Could someone help a newbie at the game?

[Paratech2008]

No, I don't have the game here, but on GOG. So far nobody there has responded to my request for help.

I want to enjoy the game. I'm interested in learning the basics. I'd appreciate advice.

I just suck at playing it, I can't get very far in the first dungeon. I don't understand how to level up, equip items, use inventory, any of the basics.

Thanks in advance.

[Oguzhan]

First off, are you playing with a controller?

I ask this because, I legit think that this game is better played with a keyboard.

[Paratech2008]

Yeah a controller.

[Oguzhan]

Originally posted by Paratech2008:

Yeah a controller.

Ok, I think you should give the keyboard and mouse controls a try. While the game can be played with a conroller and I do think that the sequel is better played with a controller, keyboard and mouse makes inventory management and what not MUCH easier since you can use the mouse OR 1,2,3,4,5.... buttons (my preferred method) (its kinda like terraria in that its more convinient) . It is possible to play the game with just keyboard or just mouse too but I like to combine the 2.

The game has 8 directional movements and not in between unlike other falcom games like trails and Ys (to compare it to the 2d games).

Rapid auto fire: You can auto fire with both characters (I only recommend doing it with Pipiro) by rapidly pressing the fire button on the mouse and then holding it.

Charge attacks: Hold down the attack button (without activating rapid ) to do your charge attacks. These are great and you can get access to these very early on in the game. Find the animal buddy for a stronger one.

Explore: This is quite non-linear. I usually go after the elemental orbs first so that I have access to all of that magic and their useful arcs.

Food: If you want you can grind food and level up. Its not needed but its there.

Beware of the strong enemies: These are only a problem in the first dungeon but you should take your time with these. The one that comes to my mind is the dragon in the first water dungeon.

Guide: I wouldn't call this a guide game but if you are lost you can use a guide. And I am saying this as a person who had to use one for the beginning since this game is 100% not hand holding.

https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/psp/952824-zwei/faqs/15519

This is the one that I used.

[Oguzhan]

One last thing, elemental orbs are really useful. All of them are equal in usefulness as its all about their arcs. Even the ones with similar arcs. For example both fire and water shoot straight BUT water is more wide and a bit slower so its good in crowd control.

[Paratech2008]

Thanks.