I recently DLed this, and I've been having lots of fun with it, but it always seems that as soon as I get a char rolling I get wiped by something stupid. Any tips for a for a C:DDA noob?
KNIFE SPEAR Best early weapon in the game. Make it by smashing a few lockers and breaking a window. Make spikes from the lockers and rags from the window, and take the heavy stick, and just tie it all together to make a devastating weapon. If you have a few points in mechanics, I believe, you can make it from the start in the shelter.
It also does quite a bit of damage if thrown (correctly).
Also, stay in one place if you're playing static. Make a base, fortify the living hell out of it. And remember, you don't have to spend every living moment fighting. If you or your clothes take any considerable amount of damage, finish your fight and retreat to lick your wounds and repair your stuff. You can use the time spent healing to cook food, purify water, and learn skills through books, all of the which can be gathered from your fighting/looting expeditions.
Also, get a filter mask. It's one of your best friends- it keeps you from dying while cooking and fighting smokers. Don it every time you see smoke and you'll be okay. Arm/Leg guards are also very good as well, make sure to get a set.
Also, keep your clothes fitted and reinforced. It makes a big difference. If you can't, invest a point or two into the tailor skill or read a "Sew what, clothing?" book to learn how to repair and upkeep your own stuff.