Starter Dungeon

[Fullerton]

http://en.uesp.net/wiki/File:AR-Map-Imp ... ngeons.png

When I follow Ria Silmane's instructions, going west then south, I always find myself at the water unable to get up because of goblins in the way. Consequently, I always die there.

Whereas, if I follow a different path and go north, then west, then south to the Shift Gate, I finish at at least level three, with at least 500 gold, with enough loot to make 500 more gold, and barely any damage taken.

Am I doing something stupid, or is it actually a better option?

[deadfong]

I just began an new playthrough this morning. Explored the entire sewer and left at 4th level, with several magic items and an ebony helm I sold for 30K+ gp. Taking some time to explore the starter dungeon is always, I think, the better option.

[MrFlibble]

Taking some time to explore the starter dungeon is always, I think, the better option.

That. I also remember just exploring the entire dungeon, the automap gets filled in as you go, and you'll get better equipment and more XP that way.

[SeaGtGruff]

I've settled down to a strategy of hanging out in my cell for a while, sleeping in the corner rather than on the rock bed so random enemies will attack. That can be brutal until you get some armor, so constant saving is a must. And I don't carry any extra weapons or armor unless they're magical. I do pick everything up just to make sure there are no magical items, but drop them if they aren't magical and are no better than what I've already got. I don't leave my cell until it's packed with piles of discarded loot and there's no more room to drop anything else.

But getting back to the original post, you should be able to creep forward without actually going into the water, and hit the goblins from across the water-- I guess unless you can't reach them with your weapon (I've never used anything shorter than a sword). As long as you don't get too close to them, they'll keep running toward the water and won't attack you, so you can just hack and slash away until they're dead.

Or, if you do fall into the water, you might be able to climb up on their side if there's any space between them. But it's better to turn around and climb back up on your side, then attack them from across the water.