We are starting a new series in which I will present optimal locations for players in Rookgaard. The series will be divided into several parts, where I will discuss different places and their variations, so everyone can find something suitable. First up is Poison Spider Cave.

The research will consist of three runs, each aiming to determine a stable exp/h value. Based on these, I will calculate the average value. The test results come from four characters at different experience levels. After purchasing level 36 on the market in recent days, all of them belong to me. Using trend line analysis, I will try to predict exp/h values for each level and identify the optimal spots.

In the assumptions, I equipped the characters with a Katana or Mace and did not include any additional equipment providing movement speed, such as mounts. During the leveling, I did not collect loot.

To forecast, I used a logarithmic trend line that describes the initial rapid growth or drop in value, followed by a slowdown. It seems to be the best option when considering the last 2 or 3 values. With this assumption, the exp/h value does not change drastically but smoothly. There are also no significant changes while gaining new levels. The trend line is most reliable when its R^2 value is around 1. For all analyses, this value was >0.9.
The classic Poison Spider Cave, which most of us have traversed thousands of times without much thought, seems like a solid foundation. This foundation can serve as a primary experience-gaining spot for beginners. The reason is the fast respawn rate of creatures. Low-level characters won't have trouble running into empty spaces, encountering another creature at every turn.
The challenge while leveling at low levels is staying alive. At level 9, it is necessary to stock up on Small Health Potions. By level 18, however, it is enough to snack on something from time to time.

The graph shows that as the experience level increases, the exp/h decreases. The reason for this is the insufficiently fast respawn rate of monsters. R^2 is 0.9569. The trend line very accurately reflects the decline.
While gaining experience, it would be a sin not to occasionally go outside to breathe fresh air—especially since Spiders are waiting for us there. Although Poison Spiders provide the biggest experience boost, their weaker forms allow us to wait out the time needed for the respawn of lower-level monsters.

We add a zero level to the standard route with a passage to the area near the Sword of Fury island and the tower. At each transition, we go up. Just like with the classic PSC at lower levels, you need to be prepared for quick HP drops. The higher the level, the easier the situation becomes. The graph shows that at higher levels, the expected exp/h is better than in the case of the standard PSC.
Close to the PSC is the Troll Tower, where at higher levels it's worth going in and facing the Trolls. Along the way, we stop by the Spiders near the Sword of Fury and a small tower with a Poison Spider. The rest is the standard route through the PSC.

Trolls can be a challenge for weaker players, so it’s not advisable to approach them at lower levels.
At the bottom, the graph shows exp/h for PSC + Trolls. In the end, we face the most complex route of all. Along the way, we pass by a spot where one of the tiles is located, which you must stand on for the Sword of Fury to disappear from the island. We also pass by Skeletons. Throughout the entire route, we will encounter numerous Poison Spiders. The results are presented below in the table.

This is also one of the most challenging routes for beginners. Players with lower levels need to stock up on plenty of Small Health Potions. The large number of Poison Spiders not only deals significant damage but can also poison. Those who don't feel confident can also bring Antidote with them. A few Skeletons at lower levels also pose a challenge, so this route is not recommended for those who are unsure of their skills. The guide can be particularly useful for new players. However, at higher levels, the simple routes outlined above become obsolete, and more complex and demanding locations come into play.

The charts, especially the last one, clearly show that limiting oneself exclusively to PSC is counterproductive. It’s evident how crucial the quick respawn of monsters is. PSC only works well at level 9, and starting from level 10, a better choice is already PSC + Spiders. It also turns out that the most difficult route, namely PSC + SS Plate, is the best from level 18 to around 175. Afterwards, PSC + Trolls takes the lead, although the predictions regarding exp/h for such high levels, given the limited amount of data, may be less accurate. Nonetheless, the entire article presents approximate values that players can expect.

Proposed locations for leveling based on the article: If anyone would like to help with future articles by executing a few routes, I will prepare a special Excel sheet that I will share with anyone interested. A larger number of players and collected data will allow for better predictions of exp/h for specific levels, contributing to the development and increasing players' awareness throughout Rookgaard. I invite all interested parties to the comments section and to contact me in-game.

Regards,
Rookie Team