Your First Embark: Choosing a Site

Learn how to choose an ideal embark site for your first Dwarf Fortress, focusing on resources and avoiding dangers.

When starting a new game, you'll select an embark location. For beginners, look for a site with 'Flux Stone' (for steel production later), 'Shallow Metals' (iron, copper), 'Deep Metals', 'Soil' (for farming), and 'Trees'. Avoid areas with 'Evil' biomes or 'Volcanoes' for your first few fortresses, as these present significant challenges. A temperate forest or mountain biome is generally a safe bet. Ensure there's a water source nearby, but not directly on your embark point to avoid immediate flooding.