I haven't played DS3 in a while and it's 5:30 in the morning. There may be some mistakes in this information, but it should be mostly good. Only bother with shields that don't offer 100% physical damage resistance, unless it's the grass crest shield. No use in having a shield equipped if you can't use it without taking taking damage. Use your rolls instead. Grass crest is the only exception because it offers other benefits. Press Y or Triangle to change the way you hold your weapon. Most weapons will swap to a two handed grip, but some weapons have dual wielding capabilities that allow you to perform stronger attack combos than normal. Also, a little known tidbit, pressing and holding Y or Triangle will allow you to hold your off-hand item in both hands. Pressing and holding which ever direction on the D-pad will allow you to jump to the start of your hot key item list. Remember this when you quickly need estus! Summon and be summoned! Don't forget to lend a helping hand to your fellow players. Drop your summon sign down at the start of an area or just before a boss to help out someone in need. If you ever need help, look for white or gold summon signs. Don't touch purple ones unless you like gambling with your life. Don't touch red ones or gold and red ones unless you want to duel. Certain equipment is useful for farming. I cannot remember specific pieces, but if you plan on acquiring every piece of gear, look up a list of everything and get the ones that will help you farm first. You can trade with players. Don't be afraid to go asking for something. You might get lucky and encounter someone nice enough to give you those boots or gauntlets that just will not drop for you. Use enemy weaknesses to your advantage. For example certain enemies are weak to fire, so be sure to have a torch ready in your off hand slots to quickly dispatch those types of enemies. Don't be afraid to experiment with different damage types either. Don't forget to upgrade your weapons. Also, don't worry about durability unless you're using a katana. Resting at a fire will automatically repair all of your items. Minor spoilers concerning the last boss. [spoiler]The last boss has a second phase that will really catch you by surprise if you're not prepared. Don't over use your estus unless you've reached the second phase.[/spoiler]

Play Demon Souls first, its a good entry to the series.

Don't focus on parrying on your first run through it'll make your life hell

I picked the game up just before Christmas myself. I've found that patience is key. I've been using the walk through by FightinCowboy on You Tube. A lot of helpful hints in that. This is my first souls game so it has been an experience, oh and lots of dying.

It's all about patience and knowing your enemy. It's not that hard once you get some experience under your belt Also for easier parrying try using fist weapons in your off hand. The party frames with them last very long. And they come out quicker

Dodge into attacks you're dodging even if they're from behind or the side. Surprisingly effective and while in some moments not the best choice, by the time you get there you'll have enough of a handle on it to make that judgement for yourself. These games are less about being in a safe place and more about being comfortable even if you're hugging the boss' ass.