Starting your journey in Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura can be daunting. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for beginners, focusing on the initial steps and quests in the game, particularly in Shrouded Hills. From character creation to navigating the early game challenges, we will equip you with the knowledge needed for a successful “Anfang” (beginning) in this rich and complex world.
Embracing the Beginning: Character Creation and Wake of the Crash
Your adventure begins with character creation. For new players, a magic-focused build is recommended for its ease of use, especially in the early stages. The “Harm” spell, for example, proves highly effective against initial enemies.
Following the character creation, you’ll find yourself at the Wake of the Crash. Here, you’ll meet Virgil, a monk who can become a valuable companion. Treat him well to increase his reaction towards you and recruit him into your party. Allow Virgil to wait during combat while you utilize your magic skills; “Harm” will suffice for most encounters. Remember to loot all bodies for valuable items, including a camera and Wilhemma’s note. These items will prove useful later in your journey. Don’t forget to open the Industrial Savage and Magical chests before proceeding.
Explore the nearby cave, battling sewer rats easily dispatched with “Harm.” You’ll encounter the spirit of Charles Brehgo, an evil thief who offers a tempting quest. Accept his quest to begin your first adventure in Arcanum.
Arbalah’s Artifact and the Path to Shrouded Hills
Brehgo’s quest leads you to Arbalah, who tasks you with retrieving a stolen artifact from Simon. Locate Simon and either intimidate or defeat him to recover the artifact. Return it to Arbalah for a blessing and experience points.
Alternatively, for those seeking a darker path, you can choose to attack and kill Arbalah. This less noble approach grants more experience but may lead to negative consequences later in the game. Report back to Brehgo regardless of your choice regarding Arbalah.
Before heading to Shrouded Hills, be prepared for a possible encounter with a Molochean Hand assassin near the altar. Utilize Virgil’s conversational skills or engage in combat to overcome this threat.
Shrouded Hills: A Haven for Quests and Intrigue
Shrouded Hills offers a safe haven and a wealth of quests. Upon arriving at the inn, you’ll discover a disturbing scene – two corpses and a letter hinting at a deeper mystery. Here are some notable quests you can undertake:
- The Bank Robbery: Assist Jacob Bens in robbing the bank or side with Doc Roberts to thwart the robbery. Your choices have significant impact on your reputation within the town.
- Sabotage and Repair: Help Jongle Dunn destroy the town’s steam engine, then later undertake the task of repairing it.
- Percival’s Plight: Aid Percival Toone in resolving the haunting of the Bessie Toone Mine, a quest that leads to further adventures in Dernholm and Tarant.
- The Bridge Thieves: Confront the thieves at the bridge, either through combat or clever negotiation.
Unraveling the Main Plot: The Mystery of the Ring
Central to the Shrouded Hills storyline is the mystery surrounding a ring given to you by the dwarf Stennar. Visit Ristzee’s General Store to uncover information about the ring. You can gain this knowledge by trading items found at the Crash Site and Bessie Toone Mine, skillfully conversing with Ristzee, or resorting to theft. Uncovering the secrets of the ring sets you on the path to unraveling the larger mysteries of Arcanum. This knowledge will lead you to P. Schuyler & Sons, an important location in Tarant connected to the main storyline.
This guide provides a solid foundation for your beginning in Arcanum. Remember to explore, experiment, and forge your own path in this fascinating world. Good luck, adventurer!
