There is a simple version of game guide cos and a complete version. Both are here, in that order.
If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. Treat the numbers as a guideline; your exact result depends on your setup and current version. It helps to know why a step exists, because then you can adapt it when your situation differs slightly.
The short answer
Do the straightforward version first; it solves this for most people, and the detailed section exists for when it does not.
The straightforward version
Understanding the reason behind a step lets you adapt it when your situation differs. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. It helps to know why a step exists, because then you can adapt it when your situation differs slightly. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.
Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.
Why it works
Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Small details matter more than they should here, so read the order of steps carefully. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.
- Back up your save if the game gives you the option.
- Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
- Write down what worked, in case you need it again later.
- Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.
Edge cases worth knowing
If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. Small details matter more than they should here, so read the order of steps carefully. It helps to know why a step exists, because then you can adapt it when your situation differs slightly. The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill.
Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The community figured most of this out through repetition, and the pattern has held up well. The result is consistent once the inputs are, which is less obvious than it sounds.
Mistakes worth avoiding
- Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
- Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.
- Skipping the preparation step because it looks boring, then repeating the hard part four times.
- Trusting a video thumbnail over the actual patch notes.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an easier way?
Often, but the easy route tends to be less reliable. The method above trades a couple of extra minutes for a result that works the first time.
Is there a faster method?
Usually yes, and usually it is riskier. The route above trades a little speed for a much lower chance of having to start over.
Does this apply to every version?
The steps target the current release. Older versions usually behave the same way, though menus may sit in different places.
Bookmark this if you expect to look up game guide cos again after the next update.