It would be a little unfair of me to set a judgement on it right now. So take what I relay with a grain of salt.
Being used to all the other games that are so alike makes it a bit clumsy. Alot of drop down selections, so its a little slower then EQ/AC/DAoC for me(us) as of today. I am sure it will get better. Actually its getting better every time I play it. So it is a little difficult for newbies who are accustomed to thier games.
Do remember that this game is going to allow PC gamers and Console gamers to play with one another. Thats something pretty neat if you ask me.
The world is gorgeous. Alot better then EQ or AC. It even better looking then DAoC. Lag? What lag. For being Japanese servers, there is no freaking lag for me(us). But I am on cable and run very good gaming systems. But I havent heard anyone complain about lag once in game. Not once. Im sure there is some lag (especially video lag for those with poor graphic cards) but noone is complaining.
It does have a "level-grind" to it. But on limited play I got 10 levels (of 70) in just a few days while basically being retarded about everything.
AI has a few new ways to fight you. But I havent even seen any of the really impressive mobs as of yet. So I dont know whats in store, if anything, later on.
There is crafting and everyone has their own small home. The buy/sell between players interface is the best ever in any game.
You can make hotkeys and macros, which should help a lot, but I havent figured it out yet.
So far so good. I paid 50$. As of now I know its worth at least 30$. Hopefully it will continue to improve.
Bottom Line: I could have returned it after the first week for a full refund, and I didn't.