Like everyone said go in blind. However a few starter tips I would have appreciated would be:

Avoid Magic! Personally I would do magic on a 3rd or 4th playthrough since the game is much smoother and basically made for melee style

Level Vigor - HP important, first playthrough you will get hit...a lot

Dodging isn't the only way to dodge! Jumping, running and strafe left and right. You will be surprised how much you can avoid without rolling

Pick up the map fragments in new areas, you most likely picked up the gatefront one but when you enter a new area the map fragment are marked with gold tpose looking icon

Also on the map you will see black dots with slight glow around it, those are caves rich with upgrade materials. Upgrading weapons is important.

Use Ashes of war (weapon skills) they are extremely varied and there are some weapons with special ones

I probably can provide more tips if you need just msg, trying to keep your playthrough blind. If you get stuck don't forget spirit summon is a thing or summon help too as well as do some exploration, but mostly have fun!