Hello, Everyone,
Rather than share my nostalgia story from my previous tenure, I'd like to ask a few very specific soloing questions regarding a possible return to the game - as a brand new player starting from scratch. Just a brief history though, I'm coming from the LV75-era and I retired roughly a fairly short time after Wings of the Goddess released.
I'd like to say I have read through quite a few wonderful threads, blogs and other online guides that target new/returning players to get them up to speed. What I am unable to find, however, are the small details that make up the big picture in getting to all the new end-game content solo (as a new player). If these specific questions have been answered here in this forum, then I apologize. So, my questions are going to be based on a hypothetical scenario that the server I end up on is dead - ie; I am the only player occupying the world. The reason I am asking in this manner is because my decision to return may be based on the responses I get here.
Here is my overall expanded question:
As a new player starting with absolutely nothing, can I solo (no help from anyone) my way to level 75 and beyond having completed the necessary critical quests (sub-job, AF1, Genkai, etc) and being able to obtain decent gear appropriate for my level along the way? This question has in mind all the new features, perks and options that are available now that weren't back in the day that could help me in this. My goal is to go Beastmaster and undertake that quest as soon as possible. But soloing the quest NM's and AF requirements are a concern for me (or with any basic job).
It is what it is. Unless there are new advantages available, I know I still wont be able to waltz over to Valkurm Dunes and solo my sub-job items as a lowbie. I've read about a quest that allows access behind the Banishing Gates in GC, which obviously required 4 people back then. You can see where my line of thinking is now regarding previous requirements that used to/still do need multiple people. I want to be able to know in advance which jobs I might be locked out of simply because I'm going solo; however, Beastmaster is my ultimate goal - at least at this point. I have a feeling it is the job that I am going to need to successfully survive and do well in the game today - versus the game from 2005.
ANY detailed strategies that begin with level 1 and work onwards towards unlocking, say, Beastmaster - as well as tackling critical missions, quests and farming will be greatly appreciated.
Lastly, since I'm not anti-social I need to just throw out there that if anyone is still active presently, and doesn't mind someone fresh off the boat joining your linkshell, you'd have my gratitude indeed. I would even be willing to select a specific server simply based on this information ahead of time. I need to also say that having a family, a full-time job and a life, I can't play the game like I used to 8+ years ago (all day, no sleep, etc). It would be casual BUT I am interested in playing gradually towards a modest doable end-game setup. I'm not going through the registration and log-in hassle just to walk around the Sarutabaruta for nostalgia purposes! :)
Thank you in advance to whoever takes the time to respond to this. I appreciate it.