Over 100 hours now, and I have only just completed Stormveil Castle. I have been exploring so much, It feels like the game does a really good job of difficulty spikes when going to different areas, venturing East for example (red area) have some pretty tricky encounters, a definite Nope out with a few of them!
I do like the Grace guidance so it gives you an idea of the thread of the game, but it's all about exploring!
I have gone for a Vigor/Strength/Endurance build with some Dexterity. I found a Colossal sword and that thing is ridiculously big, almost like cartoony joke sword lol
My current sword is a Claymore +8, 202 damage - seems to be doing the business so far