I also found the character screen ugly, and wondered why this game was so popular but now it has a charm of its own that I like, I even tried a mod for higher res textures and they were good but the game lost its charm for me so I reverted to default again.

Some none spoiler tips to help you out :

- On the mini map (top right) you can see which biome you are in, at the start it is Meadows a relatively safe area.
- Do NOT rush, take your time there is no timer running so dont feel like you need to rush to stuff.
- At the workbench tab you will see a hammer tab sticking out, it is the repair button and you can repair all the basic items there for free, no resources used at all.
- You can see your action keys (bottom right), typically with a weapon its left click to attack, right to block and middle mouse for special if the weapon has such (like a spear can be thrown), and dodge is hold block, press space and a direction.
- Try break up your activities so you dont get stuck in a rut of grinding, take time to hunt, to explore or to spruce up your home.

Welcome to Valheim warrior.