I posted this in a related thread but I later thought it would be better as it's own thread. I would really like to know why class requirements are the way they are...
"""
One thing has always frustrated me. When you create a new character you are a warrior and you remain a warrior for some time. Even if you do not want to be. While I am sure that there are good reasons, I personally do not understand why the base classes have been put off limits to new characters. I do not understand why I can not have access to the base classes and sub-classes (warrior, courtier, trader, priest, diplomat) immediately. Sure you should have to join a religion to become a priest, but that is the extent of it in my opinion. Now the specialized sub-classes I get. I see nothing wrong with having to develop your character in order to gain access to the Hero, Cavalier, Infiltrator, Mentor and Ambassador classes. It makes sense in my eyes.
I think that opening up these classes to new characters will provide more possibilities to new players. It gives them more to do until the opportunity to gain a new position (region lord, council member, marshal) presents itself. Sometimes it just gets in the way of a good character concept. I recently created a character in the Far East specifically who is intended to be a devout religious man who has dedicated his life to his god. I could envision him trading goods, performing courtier work or even wielding diplomacy but waging war does not fit him. None the less he has been running around for the last few weeks doing just that. Simply because he has to and for no other reason.
Like I said, there may be good reasons for things being the way they are. Unfortunately I do not see them.
"""