Dragon's Dogma beginners' guide - tips for starting your adventure

Respec or change your vocation at the Gran Soren Inn

If need be, make sure to change your Pawns class to something that will support you properly, and tweak the rest of your party as well. Also, if you change from Fighter to Mage, dont just sell that armor youre not using. Unless youre really hard up for cash, just store it at an inn, you or your Pawn might need it the next time you swap classes. Build up a versatile arsenal of vocations and equipment!

Watch your weight and manage your inventory

Dont worry about giving items to support Pawns, if they die or you ditch them, the items go to your storage at the inn. The only exception to this is gear, any armor or weapons you give them will become a gift to their owner - the game will warn you if you attempt to do this. Also, make good use of your storage at inns. Keep all your materials there, and have big combining sessions to mix up whatever curatives you can.

Fast travel with Ferrystones and Portcrystals, eventually

A Portcrystal, however, is a marvelous convenience. Youll earn one from a quest somewhat late in the game. Then, simply place the Portcrystal wherever you like, and you can be transported to its location instantly.

Play signed to Xbox Live or PSN

Your Pawn will sync every time you rest at an inn. If youre playing offline, your pawn wont be able to learn anything new, and youll miss out on the gifts other players may send you for making such a helpful Pawn.

Always rest before a quest. Always!

Sleeping at an inn not only restores your health and resets your ability to be healed, it allows you to maximize daylight. Gransys is a much meaner, harder to navigate place at night. Do all your errands and then rest until morning. Leaving first thing, bright and early, ensures you will have the maximum amount of daylight to accomplish your deed.

Pack plenty of oil and pass out lanterns

Then buy a few extra lanterns and give them to your Pawns. Turning every member of your team into a light source will make navigating at night or spelunking through dark caverns much more palatable. Dont just bump up the gamma like some washed up cheater (it doesnt even help that much)!

Are you stuck?

So where are you stuck? What do you need help with? Post your problems and wail your woes in the comments.

Alex Roth