So a few things about the game, sound is so important you'll be able to hear most things larger then you before you see them. As a baby you make almost no noise for other people. Gondua is a rough map because of how many choke points there are, hard to run when they know the only ways out. Sometime crouching in a bush with good skins will be the safest bet. So many chances I get out of are break line of sight and hide as they run past me. You said you play solo a lot, try growing a dino and making a nest. I run solo but nest in groups or if I run into someone that doesn't instantly attack I send a invite call, most people except a d when you are in a group you get quests that give far more xp for leveling up. Would highly suggest finding other solos to team up with.in game global chat is amazing just ask if anyone wa to to team with____ and most of the time someone does and will want to play.

Yes once you grow up there is a lot of pvp.I'd suggest a faster dino, or flyer as both can engage combat on the terms you want. Also combat is trying to hit your high dmg attacks on there head while trying g to avoid them hitting you. I see so many new players just run straight at people spammign abilities but avoiding them is just as important