U4GM - Dinkum NPC Guide: 12 Residents Worth Befriending First
In Dinkum, the heart of your outback town isn’t just the crops you grow or the items you craft—it’s the people who live there. Befriending NPCs not only brings life to your settlement, but unlocks shops, upgrades, and special recipes you won’t want to miss. With limited time and daily interaction caps, knowing who to prioritize can shape your gameplay significantly. Here's a guide to 12 Dinkum residents worth befriending first—especially if you’re aiming for growth, efficiency, and access to the best gear.
1. John – The Essential Trader
John is one of the first NPCs you’ll meet and arguably the most important early on. As the owner of John’s Goods, he buys most of your foraged items and is a reliable source of early income. Building friendship with John can eventually lead to better trade options and unlocks.
2. Fletch – Your Town’s Backbone
Fletch handles building licenses and town permits. While you can’t miss interacting with her, befriending her speeds up progression, especially for unlocking important town upgrades. Check in with her often to unlock building tools and deeds.
3. Franklin – The Crafting Genius
Franklin is a visiting NPC you’ll definitely want to settle in your town. Specializing in advanced crafting, Franklin lets you commission powerful tools and machinery. Once he moves in, you’ll have consistent access to some of the most valuable Dinkum items for sale, such as the Grain Mill or Repair Table.
4. Clover – Clothing and Aesthetics
Want to customize your look? Clover is the fashion-forward resident who sells clothing and accessories. But beyond style, befriending Clover gives access to storage upgrades and seasonal outfits. Her rotating stock can sometimes include rare or event-based gear.
5. Rayne – The Farming Ally
Rayne’s shop is vital for farming lovers. She sells seeds and plant-related supplies, and her friendship level affects inventory and seed access. Farming efficiently is a great way to generate revenue, and Rayne’s support makes it more productive.
6. Melvin – Furniture and Style
Melvin might not affect gameplay directly, but he transforms your home and town layout with unique furniture. Building a relationship with Melvin expands his catalog and gives your town that polished, lived-in vibe.
7. Erwin – Animal Expert
If you’re interested in ranching or animal husbandry, Erwin’s your guy. Befriending him ensures access to livestock, feed, and pet-related tools. Building a good relationship early makes it easier to scale up your animal farming efforts.
8. Theodore – The Museum Curator
Theodore runs the museum and takes in bugs, fish, and fossils. As you contribute more, you’ll build reputation and receive rewards. While not a merchant, he’s essential for 100% completionists and helps bring a sense of long-term achievement.
9. Sally – The Hair Stylist
Sally is a niche NPC but adds a fun layer of customization to your experience. Her salon lets you change hairstyles, and developing your bond expands those style options. Not a must-have, but great for those who love personalization.
10. Jimmy – The Mysterious Merchant
You can’t actually invite Jimmy to your town, but you can befriend him through transactions. He appears randomly during rainy days and offers high payouts for bulk items. If you’re farming Dinks to buy Dinkum Items, Jimmy is key.
11. Helena – Seasonal Goods Specialist
Helena, when available, sells seasonal goods and rare crafting materials. Getting on her good side might lead to insider tips or discounts when events roll around, making her a strategic social investment.
12. Ted Selly – The Wilderness Trader
Ted roams the wild, so finding him is tricky, but when you do, he offers exclusive hunting gear and animal traps. If you’re focused on combat or wildlife capture, make him a priority whenever he shows up.
Your friendships in Dinkum are more than just flavor—they’re a foundation for your island’s progress. Investing in the right NPCs early on can fast-track your access to advanced tools, building licenses, and profitable ventures. Whether you’re hunting for rare Dinkum items for sale or looking to streamline your daily grind, building rapport pays off.
And if you're short on time or just want to get a head start, some players choose to buy Dinkum Items directly from reliable sellers like U4GM. While progressing naturally is rewarding, a little help can go a long way—especially when you're chasing efficiency.
No matter your playstyle, getting to know these 12 residents will shape your Dinkum experience in powerful ways.