Blade & Soul NEO Classic has arrived, bringing back the nostalgic action combat experience that many players remember. If you're new to the game or returning after a long time, leveling up efficiently and understanding the core mechanics is key. Having reached level 36, the current max level, I've compiled the most essential tips to help new players on their journey. Many of these address common questions frequently seen in world chat. Let's dive in!

1. Enable Blade & Soul Mode Immediately

One of the first things you should do after logging in is switch to "Blade & Soul Mode" in the settings. By default, the game starts you in "Normal Mode," which forces movement using the mouse—a setup that feels clunky for an action combat game like Blade & Soul.

To enable Blade & Soul Mode:

• Go to Settings

• Find the Control Mode section

• Switch from Normal Mode to Blade & Soul Mode

This change allows for a much smoother experience, giving you full control of movement and combat as intended.

2. Check Your Quest Letters (J Key)

A lot of important quests don't automatically appear in your main quest log. Instead, they show up as "Quest Letters" in a separate tab. Many players miss this and only discover it much later.

To check for these quests:

• Open your Quest Log (J Key)

• Navigate to the Quest Letters tab

• Accept any available quests

Many of these quests are crucial, unlocking additional content and features, so check regularly!

3. Do Side Quests for Valor Stones

A frequently asked question is, "Should I do side quests?" While they don't provide much XP, they reward Valor Stones, which are crucial for obtaining skill upgrades that significantly improve your damage and combat efficiency.

Why Side Quests Matter:

• They provide Valor Stones, which can be exchanged for Skill Books.

• Some offer useful rewards, such as the Priestess Weapon Psyche (which grants bonus stats like crit rate and block).

• Many side quests are located near your main quest objectives, so completing them doesn't require much extra effort.

You can approach side quests in two ways:

1. Complete them as you level up – This ensures you're always collecting Valor Stones.

2. Speedrun to Level 36, then return to do side quests – This makes them easier since you'll be stronger.

3. Either method works, but skipping them entirely is not recommended.

4. How to Use Valor Stones for Skill Books

Once you've collected Valor Stones from side quests, you'll want to trade them for Skill Books, which enhance your abilities. Here's how:

• Find the Nameless Agent NPC.

• Exchange 20 Valor Stones for different Skill Books.

• Select the Skill Book that best complements your build.

For example, Assassins can exchange a Skill Book to modify their "Cyclone Sweep" ability into "Shadow Drain," which allows them to return to stealth if the enemy is poisoned—a major DPS boost!

5. Equip Skill Books on Accessories

Once you obtain a Skill Book, you must equip it with an accessory to activate its effects. However, not all accessories support skill upgrades:

• Some accessories provide 0 skill slots (avoid these).

• Higher-tier accessories have 1-2 skill slots, allowing for multiple skill upgrades.

To equip a Skill Book:

1. Open your Inventory.

2. Click on the Skill Book and select an eligible accessory.

3. Confirm the transfer.

This process ensures you're maximizing your character's damage output.

6. Manage Your Leveling Strategy

Leveling to 36 is relatively fast, taking around 5-6 hours if you focus purely on the Yellow Main Quests. However, incorporating Side Quests will provide long-term benefits. Consider these leveling strategies:

• Fastest route: Focus only on Main Quests (Yellow) and reach max level quickly.

• Balanced route: Do Main Quests while completing nearby Side Quests.

• Completionist route: Complete every quest in an area before moving forward.

Each approach has pros and cons, so choose what fits your playstyle best.

7. Optimize Your Equipment Early

While leveling, you'll obtain different gear upgrades. Make sure to:

• Equip Psyches (like the Priestess Weapon Psyche) for bonus stats.

• Upgrade weapons and accessories using materials obtained from quests.

• Check for item compatibility to ensure you're using the best available gear.

8. Understand Faction Quests (Red Quests)

Faction Quests require you to wear a specific Faction Uniform to complete them. These quests:

• Provide Faction Points, which are useful for certain rewards.

• Sometimes involves PvP combat, so be cautious when entering contested zones.

If you don't want to engage in PvP, you can skip these quests, but they do offer useful progression items.

9. Use the Marketplace and Inventory Efficiently

Blade & Soul features a marketplace where you can buy and sell items. Be sure to:

• Check for cheaper gear upgrades instead of relying only on quest rewards.

• Sell unnecessary materials to generate Blade & Soul Neo Classic Divine Gems.

• Expand your inventory when possible to avoid running out of space.

10. Join a Clan for Extra Benefits

Playing solo is fun, but joining a Clan provides:

• Access to Clan Buffs, boosting your stats.

• Group activities, such as dungeon runs and PvP battles.

• A helpful community to answer questions and guide your progress.

Many Clans recruit new players, so check the Clan Recruitment chat or forums to find one that suits you.

Conclusion

Blade & Soul NEO Classic offers a rewarding leveling experience with a mix of action combat and RPG progression. By enabling Blade & Soul Mode, completing Side Quests, collecting Valor Stones, and upgrading your skills and gear, you'll set yourself up for success. Whether you're aiming for a fast leveling experience or a completionist approach, these tips will help you navigate the game more efficiently.