Apologies if this is a stupid question, but I assume in the release game that you will start at level 1 not level 4 or whatever? I certainly hope so! I assume this is just because it's easier to test thing (e.g. magic, skills) at a higher level?

 

Also - how far into the game is the beta start point? I assume it's not the same as the release point start point will be? I assume for similar reasons to above?

Yes you'll start at level 1.

 

You'll get access to the Dyrford just before the middle point in the game.

Technically you start at level 1 on the beta. 

Technically you start at level 1 on the beta. 

 

Yes, but you can level to class 4 immediately, which I didn't like. Will you properly start at Level 1 on the release game and have to work your way all the way up?

Yes you'll start at level 1.

 

You'll get access to the Dyrford just before the middle point in the game.

 

Okay, thanks

Yes you'll start at level 1.

 

You'll get access to the Dyrford just before the middle point in the game.

To further clarify the devs at one point said you should probably arrive at Dyrford around level 5-6.  But it is possible to get there as low as 3 if you really take a weird route.

You can see 20-30mins from the start/introduction level of the full game in the following video, it cuts off just before they get to the start of the story.