PLAYER HANDBOOK · Start & routine
Start well: unlocks, level 45 and your next goal
Follow the story, identify missing unlocks and choose your first level-45 objective without confusing CP and Item Level.
By AION2 Codex · Reviewed · Global-focused, source-scoped guidance
Quick answer
Finish the quest that unlocks a system before spending resources to reach an assumed level gate. At 45, choose one next activity and prepare for its displayed requirements.
Your next three steps
- Follow the main story and complete the Ascension quests it points to.
- Check your skill build, equipment slots and available reward counters.
- Use the Progression Guide to choose the next dungeon or character upgrade.
A level is not always the unlock
The reviewed Global reference places crafting, gathering and Substance Morph at level 10. Several other systems depend on story or Ascension quests; merely reaching the recommended level can leave their menus locked.
After reaching 45
Nightmare, Arcana, PvP and other endgame systems become relevant at the launch level cap. Activities can still require a quest or Item Level. Read the entrance panel before arranging a group.
- Check the story journal when an activity is missing.
- Use your actual Item Level for an entry requirement. Our player rankings display Combat Power, a different value.
- Choose useful upgrades for your role rather than buying any item with a higher number.
A practical first session
Our recommendation: finish outstanding unlocks, fill empty equipment slots, set your class skills, then spend a limited reward resource on an activity you can complete. Leave an expensive reroll for after you know the replacement plan.
Continue with your build
Sources, evidence & version scope
Unlock levels are a Global launch reference. A quest recommendation is not a universal hard gate; check the current journal.
This is an original editorial synthesis. The references below were read on October 3, 2026; reading a community client-data analysis does not mean we tested its mechanics in the live game.
- System unlock reference ↗
Community research; Global client references and separately labelled Asian-release evidence. Read October 3, 2026; not an independent in-game test.
- Level-45 checklist ↗
Community research; Global client references and separately labelled Asian-release evidence. Read October 3, 2026; not an independent in-game test.
- Global and Asian-release differences ↗
Community research; Global client references and separately labelled Asian-release evidence. Read October 3, 2026; not an independent in-game test.