The Relic First Guardian launch guide — buy, install and setup

Purchase, install and controller setup

This page owns purchase, installation, controller and first-boot preparation. It does not replace the complete systems-and-growth guide or the short first-session checklist: continue to the beginner guide for mechanics and progression, or quick start for the four gameplay actions to do first.

Before you press Play

Use this checklist to avoid mixing current launch facts with old pre-release pages:

1. Confirm the store and platform. This guide covers the released Windows version on Steam.
2. Check the price in your region. The US listing shows $49.99, but currency and tax vary.
3. Check hardware on the live store page. Requirements can change after launch; do not rely on an old screenshot.
4. Update the controller and GPU drivers. Steam marks the game Full Controller Support and recommends a gamepad. Patch 14 remaps Dodge from Gamepad Bottom Button (Face Button Down) to Gamepad Right Button (Face Button Right).
5. Leave update space. The store’s install size is not a guarantee of every future patch size.

The FAQ tracks demo, Deck, multiplayer and achievement status. It is separate from this play checklist so unknown features do not get presented as launch promises.

First-boot handoff

After the purchase, installation and controller checks, use the other pages for gameplay rather than repeating their intent here:

• Follow quick start for the short first-session actions.
• Read the beginner guide for stamina, weapons, relics and boss-led growth.
• Use the weapons guide for confirmed masteries and skill-tree facts.

If the game shows a checkpoint or save state during that first session, confirm it on screen before ending the session. Do not assume that collecting an item, opening a menu or reaching a new room forces an immediate save.

Patch 14 controls and Sealing Stones (official)

The official Patch 14 notes (21 August 2026, UK time) remap Dodge from Gamepad Bottom Button (Face Button Down) to Gamepad Right Button (Face Button Right). Input handling for Attack, Guard, Dodge, Movement and Skills is listed as improved. Recheck in-game prompts after updating; this page does not invent a full binding chart.

The same patch grants the two Sealing Stones on start or load instead of a chest. Patch 13 names them Sealing Stone of Gratitude and Sealing Stone of the First Oath and says they unlock future dungeons, not content playable today. Details are on relics, runes and progression.

Settings baseline

Start with the game’s default preset, then change one category at a time:

• lower costly graphics options if frame pacing interferes with dodge timing;
• adjust camera sensitivity until a single stick movement does not overcorrect;
• keep subtitles on while learning names for relics, runes and locations;
• check vibration and motion options according to the controller actually connected;
• use accessibility options shown by the game instead of assuming an option exists.

This page does not publish a universal “best settings” table because hardware, resolution and controller models differ. A trustworthy performance preset needs a named device and measured build.

What not to trust on launch week

Be cautious with code lists when no official redeem menu is documented, “100% complete” maps without version information, tier lists that do not explain testing conditions, and downloads hosted outside official stores. For factual changes, prefer the current Steam page and publisher announcements.

Once setup is complete, continue to quick start for the short first-session route or the beginner guide for the broader system overview. Use the boss guide only where its claims are marked with their verification status.