Dark Souls - Any tips?

[SwagBite]

Hello all, I'm just starting out in Dark Souls, and I was wondering if any experienced players could part with a few words of wisdom?

 

[Kasawd]

The Pyromancer is an excellent starting class, as it begins with soul level one, a set of flame resistant robes and fairly even statistics. Soul level one means that the first few additions to your statistics will be cheaper than the other classes. Simply, remember to place the beginning shield as soon as possible. Get the hang of rolling, as you'll be using it quite a bit.

 

[SwagBite]

What stats should I focus on? I feel compelled to pump points into strength or dexterity for weapon damage, is this a good tactic?

 

[Obsideo]

Strength helps out early on because it lets you use better weapons as you find them.
I'd recommend having at least 14 strength so you can use the Drake sword, which is a sword that you can obtain by shooting the tail of the wyvern on the bridge pretty early on in the game.

Anyway, good luck and happy dying!

 

[Kasawd]

What stats should I focus on? I feel compelled to pump points into strength or dexterity for weapon damage, is this a good tactic?

It depends on the type of character you want to play, though, Vitality and Endurance are needed for every type of character and you'll want a modest amount of it.

EDIT: Pyromancers, however, are perfectly capable of mixing up magic and melee attacks. Attunement, intelligence, vitality and endurance are great. Resistance doesn't hurt, either, for that matter. The beauty of the game is your ability to flex your character to how you want them to be.

 

[Fat Hippo]

Find your inner peace before playing. If you're already pissed when you start the game, you're only gonna get more pissed every time you die, and that's no fun. To enjoy it, you need some serious Zen, especially if you get angry easily, like myself. Just accept death as part of the journey.
I had a few experiences where played in an already somewhat exhausted and exasperated state. There's just no point if you can't use your full concentration and keep your cool.

Also, if you aren't playing as a thief, pick the master key or whatever it's called as your starting gift. It seems the best, imo.