One thing for sure, I am seeing new faces on Trykers Refuge Area every day (NA Server). Not crampy, but comfortable enough to hear some juicy gossips/chats in the chat window everytime..
And that also means that more players who camped at this "open" forum has moved private. Which I think is the reason why newer posts on the "open" forum are mostly "seeking reviews" types instead of the initial "anything about Ryzom" after game launch.
Personally, user reviews are for reference. You'll be doing yourself a misfavour by listening only to negative/positive feedbacks and make decision based on that. (Remember how movie critics condemned your favorite movie?)
It's a pity no trial periods (e.g. 10 days, or up to level 10) are given for Ryzom at this stage. But I think the developers are hearing your appeals loud enough....