How to start Dwarf Fortress


Dwarf Fortress' map

Undoubtedly, the early stages in any game are one of the most important. And the start in Dwarf Fortress is not an exception. The better you start, the less time you will spend in the early game. By reading this guide, you will find out how to start Dwarf Fortress.

There will be the primary settings you should use and a guide on how to pick the best location in Dwarf Fortress.

And while you are here, make sure to read our list of the best action games for Android. Also, feel free to check our list of the best multiplayer games for Android.

How to Start Dwarf Fortress

Dwarf Fortress' gameplay
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Dwarf Fortress perfect basic setup

The first thing you should do before even starting the game is to set up your game correctly. There are various extra functions in Dwarf Fortress that can make the game harder for you and the best option is to turn them off. Nothing is challenging about it.

First, open the game folder and find the data folder here. Open this folder and select the init folder. Feel free to open it and edit the settings described below.

  • Sound: No
  • Intro: No
  • WindowEDX: 1600
  • WindowEDY: 900
  • Font: Tileset. png

Also, it would be best if you open the colors text document and also change them. The fact is that the primary color spectrum in Dwarf Fortress is too dull. Therefore, it would be best to change it.

What Location to Choose in Dwarf Fortress?

Once you make a perfect setup, you need to create the world and start playing the game. At this point, you need to choose the primary location in the game. And the foremost thing you should know is that it would be best to avoid aquifers.

Aquifers can cause flooding underground and various other problems that might be fatal at the early stages. So, simply avoid them while creating the world.

Use Z Menu

Z Menu is one of the most important things in Dwarf Fortress. This option allows you to see your colony overview. You can find the exact number of dwarfs that you have and various other pieces of helpful information.

Moreover, there will be info about created Wealth and Food Stores. So, feel free to use it as you progress in the game.

Take Your Time

The foremost thing you should know is that Dwarf Fortress is not a sprint video game, it is really complex. And if you want to progress effectively and succeed in this game, you should take your time and figure everything out step-by-step.

Dwarf Fortress' updated map
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Build Correctly

And the last thing you should know is that building properly is important in Dwarf Fortress. Try to build relevant things next to each other to reach the highest productivity. Also, you can separate the map into a few areas and focus every region on a specific industry.

In conclusion, even though the early game’s stages are the most challenging period in Dwarf Fortress, you can easily complete them with our guide. Just keep in mind that you need to consider every move and make everything to protect your citizens. And while you are still here, make sure to check our list of the best strategy games for Android.

For more articles like this, take a look at our Guides and Dwarf Fortress page.