Overview
Get stronger through exploration without relying on dubious farming exploits.
How it works
This guide breaks the topic into the concrete decisions that matter in an actual playthrough, separating progression requirements from optional improvements.
How to approach it
Follow the stages in order, then use the linked character, region, boss and equipment references when you need more detail.
Common mistakes
Do not assume optional steps are mandatory or that all encounters remain unchanged after major story progression.
Runes and safe progression: level efficiently: step by step
Runes as two resources
Runes buy levels and items, making an unspent large amount a risk in a new boss attempt. Spend them before dangerous routes if possible.
Upgrade priorities
A few points in HP or a weapon upgrade can be worth more than repeated farming. Compare survivability and damage after each major item or level gain.
Safe routes
Short clearable caves, field encounters you already understand and late-game areas can yield runes. Enemy payout changes with region and cycle.
What not to do
Avoid promising fixed rune-per-hour figures: version changes, loadout and player skill make these misleading. Seek sustainable routes you can clear consistently.