How much does faction affect gameplay?

[Skullinabeer]

I recently decided to start a character on p1999 to scratch my nostalgia itch. I played in high school (during the POP times, so this will be very different) and rolled evil because my friends already had established characters.

I was going to roll an Ogre SK (which was my main last time) and I am worried about two things:
1. If i go evil does that drastically restrict the cities, towns and zones I can explore?
2. Is it a bad choice to pick the same race/class combination instead of trying something new?

I want to cast spells but I enjoy the experience so much more when I'm actively involved in combat bashing mobs with large weapons.

Given the amount of time it takes to get characters to advance and my limited playtime available now, I don't want to put too much effort into a race/class if i will ultimately regret it.

Advice? Thanks in advance!