The dev has stated multiple times that they really think the exploration aspect of Valheim is what offers the best experience. In that spirit they have also claimed multiple times that they haven't divulged much of what the update will add so that it will be a surprise for the player base. I really do think that there will be more than meets the eye here, and new stuff to find in the biomes and/or merchant, that will open up new possibilities that aren't strictly base building and cooking.