Make sure you listen to the NPCs. They give you clues like being quiet around the big beaky things that one shot you. Also, if it is really big you guns do nothing. Go and find the other way to destroy it.

I feel that. I gave it a 6month break and went back for a new map. Some people like to re-engineer the entire map. I like the challenge of creating a thriving society and then get bored of them. The new sluse gates allow us to automate the water to the point where they are self sufficient.

Too lazy to check all responses but if you want a nice resource building game then Timberborn could be your jam.