Quote from Rynn;1278695:
While a great guide once upon a time, it is extremely outdated so you should look elsewhere for guidance if making a new character.
Despite a few references to the times, what's said in this guide is still very helpful. Specifically, his detailed skill leveling build and advocation for a glass canon build in order to maximize leveling speed. His guide covers early game very well for the total novice. Really, all that's missing is his addition of bash, and lullaby+overture. Does he need to mention lances? Probably not, aside as a source of more strength, since human close combat melee is top tier at the moment. Any gear specifics can be found elsewhere, but still not a bad reference.