Starting out in Palworld can be overwhelming. Between managing your hunger, fighting off aggressive Pals, and building your first base, there is a lot to learn. If you want to get ahead quickly, follow this essential beginner's guide to dominate the early game.
1. Catch Everything You See
The fastest way to level up in Palworld isn't by fighting or crafting—it's by catching Pals. The game rewards you with a massive Experience Point (EXP) bonus for the first 10 catches of every single Pal species. Even if you already have a Lamball or Chikipi, keep catching them until you hit that 10/10 milestone.
2. Choose the Right Location for Your First Base
Do not just build your base anywhere. The ideal early-game base location should have:
- Plenty of flat land for building structures.
- Close proximity to Wood and Stone nodes.
- Ideally, access to early Ore deposits.
The Plateau of Beginnings is decent, but moving slightly downhill towards the Rayne Syndicate Tower offers better resources and flatter terrain.
3. Automate Your Base Early
Your Pals are your workforce. As soon as you build a Palbox, assign Pals to do your chores. Cattiva is excellent for early mining and gathering, while Lifmunk can chop wood and help with planting. Check each Pal's Work Suitability in their summary screen and build facilities that match their skills.
4. Craft the Glider and Grappling Gun
Mobility is crucial. Before you get a flying mount, the Normal Parachute (and later the Glider) will save you from fall damage and help you traverse gaps. Even better, craft the Grappling Gun as soon as you unlock it in the Technology tree. It allows you to move quickly even when you are over-encumbered with heavy resources like Ore.
5. Farm Berries for Infinite Food
Hunger is a constant threat in the early game. The solution is simple: Berry Plantations. Build two or three Berry Plantations in your base, assign a Pal that can Plant (like Lifmunk or Tanzee), one that can Water (like Pengullet), and one that can Gather. You will have a fully automated food source that keeps both you and your Pals fed forever.