I played this a bit several years ago. I never got really far, however. I remember it as a bit on the cryptic side, but very rewarding once you learn the basics. I can't recall a lot of useful tips, but I think it was important to learn how to find (and raid hostile) villages. Although the interface is a bit cumbersome, I loved how it allowed for really complex interactions. I had a lot of fun with one character who learned taxonomy, just walking around and browsing the genetic relationship between monster species. And it features really imaginative and deep stuff like orbs you can rub on your skin to transform into another race.
As always,
Minotauros