But no one actually uses the Online Chat. Most cases of harassment usually can be found on Side Chat, well aside from the Flame Forum, but in real time perspective, Side definitely has it's turn-offs for new players
I'm almost always in Online Chat, it really is a great way of getting in contact with people who are at the computer but in a different window with the beep upon name.
I think the problem most "new players" have is when people are having public fights. If the player is not mature enough to realize these happen in every game, and blame our game for it, then I don't see the problem with them leaving - they clearly are not ready for gaming within a community.
Those that can get past this however, soon find their place in the game and get hooked.
More than anything, new players need to know that we're not against them, but if they ask for free stuff in sidechat we're going to react negatively. Beggars are the bane of many a player, and they're the only ones anyone has an issue with.
To anyone new or looking to play the game soon, I welcome you on behalf of a game I've loved for over 6 years. See you ingame.