Dragon dogma (beginners guide)

I tried dd a while ago and was very underwhelmed by it, but since the new version came out I've decided to give it another go.
I know there is at least 1 other dd thread but all I'm looking for is a bit of advice on getting started and general information.
When I first played it I started with a magic toon but didn't think much of it, is it worth preserving with or is it better to stick to weapons.
Also pawn system, can they learn anything or do they stick to what class they start with.
Any help would be appreciated.

Always have a mage in your team.

The hybrid classes are the best to play as.

for your main pawn have them as a mage so you can control the spells your team utilises offensively/defensiely/support, but you learn lots of.. augments i think they're called? the things you equip that give bonus health, defence etc. you need to train both yourself and your pawn in several classes so that you can utilise the abilities best you can

Having a pawn with a giant boy (ranger i think they're called) is useful too, they just knock everything down which is cool.

Isn't much advice you need for DD really, though avoid the escort side missions like the plague, they're so crappy and boring

Yeah, I'd say read up on the hybrid classes, then shoot for becoming one of those, whichever sounds best to you. I myself had a lot of fun as a magick archer. Some of its skills are pretty useful, especially for fighting at night or in the dark.