guides > getting started in paralives
Getting Started in Paralives
Welcome to Paralives! Whether you've been following development for years or just discovered the game through early access (like me), your first save can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Between creating your first Parafolk, finding a home, and exploring Melino, it's not always obvious where to start when playing a new game. This guide covers the essentials!
guides > getting started in paralives
Getting Started in Paralives
Welcome to Paralives! Whether you've been following development for years or just discovered the game through early access (like me), your first save can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Between creating your first Parafolk, finding a home, and exploring Melino, it's not always obvious where to start when playing a new game. This guide covers the essentials!
BEFORE YOU START
Remember that Paralives released for early access May 25th, 2026. That means the game is still very much in development. Bugs and crashing should be expected. BUT! Do not let that stop you from playing.
This is a really important time for the development team because it's basically testing by the masses. What you experience is super helpful to share via this form. Don't assume others are experiencing the same issues, submit the error you are seeing and don't fall for the bystander effect.
The magic right now is experimenting and helping shape this game!
Remember that Paralives released for early access May 25th, 2026. That means the game is still very much in development. Bugs and crashing should be expected. BUT! Do not let that stop you from playing.
This is a really important time for the development team because it's basically testing by the masses. What you experience is super helpful to share via this form. Don't assume others are experiencing the same issues, submit the error you are seeing and don't fall for the bystander effect.
The magic right now is experimenting and helping shape this game!
Step by Step Walkthrough
Step by Step Walkthrough
Start a New Save
• click load new game
• select town
• select yes or no on the tutorial
Start a New Save
Start a New Save
Enjoy the Train Ride
Enjoy the Train Ride
Enjoy the Train Ride
Buy a Home
Buy a Home
Buy a Home
Explore the Town
Explore the Town
Explore the Town
Aspects I'm Loving
• how natural building feels (the drag/resize objects is insane) • the customization via the color wheel • the cozy atmosphere • the sound track
Needs Some TLC
• camera jumpiness • gameplay depth is lacking • UI quirks
EXPLORE MELINO
Old Town
If you want to be in the middle of everything, Old Town is where you'll want to start. It's packed with shops, restaurants, community lots, apartments, and plenty of places to explore. There's always something happening here, making it a great fit for social Parafolks or players who like having everything within easy walking distance.
Forest Mountain
Tucked away among the trees, the Forest District is all about nature, privacy, and beautiful views. The homes here feel a little more secluded, making it perfect for Parafolks who prefer a quieter lifestyle. If your idea of a perfect morning includes coffee on the porch and birds chirping in the distance, this might be your favorite spot in Melino.
Rural
Looking for a little peace and quiet? The Farm District offers wide open spaces, larger lots, and a slower pace of life. Whether you dream of growing a huge garden, raising animals, or just escaping the hustle and bustle of town, this neighborhood gives you plenty of room to spread out.
Industrial
Don't let the name fool you, there's more here than warehouses! The Industrial District has a modern, urban feel with apartments, businesses, and plenty of opportunities for career-focused Parafolks. It's a great choice if you enjoy city living but still want access to Melino's charm.
Got the Basics, What's Next?
Once you've settled into your first save, don’t forget to explore every neighborhood in Melino, check out the different Parafolk households, browse local shops, and pay attention to the small environmental details that make the town feel lived in.
If you're ready for something new, take a look at the growing mod community already available on Steam. There are plenty of amazing mods that can help shape your Paralives!
A passion project being built to organize news, content and gameplay for Paralives from a life long gamer
*not affiliated with the official paralives*
A passion project being built to organize news, content and gameplay for Paralives from a life long gamer
*not affiliated with the official paralives*
A passion project being built to organize news, content and gameplay for Paralives from a life long gamer
*not affiliated with the official paralives*