I am new as well, I have only been playing for about a week. I have a level 31 PUG, 14 LNC, 12 CNJ, 11 Leatherworking at the moment and there seems like there is just too much to do. There are tons of side quests, the grand company quests, the main mission story...it's actually a lot for new people to go after. Leveling is faster than it was ever in ffxi and the combat is more intuitive. It's just a nice, solid break away from the cookie-cutters out there.

The only thing that they could do better for newer players is provide a path for gearing. Besides running into a random quest that might give you gear that you need, they could perhaps mainstream leves and actually have you select a reward. This would help a lot as I just find myself buying stuff through the AH for my gear, but then again....that does make for a good economy so maybe i just need to craft more.

I got side tracked there for a min, but that's because I am loving the game. It has charm, life, and feels fresh to be honest. I have recommended it to my friends and they will start playing soon. I see a good future for this game.