Can a newbie join this game?

Zeifear

Without being destroyed repeatedly by more experienced players I mean.  I just bought this online and was gonna check it out.  I really had no interest in this before but I lost interest to all other games.  Thanks guys.

DraigCoch

Yes

Drakolus

Yes you can join as a newbie.  The map is based on security status.  Anything 0.5-1.0 is patrolled by the NPC police called "CONCORD" and is about as safe as it gets.  Someone shoots at you and Concord shows up and owns them in about 5-10 seconds (give or take).  Once you go below .5 space though you are taking your safety into your own hands.  Also if you stay in the newbie NPC corp you are pretty much safe from war declarations.  Also as long as you retain some form of manners you should be safe in high sec space (dont steal other peoples jetison cans and such).

That being said most of the fun and higher profit margins are in lower security space.  .1-.4 is semi-dangerous with very limited protection.  Higher priced minerals can be found out in this region for mining and its a good training ground for light pvp and such. 

0.0 is freespace.  You may do as you wish pretty much.  That being said a large portion of it is claimed by various Alliances.  Many of them are hostile to neutrals in their territory so I suggest checking with them before you scratch that explorer itch.  EVE is an immensly deep game and the learning curve is quite high.  Listen to the help channel, read all the guides you can and dont be afraid to ask other players for help.  Some may listen, some may not but they are generally helpful and friendly if you can get them to slow down a bit

Also forgot to mention.  Joining a PC corp is the way to go.  Take your time and find a good one for you.  This can greatly increase your profits, safety and fun.

Zeifear

Thank you, that is very informative and by now I was able to attempt the game myself and I have to say, its very complex and just my kind of game.  I especially like the interface and battle system and I really think Im gonna have fun with this one.