Blighted tiles will only do damage if they are completely covered. If a tile is speckled or partially covered, you can pass over it safely.
Encounters
Glowing red eyes in the fog indicate an unknown enemy, native, or object. Eyes that move are usually enemies or Natives. Stationary eyes are crystal rocks or random event objects. If you become overwhelmed, just run away. There is no requirement to kill all enemies that are encountered.
Fluids
Test unidentified fluids on yourself when you are at least two-thirds health. By doing this, restorative fluids will help you while harmful fluids will not kill you outright. Test fluids away from ledges and in larger spaces to avoid getting moved into danger.
Managing inventory
If you find a useful consumable item but are short on inventory space, drop the same type of item from your inventory on the ground. Pick up the newly found consumable and use it, then collect the item that was dropped earlier.
Movement
Move one tile at a time to minimize surprises in unknown areas. You can jump off ledges to reach the next area without having to find a teleporter. However, this will cost health. Tap off the tiles into open air or use "catapult" fluids.
Natives
Most Natives are peaceful and will fight your enemies. You can then collect the rewards after the battle ends.
Stats
Concentrate on increasing your Health early in the game to give yourself greater survivability. After reaching an acceptable value, move on to upgrading your Strength in order to defeat enemies faster.
Blighted tiles...