New Player - Starting Class Advice

[Zheta]

Hi! I know this isn't the first thread on the subject, but I was hoping for some personalized advice.

I originally played EQ for about a year or two after it was released, and I loved the atmosphere and player-base. I also had the unfortunate problem of being a Ranger, and I would quickly fall behind friends and acquaintances in levels.

I am most interested in playing Project 1999 for the social and group aspects. Therefore, I want a very group friendly class. In most games I enjoy playing a support role or healing role. Though in many MMOs such as FFXI and WoW, I also really enjoy(ed) tanking.

Right now I am considering playing a Cleric or a Paladin. Do enough people play to consistently form groups? I think I would prefer to play a Cleric or another healer/support class, but I would gladly play Paladin if it would make grouping easier. I am, however, very afraid of the XP penalty.

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