BEWARE: This game has randomized loot boxes.
Apart from the fact that this is annoying af, it also is enabling minors to gamble real money way.

I recommend you to not engage in PvP at the start and to always save your items as much as you can
don't underestimate the bandits, we were three stalker noobs and we got killed too many times
just move on from your lost items and don't fall into the sunken ship fallacy
(13.7 hrs at review time)

Edit:
I still like this game, currently mid game at the bar.
If you want to progress fast, focus on doing the main story line.
I like that the game isn't too grindy and paying real money doesn't make you overpowered