> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.dark-mythos.com/dark-mythos-gamepaper/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.dark-mythos.com/dark-mythos-gamepaper/general/quickstart-guide.md).

# Quickstart Guide

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Create an account

1. Visit [https://explorer.dark-mythos.com/](https://explorer.dark-mythos.com/cards)
2. Click on "Sign in"
3. Choose a sign in method and follow the process

<figure><img src="/files/UstGFFn2ZSz8lPyeXvBP" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Claim the Free Starter Set

1. Visit <https://explorer.dark-mythos.com/bazaar/specials/starter-set>
2. Press the "Claim set" button in the right checkout box after accepting out Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions
3. Watch your Free Starter Set being forged
4. *Optional:* reveal your cards to get a first feeling of motives and card stats
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Start a match

1. Visit <https://explorer.dark-mythos.com/veiling-darkness>
2. Find your "Starter Deck" and press the "Start match" button

<figure><img src="/files/Ehx4Kl9xccwde1wDYbea" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. Enter the match by pressing the "Enter match" button

<figure><img src="/files/NP5NprJd7v3zJiZgzwjR" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Enter preparation phase

Navigate to the battle preparation by pressing the "Prepare battle" button

<figure><img src="/files/AGvJw3PGg0Bkhrmj2nws" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Prepare for battle

1. Select one of the formations and press the "Confirm" button

<figure><img src="/files/lSikVQhKxOVUVEbZEcMD" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. Place cards onto the battlefield using drag & drop

{% hint style="info" %}
Rule of thumb: place tank units (shields, hammers) in front line, melee units (axes, daggers) and supporters in center line and ranged units (staffs, bows) in back line (see example below)
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="/files/5wgpDxLG5PfVzmtUWQlC" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. After placing 8 cards, hit the "Start battle" button
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### The Battle

Auto-play is activated by default, so lean back and watch the battle happen.

<figure><img src="/files/DqMiZNlZYRKzkhziQgiX" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

After the battle, a final result screen will appear. If you already earned Resistance Points: congratulations for winning your first battle! Otherwise, your teams morale will be decreased - but don't despair, your first victory over the villains is within sight!

<figure><img src="/files/oZveR7eLa2WbXHFDxzTd" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Start the next battle by pressing the "Save & continue" button and repeat after [Step 4](#enter-preparation-phase). You'll be redirected to the map and the next area will be available to battle more villains!
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

#### Next steps

Explore our Explorer, Ecosystem and Tutorials. Find more information about [Deck Building](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/game-basics/deck-builder.md) and game mechanics like [Professions](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/cards/professions.md), [Races](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/cards/races.md), the [Element Circles](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/elements/circles-and-effects.md), the [Flow of Elements](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/elements/flow-of-elements-and-battle-element.md), the [Battle Element](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/elements/flow-of-elements-and-battle-element.md) to master Veiling Darkness and compare yourself to other contenders on the [Wall of Resistance](/dark-mythos-gamepaper/play-the-game/wall-of-resistance.md) and take part in our Tournaments (coming soon).