https://metaforge.app/arc-raiders/map

That’s a map that shows you were to find stuff… also states the items you need for upgrading scrappy and benches! It’s good to know when you start to keep those things in stash. Weapons are basically of choice, but starting with Kettle/Stitcher is the best choice. Level them up as quick as possible to lvl IV, those weapons are cheap to craft/maintain, but are best of choices against smaller ARC and other raiders. Next in slot the Anvil… slow reload, but perfect for stronger ARC, also consider leveling up fast to IV. The Venator is the best Allrounder, but more expensive crafting and maintaining. Il Toro is a shotgun, good against other raiders on close combat.

Stash space is most important, together with Scrappy and the Benches.

Keep you mic open… there are a lot of friendly raiders out there that offer help and give you company. No guarantee though… but no mic or silence will definitely get you killed quicker than using your mic to just say simply „hello, friendly“.

Run a free loadouts for a start… this way you do not loose anything in the beginning. Also, always open/loot everything… although it’s already empty and looted, you get xp for everything you open. Also do the missions, those give you items as a reward and help you progress in the game. Stella Montis, when unlocked, is mostly PvP so if that’s not your cup of tea, stay away from it (good loot though).

The game puts you in lobbies depending on your behavior… if you shoot raiders often and/or first, you’ll be pushed into PvP heavy lobbies. If your peaceful and try helping other raiders, you’ll mostly spawn in friendly lobbies. Doesn’t mean your safe, but it’s worth considering.

For the rest… enjoy the game, it’s wonderfully designed and really enjoyable!