Really hoping for some basic starter equipment. Would be greatly appreciated.

Just play the game its not that hard
Find a good spot and farm some lvl

You can beat the game with a katana which you get if you play samurai

+1

U destroy the game with buying stuff

I'll add that buying runes and gear will restrict your ability to summon other players as summoning is tied to level and gear level. The online in this game is subtle but absolutely amazing once you get into it and will make the game more enjoyable for a new player than top Gear and drowning because you didn't take the time to learn mechanics

Controversial opinion but if you feel stuck just look some things up online until you get unstuck and carry on at your own pace

I'll throw my two cents in as a long time Soulsborne player and recommend astrologer. Magic is a bit more friendly to new players (dodge away, hit enemies from a distance). While it seems weak at the start ramps up wonderfully as the game progresses