If you are playing a melee character, consider getting 2 ranks of Shield because one of your companions (Martyn Snow in 7.1) has an unused shield in his inventory.

Companions get exp from area exploration and quests too so I like to start with 'gather companions' option and get all the free ones to start leveling them up.

War cleavers are usually a good one-handed weapon choice as they are fast, hits hard, simple (it's a slashing-only weapon), and relatively cheap - a masterwork one-handed one usually runs at 1500 or so.

A good set of armor and a fast weapon make it a LOT easier. 2k-6k if you bet 500 on yourself and win all the one on one duels.

Tournaments are the best way to make money (as of 7.1).

They are in towns, ruins, and a few special ones: one in the hills of Dragonstone, and one in Brookwater Keep (only accessible while doing a quest).

Hidden chests can have VERY nice items.

Best Bow is Dragonbone bow (Essos cities). If you like to be an archer the best armor I've found without penalty is the Brigandine (43 body) (Reach cities). You need 20 strength to wear the best Full Plate armours (80+ body, 30+ leg). You need that much to hold a sword, but if you prefer to be an archer Power Draw is also a strength-based skill (4 ranks of Power Draw will last you a fair amount of time).

Start the game with a minimum of 12 strength.

Talk to Guildmasters to get easy 300exp.

You can get to level 5-8 and over $4000 within 5-10 game days just from exploring areas in Westeros. Each area can give up to 800xp and most have a hidden chest with valuable items. Outside of that, you can farm renown and honor by donating money in random events.

Completing the first 4 easy quests should give enough renown to start recruiting. Most of this guide applies to all versions after ACOK 4.1 but this is written specifically around ACOK 7.1. This guide details the FASTEST way I have found to level up, make money, and be able to run around the map with out being scared of your shadow. I really enjoy the quests, lore and gameplay of this mod but I find it most enjoyable after the early game grind. Renown is required to hire units from villages and if you can't hire units it's very difficult to solo the bandit parties in the early game.

1.2 Optimized start sequence (First 20-30 days):ĪCOK has a reputation for being a tough mod to start.

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