Any quick tips of make sure do do this, don't do that, etc?
Are estus shards to be saved or just used?
I'm still at work so can't speak to DS3 in particular, however if it's like previous games you should just use it and upgrade your flask. It gives you one extra flask charge which is super helpful.
As for quick tips...
- Don't use the consumable souls unless you must! AKA, don't simply immediately use them when you get them. Use them if you are trying to level up and are a bit out of reach or are trying to buy an item, then consume them and use them. Reason being is that it would be a big waste to use a consumable soul and then die and lose it.
- Starting class really doesn't matter much. It just sets a starting stats, and if you respec later on, I believe it resets the stats back to what your chosen starter "class" has.
- Always be aware of how many souls you have stored up and it's best to keep in mind your next goal (which many times will be just to level up). Be aware of that cost. Don't be afraid to turn around in a new area and head back to the bonfire to level up and use your souls. Sure, you'll have to fight the enemies again, but you'll be stronger and will also have less to lose.
- Don't be afraid to just sprint through an area and bypass the enemies. They'll typically follow you, but if you get to a bonfire they'll reset.
- If something seems slightly too hard, you can always just grind an area for souls to level up or upgrade gear. Eventually it stops spawning enemies in areas though so you can't do it forever.
- As with any Souls game, if you enter an area which seems absolutely ridiculously hard or you just feel like you're doing it wrong, don't forget to just explore other areas. Maybe there was a path choice you forget to make somewhere in another area which gives you a critical item or something.
- And as with above, always pay attention to your environment! If there are multiple ways to go, don't forget to explore them all.
- Fashion souls is more important than anything. Found some better stats armor? Well, if it doesn't match your current outfit, it isn't worth shit!
