its more of a simulator winch. you dont need to goto stands. you could also just get a tent put it where you want ( your hotspot, then spawn there)
check the forums for official guides and such on playing if you struggling.
if you want to hunt all animals and all reserves you buy a license which can be 3 months , 6 months , 12 months.
you use ethical guns/weapons for each animal.
the best package is the trail runner ($49.99 dollars which is about 30 quid ) that gives you a 12 month license hunt all 18 animals and you get all the guns you need and other gear included to hunt everything everywhere. thing is that package gives you about 20 quids worth of gear.
the normal 1 year license is $35.00 which is about 23 quid i think so its worth it for the extra as you get some of the best gear you nee to play.
this is one of the only games i rate fully as the devs listen and make the changes often to community asked things. which is very rare these days in popular games.
you can play multiplayer (upto 8 players ) there is a learning curve but for lasting appeal games need that. thats why so many of us get bored quickly now with many other games.
free version lets you hunt just mule deer on loggers point and is on steam.
if anyone wants a game and needs a hand i dont mind setting up a room to do a tour
also for those of us who are competitive there are about 20 comps a day. so lots to do and have fun with whether casual or to play to win.