Upon starting a new settlement, your first priority is to secure basic resources. Immediately assign villagers to gather wood from nearby trees and stone from deposits. Construct a Woodcutter's Camp and a Stonecutter's Camp. Next, build a Hearth to provide warmth, shelter, and a crucial Reputation bonus. Ensure you have enough housing for your initial villagers.
Focus on fulfilling basic needs like food and shelter. Explore nearby glades cautiously, as they often contain valuable resources but also dangerous events. Prioritize building a Field Kitchen early to process raw food into edible meals, boosting morale and preventing starvation. Don't overextend your resource gathering too quickly.