Navigating the world of Nightingale can be overwhelming, but I'll try to address some of the most pertinent questions in an FAQ or tips format.
Which Realmcards should they prioritize crafting?
I’ve already covered this question, providing a list of my favorite minor cards in a previous post. For progression, follow the questline and build the Mayor cards needed for your quests to unlock all the game's features and functionalities.
Where should they build a base?
I have a dedicated post about this too, but in summary, choose a building location that appeals to you aesthetically. After a few hours into the gameplay, appearance will be the primary factor to consider.
What are the most efficient ways to build and craft?
Since you get refunds when you scrap buildings and workstations, it’s efficient for mass production to build 2-4 of the same workstations for simultaneous production, and then dismantle the unnecessary ones for their components later. Consider realm minor cards like Artisan, which augment all crafting stations to the ideal environment. Don’t forget about Augmentations, which can dramatically change production times, reducing them significantly.
What equipment should they prioritize crafting?
Priority should be given to crafting a Hunting Knife at level 20 to skin Fable beasts and level 40 for Apex Bosses. Another important tool is the Mining Pick, with key thresholds at 10, 40, 100, 200, and 230. The Axe is also handy for cutting higher-tier wood, but it’s not as crucial as the Mining Pick. Both tools can also be used in combat. I recommend crafting Backpacks and Boots with ‘Movement Speed’ properties as well; time saved while traveling is a significant advantage in this game.
How much effort should they put into their first base?
I’d recommend minimal effort, because later in the game you will likely want to rebuild your base with the new designs and furniture you unlock.
Which enchantments, infusions, and charms should they work towards?
You can largely skip these until the mid-late game when you’ll be crafting min-max gear and need large amounts of materials for your base crafts. Good enchantments for melee combat are Quake for crowd control and Oberon’s for farming.
Which early clothing and weapons are the most effective?
Backpacks and Climbing Picks are essential. The former allows you to carry more, while the latter trivializes Agility Challenges.
Which biomes are best for gathering?
This depends on what materials you’re looking for, as each biome offers materials with different attributes. For example, you could set up a Swamp or Forest biome with the Trickster minor card to turn it into a meat farming zone, as both have plenty of grass which will yield meat.
What should they pursue and what should they avoid?
Avoid going too crazy with your initial base design and starting small is recommended. Also, don’t build all augmentations at once; workstations have limited slots, so only build those that give desired effects. Avoid using materials for crafting that provide non-existent bonuses on items. The crafting process itself could be a separate bounty – the difference in outcomes can be huge when you understand how to set up your workshop and how to min-max item crafting.
Pursue fun and play the game at your own pace. You can rush towards the end-game or stop and enjoy the moment at any given time.