I have also only started to play as of December. Although not new to the MMO game play, the world was, and to an extent still is, overwhelming but people seem to be a lot friendlier to new players than other MMO's I've played. Wiped several times to Ultima Weapon fight last night and no one raged which was nice. Obviously haven't made it to any end game content so maybe it's different at the top but so far my experience has been great. I do hate getting constant FC requests with no accompanied whisper....sorry but I don't know you...would you get into a strangers car? Then don't try to invite strangers to your FC.