Just a hello, I am currently researching Blackmoor and learning how to play with the hopes of DMing again someday. I am an old 1e player now getting comfortable with 5e.

Honestly, I prefer starting out with , and gradually adding in Player's Handbook material as the game progresses.

I could see the appeal of that. I think 5e is great in its emphasis in RP and the flexibility in character creation compared to 1e, but it's also overwhelming and in some ways, I think they may have too much. I know I feel overwhelmed when I look at the 5e classes and abilities vs. 1e.