True. In these respects, it will be easier. We are more familiar with how to modify our UI’s and what addons we each like and use. What will be harder is remembering that at level 10, you can’t pull 10 guys and survive. You have to pull smart. You have to know when to run. You have to remember that crossing the Bulwark from Tirisfal Glade to Western Plaugelands at level 15 will get you killed.
There is a lot of stuff that makes the game easier to manage that we will be using. The mechanics of encounters are very different though. Things like respecs are expensive so you have to be careful on talent selection. No mounts until 40. Instances where CC is expected. These things are aspects of the game that I, personally, miss and that I think add dimension to the game.
On a lark, after the stress test weekend, I made a new character in retail. I avoided using my heirlooms and buying bags. In Classic, it took me about 6 hours of /played time to make level 10. In retail, 6 hours got me to 25.
The change in XP curve, the changes in gear, the changes to mana regen speed in combat… All these things change how the game is played.
I think you’re right, experience with the game and how to make the UI work for you will make it easier than when we played for the first time 15 years ago. But there will still be people that can’t handle the mechanics.