7 Beginner Tips For Schedule I

Source: 7 Beginner Tips For Schedule I

Introduction

Schedule I may appear to be just another management-type simulation game, but there's much more depth to it than initially meets the eye. Once you start playing, the game quickly draws you in with its engaging mechanics and atmospheric setting. For new players feeling lost in this world of illicit substances and business management, these seven beginner tips will help you navigate the gritty streets of Hyland Point more effectively.

Tip 1: Keep Your Pockets Clean

One of the most important aspects of surviving in Schedule I is managing your inventory when moving around town. The police are a constant threat to your operations, and they will occasionally stop you for random searches.

When the police stop you, they'll thoroughly check every slot of your inventory. You can hide items in your inventory, but you can only hide one item at a time by holding it while in its slot. When an officer shines their flashlight over an inventory slot, that means they're currently examining that spot, giving you time to grab an illegal item in another slot to hide it from their view.

As much as possible, only carry what you absolutely need when traveling around town. Use your properties as safe storage locations for your products and cash.

Tip 2: Start Small and Focus

When beginning your journey in Schedule I, it's tempting to try expanding into multiple drug types and operations immediately. However, it's much more effective to start small and focus on one product line.

Begin by mastering marijuana cultivation, as it's the simplest product to produce and has a reliable customer base. Once you've established a steady income stream and understand the basic mechanics, you can gradually expand into more complex substances and operations.

This focused approach allows you to reinvest profits efficiently and build a solid foundation for your empire.

Tip 3: Invest in Automation Early

Time management is crucial in Schedule I, as every action takes valuable time to complete. To maximize efficiency, invest in automation as early as possible:

• Purchase grow tents to increase plant yield and growth speed
• Set up packaging stations to streamline the processing of finished products
• Hire workers to handle repetitive tasks

These initial investments may seem expensive, but they quickly pay for themselves by increasing your production capacity and freeing up your time for more profitable activities.

Tip 4: Explore the Vintage Easter Eggs

While not directly related to gameplay mechanics, Schedule I contains numerous references to the heyday of the Drug War and the Nixon presidency. Look for these vintage Easter eggs throughout the game:

• The old Winnebago camper the main character uses to escape
• The bobblehead statue of Richard Nixon in the hotel room
• Various 1970s-inspired aesthetic elements

These details add depth to the game's atmosphere and provide an interesting historical context to your virtual drug empire.

Tip 5: Recruit Dealers Early

Expanding your distribution network is essential for scaling your business. Early in the game, you'll have the opportunity to recruit dealers like Benji, who can handle sales on your behalf.

To recruit Benji:

• Build a reputation with Chloe Bowers until she gives you information about him
• Find Benji in Room 2 of the Motel (next to your starting room)
• Pay the $500 signing bonus he requests
• Assign at least three clients to him (maximum of 8) to make the arrangement profitable

Dealers take a 20% cut of sales but dramatically increase your distribution capacity, allowing you to focus on production and expansion rather than making individual sales.

Tip 6: Use Money Laundering Businesses

As your illegal cash accumulates, you'll need legitimate businesses to launder it. Invest in money laundering operations in this order:

1. Laundromat ($10,000): Daily laundering limit of $2,000
2. Post Office ($16,000): Daily laundering limit of $4,000
3. Car Wash ($20,000): Daily laundering limit of $6,000
4. Taco Ticklers ($50,000): Daily laundering limit of $8,000

Start with the Laundromat as your first investment, then upgrade to higher-capacity businesses as your cash flow increases. Remember that laundered money is essential for purchasing properties and legitimate items in the game.

Tip 7: Only Accept Orders You Can Fulfill

When dealing with customers, it's tempting to accept every order that comes your way. However, Schedule I penalizes you for failing to deliver orders on time, which can damage your reputation and business relationships.

Before accepting an order:

• Check your current inventory to ensure you have the product on hand
• Consider the time needed to prepare fresh batches if necessary
• Factor in travel time to meet the customer
• Account for potential police encounters that might delay delivery

Schedule your orders with plenty of time between them, especially when playing solo, as you'll need to manage production, distribution, and supplier meetings simultaneously.

Conclusion

Schedule I offers a deep and engaging simulation experience that rewards strategic thinking and careful planning. By following these seven beginner tips, you'll be well on your way to building a successful drug empire in Hyland Point. Remember that patience and focus are key—start small, automate when possible, and gradually expand your operation as you master the game's mechanics.

Note: This information is based on the game as of April 2025.