I have 5 hearts and 9 defense from my armor. My strongest weapon has 20 damage. I noticed I’m too unequipped for most stuff. I get 1 shot by any miniboss and boss bokos.
I don’t have much of the map. Only the first tower and a tiny bit of depths. Any advice? Where can I get decent early-mid game loot?
You should have received two quests at Lookout Landing (which I’m assuming you’ve been to and that is the one tower you’ve unlocked so far - of not, go to Lookout Landing).
One is granted by Purah and notes 4 Regional Phenomena for you to go investigate. Talking to other folks around Lookout Landing will gently nudge you toward one of the specific phenomena.
The other is granted, if I remember correctly, by Josha and involves investigating a nearby chasm to get a picture of a statue. This quest is classified as a side adventure and not a main quest, but you’ll still want to do it sooner or later.
Should I arm myself better for the phenomena?
Don’t overthink it. Regional Phenomena is a long quest and each investigation is a quest (at least) in itself.
As you make your way to different destinations as part of the quest, you will naturally come across shrines, caves, side quests, and enemy encounters such that you will constantly be getting rewards and upgrading things.
Thank you for the tips