This game moves way too fast.

[NOYZBOT]

I feel that I need to air my grievances.

The combat is way too fast. I cannot react at all to what's happening, the jump makes me go FLYING across the arena, and basically no matter what I do, the AI can react faster than I and everything feels more like luck than strategy.

I am a brand new player (started today) and I feel these are off-putting to someone completely unfamiliar with the play style.

Is there anything I can do? Or is it something that should just be taken into consideration?

[Gyrth]

A difficulty setting is being implemented at the moment. So it should be easier for new players in the future.
(Even though I don't agree with that.)

[halzoid]

You know, back in my day we didn't have this here difficulty setting. We had to learn the hard way through blood, sweat and tears, mostly blood...

I don't think Og's ever going to be truly easy, but who knows, maybe another invincibility mod'll come out. It's all about practice, listen out for audio cue's, they signal you to block, try not to jump too much unless you know you'll nail a leg cannon. also, try not to get surrounded... not good when you get ganged up on.

[NOYZBOT]

listen out for audio cue's, they signal you to block

what if, for instance, I can't hear? do you think there will be any visual cues?

[halzoid]

they attack

Aim to block just before they hit, the quicker the attack (by moving closer and staying still) the less time to block is given, so they require quicker reactions
It's tough...