The answer first
The Relic: First Guardian does not use a traditional character-level system. Progression comes from Relics (Runes), equipment, skill trees and exploration. Official sources describe Relics and Runes together; the exact relationship between them must be confirmed after the July 31 launch.
Last updated: 2026-07-28 · Official PlayStation Blog (Dec 2025), GamingBolt interview (Jul 22, 2026), Steam store listing (Jul 2026).
How progression works
Official developer material describes The Relic: First Guardian's progression as a system without traditional character levels. The confirmed elements are:
- Relics (Runes) — official sources describe these together; the precise relationship between Relics and Runes is not yet confirmed separately.
- Equipment — weapons and armor are designed as unique pieces, not disposable duplicates.
- Skill trees — each of the five weapon styles includes twelve exclusive skill trees.
- Exploration — official sources describe finding branching paths, hidden spaces, optional bosses, events and Relics.
Official sources do not describe Relics and Runes as separate confirmed layers with a defined relationship. Any description of runes fine-tuning Relic performance is an inference, not a published fact.
Understanding progression before you play
- Accept that there is no traditional XP or character level — growth comes from multiple interconnected systems.
- Understand that Relics and Runes are described together in official sources; their exact relationship is unconfirmed.
- Note that equipment is designed as unique pieces — choose based on your build goals, not on assumed disposability.
- Plan around the twelve exclusive skill trees within each weapon style you choose.
- Expect exploration to potentially reveal content beyond the main progression path.
Progression systems at a glance
Relics (Runes)
Best for: Core ability shaping — exact relationship between Relics and Runes unconfirmed
Evidence: S2, S3
Equipment
Best for: Unique weapon and armor pieces
Evidence: S2, S3
Skill trees
Best for: Weapon-specific mastery; twelve per weapon style
Evidence: S2
Exploration
Best for: Branching paths, hidden spaces, optional bosses, events and Relics
Evidence: S3
What is verified
- There is no traditional character-level system (S2, S3).
- Progression uses Relics (Runes), equipment, skill trees and exploration (S2, S3).
- Weapons and armor are designed as unique pieces rather than disposable duplicates (S2, S3).
- Exploration can lead to branching paths, hidden spaces, optional bosses, events and Relics (S3).
- Each weapon style includes twelve exclusive skill trees (S2).
What needs more evidence
- The exact relationship between Relics and Runes — official sources describe them together but do not define their hierarchy.
- Exact Relic acquisition locations, upgrade paths or equip slots — not published.
- Specific rune effects or rune combinations — not published in developer sources.
- Post-launch balance changes to progression systems — verify after July 31 release.
- Detailed skill tree unlock requirements or point allocation — unconfirmed.
Related Guides
Compare the five weapon types and choose which to focus on first.Crafting and Equipment
Learn what crafting does and how unique equipment works.Combat and Survival
Understand how attacks, stamina and defense work in The Relic: First Guardian.Brutals and Boss Preparation
Prepare for the 70+ Brutals and bosses with a verified pre-fight checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a character level system?
No. Official developer material explicitly describes The Relic: First Guardian as not using a traditional character-level system. Growth comes from Relics (Runes), equipment, skill trees and exploration.
What is the relationship between Relics and Runes?
Official sources describe Relics and Runes together but do not define the precise relationship. The notion that runes fine-tune or enhance Relic properties is an inference not published in developer material.
Are weapons and armor disposable?
No. Official developer material describes weapons and armor as unique pieces rather than disposable duplicates. This suggests a more deliberate equipment progression than typical loot-heavy systems.
Can exploration reveal everything?
Official sources describe exploration as leading to branching paths, hidden spaces, optional bosses, events and Relics. Whether some content requires specific milestones to access has not been confirmed in developer material.
Source scope and verification
Official PlayStation Blog (Dec 2025), GamingBolt interview (Jul 22, 2026), Steam store listing (Jul 2026).
Source IDs: S2, S3
Corrections and editorial limits are noted on each page. A full sources and corrections page will be added after the July 31, 2026 launch.