Probably Stolen's official store description names six starting-path concepts, while newer Playtest and Demo announcements clarify which additions are currently shown or still planned. This guide keeps those two kinds of information separate instead of implying that every named path is available in every branch.

Officially described starting-path concepts

PathOfficially described focusCurrent announcement boundary
GunsmithWeapons and shop tradeNamed by the store; this update does not establish branch availability
ChemistChemicals and guarded recipesNamed by the store; this update does not establish branch availability
Water MerchantTested and filtered waterPlanned for the September 14 Demo; not the current Playtest water-upgrade path
FenceGoods with questionable originsNamed by the store; this update does not establish branch availability
FarmerFarming and productionNamed by the store; this update does not establish branch availability
Rock BottomStarting with no suppliesReleased in the public Playtest by the August 6 update
Rat WranglerNo effect details published in the reviewed updateShown in the Playtest starting list by the August 7 update

The focus column summarizes the official store description, except where the newer announcement supplies the limited status shown. Rat Wrangler was previously hidden and is now displayed in the starting list; that does not establish when its underlying mechanic was added or what it does. Rock Bottom is described as a difficult start with no supplies, but no numeric modifiers are published here.

Which Probably Stolen starting scenario should you choose?

For paths whose concepts are officially described, choose the product questions you want to solve. Water Merchant centers testing and filtering. Gunsmith puts permit and inspection pressure close to the core loop. Fence aligns with contraband risk. Farmer points toward production systems. This is a concept comparison, not a ranking of current availability, starting stats or economy strength.

For the later mechanics behind testing, filtering and liability, use the Probably Stolen Water Trading Guide.

For access and timing, use the Playtest guide: Request Access, the planned September 14 Demo and Beta previews are different states. The Water Merchant scenario is planned Demo content as of September 9, not a currently confirmed Playtest starting choice.

The reviewed material does not publish enough detail to rank the paths' economy or recommend a universal best start.

Starting path versus later work

The game also describes additional jobs and advanced licenses. A starting path is an opening condition, not proof that every later profession is locked to it.