With the release of Elden Ring (FromSoft), there have been countless tips for newbs videos and articles. They’re probably helpful because these are from reputable From fans who want to help non-From fans who are intimidated by the games. As I watched them, however, I thought about how they wouldn’t help me much because of the way my brain works. So, I decided to write my own list of tips for n00bs (not necessarily ten; that’s just for the title. I’ll go until I stop) in case I could be of some use to someone.
1. Don’t be the Confessor. I know that’s very specific, but I’ll expand it in a minute. I’m the Confessor because I read that this was the strengthcasting class that is a hybrid of bonking and spelling. It starts with two incantations and both are useful. However, they are defensive rather than offensive and I read that spells and incantations are plentiful in the world. Which they might be, but not in the first area. In twelve hours, I did not find a single one. And I was not able to buy a bow until hour eight or so. Bows are great in this game, though, so it was worth the wait. But still, arrows are not unlimited and they’re not cheap. I would have liked to have ranged spells/incantations for the first dozen hours because that’s an integral part of my playstyle.
To expand past that, know your own playstyle. Do you want to dual wield? The Warrior is your class. Do you want to go around, chonking and bonking? Hero is your class–not the Warrior. Despite the name, that is a dex class not a strength one. Pure intelligence? The Astrologer is your class, etc. Read one of those ‘which starting class is for you’ and stay away from the Wretch. You’ll be able to shape your build however you want, but you might as well give you a boost to start.
2. Jump in the chasm in the beginning because that’s the tutorial. And take your time. There is so much to do in the game and it can put your brain on overload. At least it can mine. All the tutorials are in your inventory, by the way, under info. Feel free to check it out if you don’t remember everything that is thrown at you on a regular basis.