Early game progression felt too samey, so I spawned in the following items

[MechanicalLens]

 

I spawned in the T1 iron crossbow, magnum, and hunting rifle since I rarely, if ever, use these weapons, and I wanted some ranged weapons that didn't make me feel too powerful from the get-go. They're all unloaded and I've set a rule where once they break, they cannot be repaired. (I might backtrack on this detail though.) The flashlight replaces the torch, for roleplay reasons, and the clothing is there for similar intent. The standard can of chili, bottled water, and first aid bandage have remained.

 

No idea why I thought to post this to be honest. Maybe someone out there is experiencing the same situation that I am and they could take this as a source of inspiration to add a bit of spice (aka non-linear progression) to their world.

 

Note: I understand that in A20, loot progression will improve. But this is not A20, we're still in A19. 😛 Not that you can't rush art though.