As someone who is absolutely new to all of this (I never played when it was "live" and just happened to find this amazing game by searching games online while looking to replace my FPS addiction ), it's absolutely thrilling to hear that so many of you focus on backstory and character concept to determine the journey you embark upon and the developmental path you follow. With my inexperience (and frankly, ignorance) in regards to the vast amount of variables one must take into account when attempting to "maximize" a character's performance (and with so many attributes), my only course was to build upon a backstory foundation and select power pools and abilities that seemed instinctively in line with the origin I had dreamed up. I am certain that my Emp Magic Defender is nowhere near what a veteran player would consider effectively "optimized". However, I have made it to 50 level 6 Veteran, and am capable of holding my own in a team environment (while contributing quite well with heals and buffs). At the same time because of my not so "traditional" selections during development (and more accurately, because of my not knowing any better) my toon has been able to make quite a bit of her journey soloing. My point? There are so many ways to enjoy this game and so many approaches one can take, its reassuring to know that there is no "wrong" way to go about the journey, as long as you are having an amazing time! At some point I might be able to go down the more analytical path towards absolutely maximizing every single aspect of my character's build, and I might even take steps towards mastering all of the intricacies that entails. But for now, I am having a ton of fun with my first build and am quite proud of it.
Also, its worth mentioning that at no time have I encountered a veteran player who has focused any ill attitude towards me for not being fully optimized. Rather, everyone has been friendly, helpful, and eager to enhance the overall gaming experience. For that, I thank all of you! :)