I've played for a bit and read the comments, so I can give you sort of a rundown on the gameplay part at least. Progression is tied to gear. The idea in the early game is to focus on earning money. One way is dropping off resources in the market crate and selling stuff to NPCs. The NPCs can also give you very strange "AI generated" items. Like I once got a "set of clothes" from Celandine that was actually a tent, which is a good item if you plan on staying in the field, but also worth 150 gold. It is very possible to basically live off the generosity of the AI NPCs. You can acquire gear from the NPC method, or by exploring the word and finding chest in ruins, or going to one of 3 dungeons (I believe they're supposed to be taking in order, but I don't know for sure.) As far as I'm aware, there's 3 tiers. Linen, Leather, and Iron. I heard the third dungeon has "metal" gear, but again, I have no idea for sure. The "first" dungeon, the cave, is north-east of Silverpine (follow the road east until you find a fork that goes north.) There are traps in this dungeon and you will need a lantern in certain parts. I believe having full leather gear, obtainable from Aldrich's shop when it's in stock, will help a lot. Now, as of how to strengthen the gear? I haven't a clue beyond buying the quality enhancing rune from the shop. I also believe their MIGHT be a way to craft metal gear, but I honestly have no idea, because the metalworking bench just seems to repair it.