Character Creation AssistanceFollow

Alright, here I come, head first, not even looking.

My copy of EQOA:F will arrive in about a week. So until then, I find myself facing the daunting task of creating a first-level character that both can manage to stay alive long enough to level and will attract enough interest that the character will have someone to adventure with (i.e. someone to help watch my back!)

I often play Rangers and that is what I am leaning toward. I love the use of the bow and arrow, and the numerous enchanting spells make this all the more fun. However, I also find the Enchanter class quite intriguing. Shadowknight would also be a blast.

So... I ask of you... your opinions. What would you recommend and what is your advice for creation of said character? Where should I place my Level 1 character when I do plug them into the game (meaning what server)?

I'm not big on healing or hand-to-hand. I do like the occasional hack and slash but prefer standing back and pinging away from afar. The only downside to that is sometimes less experience than the frontliners. I do like light magic, more of enchanting spells really. I like being sneaky and hard to figure out. Haven't decided on an alignment yet, thought Chaotic Good is my way of choice more often than not. I just like the freedom that either chaotic alignment gives you.

Okay, anyway, I'll stop now. Please, bring on the comments. And thank you already. I can't wait to get started and become part of this amazing world.

P.S. I have a headset. How necessary is a keyboard and where can I find one cheap if I absolutely need to have one.