I realize I'm a *bit* biased
but I prefer the Druid as the "Swiss Army Knife of EQ." I recall when I was around 30ish or so, an older Druid told me that Druids are weaker in earlier levels but then become very powerful later. I found this to be so (playing Old World back in the day with no mercs) at around the 55ish level - or whenever it is we start getting good healing spells. I began my druid over 7 years ago, taking years off here and there, have created, played to about 20, then deleted most other races/classes, but still find I prefer the Druid for the overall versatility (all the obvious plus porting/tracking, etc.).
I'm now level 80 and wouldn't trade my druid for any class. She has a Journeyman tank merc which is working out well. My first created toon is my High Elf Pally so she'll never be deleted either; she uses a wizard merc.
The age-old advice is to play whatever class you most enjoy. Especially now with mercs, most classes can solo fairly effectively.
Oh - I'm on FV as well so feel free to send a tell my way if you need some buffs, porting, or just to say hi. My druid is Terrillian and my Pally is Azalysa. I plan to be on my Pally the most beginning tomorrow with double xp weekend to get her to level 59. (Yes I created her over 7 years ago. I enjoy the journey. *grins*)
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Terrillian Mistfyre
Owner/Operator of The Redhead Express
Intellectually honest, not politically correct