I played a Barbarian Berserker when the game originally came out (I have my collector's edition silver tin box right here) and I think I tried the game again maybe once. I originally quit do to the fact that the levelling was very slow, and some presure to stay on top. Me, my brother, and a few friends started up "The Illuminati" on Kithikor. It seemed like everyone except for me wanted to be the best, and be on top all the time. So when I was experimenting with the crafting and talking to all the npcs and exploring and such (it had been one of my first mmos) they were out grinding. When we were getting ready to start doing the Blackrock Keep (was that what it was called?) they were a good 5 levels higher than me. After that I just started to lose interest in the game, because my initial purpose as a tank/damage dealer was filled by the swarms of players looking to get in our guild.
Then maybe 6 months ago I tried again. I started up a gnome mage and got him to level 18 or something and evnetually kinda phased out of it, but I can't really remember why. I think it might have had something to do with my brother starting up wow and wanting me to play or something. Anyways, I really enjoyed the raised xp and drop rates.
Now, with the game overhall, I'm thinking about starting up again. I think I'd enjoy getting right down into what my target class is meant for.
So, my questions are as follows:
1. I like to solo, but groups are a fun way to get contacts in the game and enjoy yourself. So I'm wondering, what class should I choose? I'm probably going to mainly want to solo, but when I want to group, I don't want to have huge trouble finding one.
2. Expansions. Starting out, do I need them? I don't wanna spend too much money on something that I don't know if I'll be interested in or not.
3. How are the rates? Have they been increased or decreased recently?
4. What server and side do you think would be most welcome to helping newbies, ie, old equips, spare coin, etc. Can you advise against some?
Sorry for the long post, but thanks for everyone who read it all and is willing to help me out.