New Player

[Distance]

hello,

Thought I ask a question or two while I install and configure to play.

I'm looking for recommendations on what class to play. For reference, I played from early Kunark to before GoD, as well as a little stint during TSS. My favorite classes were always shaman, necromancers, druids. Particularly pet classes, kiting, and root rotting were what I enjoyed.

So what I'm asking, I think:

Do these mechanics function -- fear, kiting, etc.? Are pet classes viable to solo with and how do pets compare necro/mage/shaman? I've read typically on emu's they are fairly potent.

I understand grouping is important here and I would love to be a part of community, however, I don't want to be absolutely relegated to being unable to accomplish anything without a group.

Just looking for any advice,

Thanks.