I have just started playing this game and for the most part am very happy with what has been accomplished so far. I have to agree that at first it has been a bit daunting to get through the first rank and to understand the battles...that being said...I have found some excellent youtube videos to watch that have helped. I have joined with two other players as noobs and we have had a lot of fun overcoming the learning curve but now seem to have a grasp of the basics. I would agree that maybe an entry level PvP/PvE academy be set-up to assist new players...as some new players are looking for a faster rate of play, for my friends and I the expectation...this is the age of sail...so you have time to work through the basics.