A few weeks ago I was chatting in World Chat and asked 'How playable is the game without doing the book quests?'. The over-whelming response was 'just fine, have to do access quests to Moria etc but go for it' so I did.

I then created a wandering minstrel called Thellonious but decided to take it a little further. I have disabled quest icones on the map, disabled quest pointers, I disable XP as soon as the fights start getting easy, I don't unlock travel locations unless I actually run/ride there, not googling locations but will ask for general help in WC or KC plus I am trying to complete the 'Deeds of the XXXX' in each area. The upshot is I am having so much more fun!! Yes the combat is still not challenging really but I am finding quests I never knew about (surprise party in Bree springs to mind), doing quests I haven't done for years and generally taking my time and enjoying the world.

I know this won't be everyones cup of tea, and tbh I always take it slow (after 6 years playing I still have never hit cap), but to rediscover some of the hidden little gems in the game I highly recommend it.

Only downside is you have to keep a close eye on XP though. Was 14th, got a set of 15th quests for the old forest which is fine but also got a 16th quest to go to Adso's camp. At my pace I would of been 19th by the time I got out of the forest so disabled XP nigh on as soon as I entered the forest!!

Anyhoo I just thought I would share the experience, and if those who advised me to go for it are reading then a massive thank you. You've helped me reignite my love for the game, and coincidently get behind on my work from home !!

Regards