First, without the (excellent) documentation on the NS4 boards, it would be nearly impossible to get started. Since that documentation exists, there is no problem here
Second, the quartermaster (i joined the Northern Coalition) hands out weapons you cant use. In other words, if you're say playing a cleric and buy yourself a shortsword (stupid, i know) you're in trouble: you've spent your cash, and can only get some by bashing critters with your fists.
Third, after the introduction, and leaving the fortress i felt somewhat lost. I wandered around, went into a dryad cave and saw all sorts of creatures that were friendly. I came to the end of that cave, saw a queen, but she wouldnt talk to me. It would be helpful if all dryads you spoke to would tell you something like: there's nothing for you here, or come back when you're more powerfull.
This would be an invitation to explore that place somewhat later, and would help players avoiding long walks that lead to nowhere. Another solution might be a portal at the end that transports you to the surface. Just to save players the walk back
NS4 looks pretty cool. I think it's very interesting, but it's hard to find your way in there.. Good luck with the server, i'll be back in there, once in awhile to see what's changed and explore some more
Greetings,
-Ranges
).