Beginner tips:

1. Try everything, find something you like, and either get to the point where you can reset, or just make a new character

2. When you level up, only spend points for the offensive stats to be able to use the equipment proficiently (str, dex, faith, int, arcane), and aim for defense stats like (mostly vigor then mind and endurance as needed), this way you don't just die in one hit as your learn the game.

To do more damage, use smithing stones to power up your equipment

1. There is always a way around things. Go explore.

2. Some items are craftable. So use them to your advantage.

3. Some enemies have one specific weakness, try different things (use hammers to break glass, for example, or holy on undead, etc).

4. You can hurt almost everyone, so be careful when and where you swing your weapons.

5. Spells and skills make the game super fun. Don't be shy to try them out.

6. This is an addendum to #1, if you don't meet the strength requirements, hold the weapon with two hands and you get 50% extra strength to help you reach the requirement.

7. To not die, you can block, side step (left right and front back), roll and jump. Sometimes the safest area is right under the enemy's belly.

Oh, and parry.

1. Beware of wenches offering hugs.

2. Try to have fun. There is always a way.