After you download the trial and get a feel for what you would like to play. Depending on your connection. You can drop an extra 20 bucks for an advance character token (especially if you like taming). And it gives you a good boost.

You can play uo and watch tv. Gaining skill, in many cases is just a repetitive motion and if you have 2x monitors, a movie and training a skill is a very good tactic. Unlike the newer MMORPG's, ultima online isnt an experience grind. It is however a skill grind and you will find yourself casting magery spell after magery spell to get gains.

Pick a shard with lots of players. These days, everyone is condensing to fewer shards. You dont want to choose a shard that is small (unless thats your thing). Bigger shards you will find friends easier as well as items.

Good luck and if you have any questions icq me: 10295407 aim: evil splendor

http://uo.stratics.com - life saver.