Yeah, DF is like Rimworld in that it looks like a low powered game, but it'll eat up as many resources as you give it, so a tower is a better host for it. And in fort mode I tend to get around the production chains that intimidate me too much by using trade. I'll focus HEAVILY on a production chain I understand and enjoy and build up a LOT of excess in that category, and then sell it off for the resources I need but dont want to make when the seasonal traders arrive, because unlike rimworld, they show up consistently unless you have pissed their empire off. I also wouldnt sleep on adventure mode either, DF builds a whole world for you to explore, and the Shenanigans you can get up to in it are pretty great. Becoming a legendary wrestler and running around breaking peoples arms, stealing their weapons, and then throwing said weapons into the faces of their allies is a rush