I always tell new players the same things and it usually helps. So for CoH, here we go:
1- once you start the game, focus on just one mission at a time
2- read everything and talk to npcs around atlas park's city hall
3- do not try to rush or powerlevel (you can miss out on a lot and end up being lost and confused)
4- remember to pace yourself (it will probably take until you reach level20+ before you start to see the overall game)
5- stick to missions that match your level, are lower level, or +1 above your level, for the first 10 levels
6- spend time on the wiki to learn about all the different aspects and read the comics too!
At first it's slower, but as you gain more powers and figure out the best rotation of using them on baddies, you will gain more confidence.
I played Champions Online before CoH, bur continued playing CoH because everything about it is amazing, especially if you like the stories. Yes, the graphics are very outdated and the animations are old school, but after a week or two of playing, their importance fades away as you experience all that CoH has to offer.
I'm not back playing CoH again and I missed it. So many mmorpgs are being taken over by rushers and altaholics. But with CoH you can adventure with and grow your character and feel you are that character when you play! PVE, PVP, RP, CRAFT, EXPLORE, ETC. .
If the graphics really bother you, play no more than an hour each day. After a couple of weeks, you won't care as much and start playing for longer.
Good Luck and Welcome Home to Homecoming!