Beginner's Guide to Dragon's Dogma 2

New to Dragon's Dogma 2? This guide covers getting started, vocations, combat, pawns, and exploration.

Getting Started

1Dragon's Dogma 2 is an open-world action RPG focused on exploration, combat, and the Pawn companion system.
2Character creation is detailed and permanent for body type -- spend time getting your Arisen right from the start.
3The game auto-saves frequently but only maintains one save slot -- be mindful of your decisions as they are permanent.
4Early game areas around Vernworth are relatively safe -- use them to learn mechanics before venturing into the wilds.
5Fast travel is limited by Portcrystals and Ferrystones -- walking is intended and rewards exploration with hidden discoveries.

1Four basic vocations are available at the start: Fighter, Archer, Mage, and Thief -- each suits a different playstyle.
2You can change vocations at any time at a Vocation Guild, so do not stress about your initial choice.
3Advanced vocations (Warrior, Sorcerer, Mystic Spearhand, Magick Archer) unlock as you progress and visit Vocation Guilds.
4Leveling different vocations grants augments (passive bonuses) usable across all vocations -- experiment to build a versatile kit.
5Your main Pawn can also change vocations but cannot use hybrid or mystic vocations like Trickster or Warfarer.

1Light attacks are fast and safe while heavy attacks deal more damage but leave you vulnerable -- mix both for effective combat.
2Each vocation has unique weapon skills that unlock as you level -- assign them to customize your combat style.
3Grabbing enemies (and climbing large monsters) is a core mechanic -- hold grab to cling to monsters and strike weak points.
4Stamina management is crucial. Running, climbing, and using skills all consume stamina -- rest at inns or eat food to restore it.
5Elemental weaknesses matter greatly. Use your Mage Pawn to enchant weapons with the element that an enemy is weak to.

1Your main Pawn is a permanent AI companion created early in the game -- they fight alongside you and learn from your actions.
2Hire two additional Pawns from other players via Riftstones to fill out your party of four.
3Pawns learn quest solutions, monster weaknesses, and map knowledge -- well-traveled Pawns are incredibly helpful.
4Watch for Dragonsplague (glowing red eyes, defiant behavior) -- it spreads between Pawns and has devastating consequences.
5Rate and gift Pawns when you release them to earn goodwill and Rift Crystals from the Pawn community.

1Vernworth is the main hub city -- visit shops, the Vocation Guild, the Pawn Guild, and the inn regularly.
2Oxcarts provide affordable travel between major cities but can be ambushed by monsters during the journey.
3Night travel is dangerous with stronger enemies spawning, but rewards include rare materials and unique encounters.
4Place Portcrystals at locations you visit frequently to create personal fast travel waypoints.
5Check every cave, cliff edge, and ruined structure -- the world is packed with treasure, lore, and secret paths.