Just log onto Ironclad Online (ICO), create an account and a player name, and hang out in the Lobby channel.  You could play humans v. AI games or seek out games with other new players.  Anyway, welcome to the online multiplayer community.

I see,  I'm in the US on the East Coast.  I'm normally on between 9pm and 10pm each night.  I've been apart of Stardock since the first Galactic Civilizations game.  

Add me on skype or msn so we can talk?

Skype name: spel565

btw i got entrenchment

If you spend time on ICO, you'll soon get to know people and make friends.  If you're concerned about having to play against highly-skilled players, you might consider starting out playing comp stomp games (humans v. AI) where you won't have any human opponents but you'll get to know your allies and perhaps become friends over time.  Many people play comp stomps online.  Once you start to feel more comfortable about it, you can start playing against your friends or other people.  Your best bet is probably to just dive right in.  At least come online and play comp stomps.

I'd be up for vanilla Sins (don't have Entrenchment...).

In game name: Gr33nF00t

Add me, and if you see me online, gimme a hollar

I'm waiting for all the expansions to be boxed together so I can get it in stores.