observation: Kelvin’s AI isn’t perfect. Observe his behavior and adjust your commands accordingly. Sometimes, slightly repositioning a command marker can significantly improve his efficiency.
• Prioritize Near Trees: Initially, marking areas with trees very close to the base drastically speeds up the building process, as the distance he has to travel is minimal.

By implementing these tactics, you can transform Kelvin from a single-log porter into a valuable asset capable of significantly accelerating your base-building endeavors.

Common Issues and Solutions

Players often encounter issues with Kelvin’s log-carrying abilities. Here’s a breakdown of common problems and their solutions:

• Kelvin only brings one log at a time: This is the most common complaint. Use the command stacking strategy mentioned earlier. Place multiple “Gather Logs” commands near the forest and your base.
• Kelvin gets stuck: Clear obstacles from his path, including bushes, rocks, and fallen trees. Reposition command markers to guide him around problematic areas.
• Kelvin ignores the “Gather Logs” command: Ensure you are pointing the notebook at a visible, unobstructed area when placing the command. Sometimes, the game can be finicky with command placement.
• Kelvin damages the base while carrying logs: This is rare, but it can happen. Designate a wide path for him to travel, away from delicate structures.
• Kelvin drops logs in random locations: Define a clear drop-off zone using logs or other markers to indicate where he should deposit his cargo.

Leveraging Kelvin’s Full Potential

While log carrying is a primary function, Kelvin can perform other tasks that indirectly support base building. He can gather fish, clear brush, and even build simple structures under your direction. Combining these abilities with his log-carrying capacity makes him an indispensable companion for any Sons of the Forest player. Mastering his command set and understanding his limitations is the key to unlocking his full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kelvin and Logs

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify how Kelvin interacts with the log-carrying mechanic.

1. How do I give Kelvin the “Gather Logs” command?

Open your notebook, equip an axe or a similar tool, and point it towards a forest area. Select the tree icon on the left-hand side. Click the ground to place the command.

2. Can I tell Kelvin to carry logs from a specific tree?

No, you cannot specify individual trees. He will prioritize trees closest to the command marker.

3. Does Kelvin need an axe to gather logs?

No, Kelvin does not need an axe equipped. He can magically summon one and start chopping.

4. How many logs can Kelvin carry at once?

Kelvin will only carry one log at a time, but strategic command placement makes him a very fast carrier.

5. Can Kelvin build structures with the logs he gathers?

Yes, you can tell Kelvin to help you build structures, such as cabins and walls, by pointing at blueprint and selecting the appropriate task on your notebook.

6. Does Kelvin get tired and need rest?

No, Kelvin does not require rest. He works tirelessly until instructed otherwise or encountering an impassable obstacle.

7. Can Kelvin carry logs through water?

Yes, Kelvin can wade through shallow water while carrying logs. However, he may struggle in deeper water, and the log might float away if he drowns.

8. What happens if Kelvin dies while carrying a log?

The log will drop where he falls, and you will need to retrieve it yourself.

9. Can I upgrade Kelvin’s log-carrying capacity?

No, there are no upgrades to Kelvin’s log-carrying capacity in the current version of the game.

10. Can Kelvin carry other resources besides logs?

Yes, Kelvin can carry other resources, such as fish. You can select the fish icon on the left-hand side of your notebook to order him to gather fish.

11. How far away can I place a command marker for Kelvin to follow?

There is no specific distance limit, but Kelvin’s pathfinding becomes less reliable over long distances, and performance may suffer. Keeping command markers relatively close to each other is recommended.

12. Does the difficulty setting affect Kelvin’s log-carrying abilities?

No, the difficulty setting does not directly affect Kelvin’s AI or his ability to carry logs.

13. Can I use Kelvin to defend my base while he’s carrying logs?

Kelvin cannot actively defend while carrying a log, and he is vulnerable to attacks. It’s best to protect him while he’s working or prioritize clearing enemies from the area.

14. Does Kelvin prioritize logs over other tasks?

Kelvin will generally prioritize the most recently issued command. If you tell him to gather logs, he will focus on that until you give him a different order.

15. Can I give Kelvin multiple commands at once?

You can give Kelvin multiple commands by placing several markers. He will try to follow the path that connects the markers. However, his interpretation of this can be unpredictable, so observing his actions and adjusting the marker placement is key to success.