Complain train, all aboard!

[Jdog]

Yes.
If you're playing MRD to be a DD then you will be disappointed.
If I were you I'd stop at 36 for Maim and Axemanship and head on over to LNC.

Thanks...you just saved me countless hours of my life

[Lienn]

Thanks...you just saved me countless hours of my life

Actually, think like this:

"I liked the old battle system" = go play ARC
"I liked FFXI battle system" = go play LNC

I'd consider these two the most effective DoW right now. But i must say...as MRD i find both classes horrid >< I can't stand these glasschin clases...they can give monsters a good beating, but its not an one-way deal...you do will take some good beating during fights too. Yesterday i got raped by 4 r30 wolves as LNC 36 exactly by they being like this...attacked the wolves, got my TP, boosted and BAM! Doomspike II! Incredibly missed all 4 and had no time to get back on fight...Lienn might not be able to sit for a few days still after this fight.

[Holyomen]

Thanks...you just saved me countless hours of my life

However, you should be aware that leveling up LNC will require a little more skill.
LNC has the least HP of all melee and you will notice they won't take hits like MRD does.
IMO ARC, MRD and GLA are able to get through leves a little easier than LNC and PUG.(Braces for blacklash)
If you haven't already you should get THM to 20 for Stygian Spikes, Sac II and Siphon MP and make good use of LNC MP.

[Lienn]

However, you should be aware that leveling up LNC will require a little more skill.
LNC has the least HP of all melee and you will notice they won't take hits like MRD does.
IMO ARC, MRD and GLA are able to get through leves a little easier than LNC and PUG.(Braces for blacklash)
If you haven't already you should get THM to 20 for Stygian Spikes, Sac II and Siphon MP and make good use of LNC MP.

This does is a good suggestion for newbies. With the new MP costs THM 20 became important for soloing flow.