Just played through the start, got the hydra’s head off and headed back to the village to do the well and the damsel in distress quest. IIRC you end up not being able to do that one if you leave it too long.
Edit: as long you don’t do the Lure of the Abyss quest first, you’re apparently ok. So I’m off to Gran Soren for some levels and gear first.
It holds up incredibly well on the steam deck. everything maxed out and getting a rock solid v synced 60 as far as I can see. So much fun.