Quick Diagnosis

ProblemCheck first
LostYour newest ability: cloak, claw, Dream Nail, wings
Boss wallMasks, nail level, notches, and nearest bench
Map confusionBuy map, quill, and compass before deep routing
Collectibles missingClean by region instead of roaming randomly
Ending anxietyPlan Essence and Void Heart before final cleanup

Common Beginner Questions

Where should I go first?

Follow ability gates: Forgotten Crossroads, Greenpath, Fungal Wastes, then City of Tears. Every new movement ability reopens older zones.

How do I stop dying to Hornet?

Do not chase her. Stay mid range, wait for a move to finish, punish briefly, and heal only during safe windows.

What charms should I use?

Exploration wants stability. Boss attempts want a charm setup that answers your actual death pattern.