TL;DR
- Prioritize Runecrafting to level 18 for all essential runes and fast travel capabilities
- Level Woodcutting to at least 40 for reduced stamina costs and Axtral Projection spell
- Master Construction for efficient base building and resource storage optimization
- Develop Attack skills early to handle environmental threats and resource gathering challenges
- Focus on skill synergies between resource gathering and combat for maximum efficiency
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RuneScape: Dragonwilds represents a significant departure from the traditional MMO format that has defined the franchise for more than twenty years. While it shares the skill-based progression system familiar to veteran players, this survival-focused iteration transforms how you approach character development. Each skill functions as an independent progression track where repeated practice through related activities gradually increases your proficiency level.
The current early access version includes seven fully functional skills out of the planned nine-skill system. Ranged and Magic combat disciplines will be introduced in subsequent updates, leaving players to master the foundational abilities first. Understanding which skills to prioritize can dramatically reduce the early-game learning curve and accelerate your overall progression.
Runecrafting: Your Gateway to Magic and Mobility
Runecrafting stands as the most critical early-game skill due to its dual role in spellcasting and transportation. Unlike the tedious process in traditional RuneScape MMOs, Dragonwilds streamlines rune creation through bulk processing at Rune Altars. You’ll need to gather Rune Essence through mining, then convert it into functional runes at dedicated crafting stations.
The essential threshold is level 18, which unlocks all six currently available rune types. However, pushing to level 27 provides additional utility through a torch-creating spell and a passive ability that reduces Rune Essence weight. This weight reduction proves invaluable when transporting large quantities of materials across the game world.
Common Mistake: Many players underestimate their rune needs and find themselves repeatedly returning to craft more. A better approach involves crafting 200-300 of each rune type during each session to minimize travel time.
Woodcutting: Foundation of Survival and Construction
Woodcutting serves as the backbone of your survival efforts in Dragonwilds, providing essential materials for base construction, equipment crafting, and alchemical preparations. As you advance this skill, the stamina consumption per chop decreases significantly, allowing for more efficient resource gathering.
The standout ability is Axtral Projection, acquired through progression, which enables instant tree felling. This spell becomes particularly valuable when clearing large areas for construction or when you need wood urgently for critical projects.
Reaching level 40 unlocks all primary Woodcutting abilities, including the capacity to destroy Thorny Vines that block exploration routes. The maximum attainable level is currently 49, providing additional efficiency bonuses beyond the core skill set.
Construction: Building Your Strategic Foundation
Construction transforms your gathered resources into functional infrastructure that supports all other activities. From basic shelters to advanced storage solutions, this skill determines your operational efficiency throughout Dragonwilds.
Pro Tip: Always build the Wood Storage structure early, as it automatically organizes and protects your lumber supplies from environmental degradation.
Attack: Essential for Resource Security
While not as complex as the traditional RuneScape combat system, Attack remains crucial for dealing with hostile wildlife and environmental threats. A balanced approach to weapon proficiency ensures you can protect your gathering operations and explore dangerous areas safely.
Mastering skill interdependencies represents the next level of Dragonwilds proficiency. For example, higher Woodcutting levels reduce the time spent gathering materials for Construction projects, while improved Runecrafting enables faster travel between resource locations. This creates a positive feedback loop where each skill enhancement accelerates progress in others.
Optimization Strategy: Dedicate specific play sessions to focused skill training rather than attempting balanced progression across all abilities simultaneously. This approach yields faster leveling through concentrated effort and minimizes context-switching penalties.
Time investment varies significantly between skills. Runecrafting typically requires 4-6 hours to reach level 18, while Woodcutting to level 40 may take 8-10 hours depending on your gathering efficiency. Construction progresses fastest when you plan multiple building projects in advance to minimize material transportation time.
As you advance through our Class Guide, you’ll notice similar specialization principles apply to skill development in Dragonwilds. The key is identifying which abilities provide the greatest return on your time investment during each phase of gameplay.
Action Checklist
- Focus Runecrafting to level 18 for complete rune access and Lodestone fast travel
- Develop Woodcutting to level 40 for Axtral Projection and reduced stamina costs
- Build Wood Storage structure immediately after reaching Construction level 15
- Craft 200-300 of each rune type during sessions to minimize travel time
- Implement focused training sessions rather than balanced progression across all skills
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Best Skills To Improve Early In RuneScape: Dragonwilds Master the essential skills in RuneScape: Dragonwilds to optimize your early-game progression and build efficiency