What should I unlock first?
Your second fish. That is the only official evolution milestone.
Progression
DEVOUR Eat Fish Progression Route
Four checkpoints. Do not skip them for a Deep dive.
Updated
Checkpoint 1 — First Life
Joining awards First Life. 516,854 awards in the August 13 snapshot means almost every starter sees this badge. Use the first minute to learn the bite prompt, not to swim toward dark water.
Checkpoint 2 — second fish
Evolution Begins is awarded when you unlock your second fish. 407,036 awards versus 516,854 First Life awards means most players who stay a session can do this. Open the Fish Tree as soon as the tutorial asks.
Checkpoint 3 — Level 19 trait
The first documented power choice is the Level 19 trait panel. Take Healing if other players are deleting you, Bite Speed if the reef already feels safe. Then keep eating. Size still has no published cap.
Checkpoint 4 — leave the reef on purpose
Only after the second fish and a trait should you treat open ocean as a goal. The Deep stays last. Official media sells it with CAN YOU SURVIVE, not with a beginner quest.
Optional extras, not the route
Golden Mackerel appeared as a live-feed catch in footage (Bd9IHpMI5Q8@16:32). Mastery, Shop, and Packs exist as tabs. None of those replace the four checkpoints above.
FAQ
DEVOUR Eat Fish Progression Route FAQ
When should I go to The Deep?
After a second fish and a Level 19 trait, and only if you are no longer the smallest silhouette in the reef.