You'll start in a dust-filled area with limited visibility and rapidly depleting oxygen. Your primary goal is to find a way out of this hazardous zone. Follow the faint light sources and the on-screen prompts. You'll encounter your first Wanderers here, but they are slow and easily avoided. Focus on conserving your oxygen by moving efficiently and not engaging in unnecessary combat. Look for a path that leads to a more open, less dusty area. The game will guide you with subtle visual cues and objective markers. Don't linger, as your oxygen supply is finite and will lead to a quick death if not managed.
Along the way, you'll be prompted to pick up basic resources like wood and iron. Do so, as these will be vital for crafting later. You'll also learn how to use your binoculars to scout ahead. Use them to identify safe paths and potential threats. The dust significantly impairs your vision, so relying on sound and the mini-map is crucial. Once you reach the edge of the dust zone, a new objective will appear, signaling your progress.