First time 'round, shoot for a quality build: about 40-50vig, 30-40end, 15-20vit, 40str, 40dex, and nothing in anything else. Use a straight sword, infuse with refined, take 100% block shield that has the 'skill' perk and infuse with simple, use a bow, and alot all flasks to estus. It's probably the simplest build, easiest to play, is very effective in both PVE and PVP, and is very versatile as far as choices in gear. Either that or just play around with different weapons and builds until you find what makes you happiest. Once you've got that figured out, then read, read, read, and test, test, test, until you can tweak it to perfection and lay waste to all who oppose you lol