My first playthrough was as a samurai. Being relatively new to From Software games, I played it very meticulously and cautiously. After beating the game, I farmed a bunch of levels (got up to 192) and prepared for my NG+ file, but first I wanted to start a fresh playthrough as a mage.
This time, I started as an astrologer. Having already completed the game, I didn't care about spoilers, so I checked how to get some good equipment/spells early, which of course led me to the Meteorite Staff. With that in hand, it's wild how easily I've been making my way through the game compared to the first time. After getting my staff and a few levels, I basically made a beeline straight for Godrick and destroyed everything in my way. Afterwards, I ran through the academy and defeated Rennala.
That's when I did need to stop and gain some more levels, primarily for additional HP. Since then, though, it's been smooth sailing.
This time, I started as an astrologer. Having already completed the game, I didn't care about spoilers, so I checked how to get some good equipment/spells early, which of course led me to the Meteorite Staff. With that in hand, it's wild how easily I've been making my way through the game compared to the first time. After getting my staff and a few levels, I basically made a beeline straight for Godrick and destroyed everything in my way. Afterwards, I ran through the academy and defeated Rennala.
That's when I did need to stop and gain some more levels, primarily for additional HP. Since then, though, it's been smooth sailing.