| You shouldn't need to start over. Just go back to your last saved game. After all, you're not quite at the beginning, having done the basement quests.
But yes, you do need to run south and not take on anything you encounter, just yet. If something enters the frame of viewing, zigzag to avoid it. You are faster than they are.
When you make levels at first, work on building up dexterity/agility, which controls the speed of your attacks. Focus on it until you're at least above 50% in your attack success rate. You'll find plenty of opportunities to make levels where you're going. And remember: you're almost always faster than any creature(s) you face. The best strategy is to pick off a straggler or two, run away, shoot back, run, etc.
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To the Righteous belong the fruits of violent victory. The rest of us will have to settle for warm friends, warm lovers, and a wink from a quietly supportive universe. | 
Ugh.. dead! 
Linear Mode
