I was in the first wave of the Shadowbane beta. I like to play MMORPGs and I play Dark Age of Camelot daily. I would like to think I have a fine eye for these types of games. That said.
I really really did not like shadowbane. The interface is horrid. I do not think they could design a worse possible interface for this game. Shadowbane is really promising for the extremely detailed character development and Player versus Player features, but I could not stand playing the game long enough to enjoy those aspects of the game.
It is built off the Morrowind core for graphics and anyone who has played Morrowind will see many many familiar landscapes and interface bugs in this game. No touchups.
In Shadowbane, unlike many other MMORPGs, you have an overwhelming amount of choices in how to specialize your character. The different classes of the game can basically take up any weapon or skill. You just have to gain experience and spend your gained levels on the skills.
It was very promising, but very flawed and rushed. In my opinion, everyone would be better off to find a friend who has bought it and see if you like it, or skip it altogheter and buy DAoC or Everquest. I think you would be much happier with them if you are looking for a MMORPG!