On the first screen after you start a new game (either by pressing a key, or selecing New from the file menu), you are given the prompts to create a new character.
Sex[edit]
The Sex determines whether your character is male or female. This has no impact on gameplay, but is meant for flavor. While older versions gave female characters an additional 50 gold, this was removed.
Race[edit]
The race is the first important choice in the game. While the Human allows characters to quickly become high level, the other races have slight variations that allow them to become specialized. Beginning players may either favor the Human, Dunadan, or High-Elf, but it's possible to choose another race in order to help create a specialist.
Class[edit]
The class is the second important choice you make. Warriors generally have the best attack power (and also have a better chance of determining if an item is probably worthwhile keeping), while the other classes have a better ability to cast spells.
In general, spellcasters will have trouble casting spells if they are wearing armor.
Warrior[edit]
If you want to go with a warrior, you won't have to worry about monsters trying to drain mana, and you don't need to spend inventory slots on spellbooks (but you may instead have to carry more potions instead.)
Mage[edit]
The mage is extremely weak in melee combat, but more than makes up for it with the variety of attack spells available. It has early access to magic missile and stinking cloud, which are great spells for beginning players.
They can't wear too much armor before losing the ability to cast spells. In addition, they should avoid wearing gloves.
Priest[edit]
The priest has access to defensive magic and healing spells. However, priests do not get to choose which spell they study, instead they are given a random spell from a book they carry.
Priese can wear a bit of armor while still casting spells. However, they are not comfortable using most edged weapons.
Rogue[edit]
The rogue is a Warrior/Mage hybrid, but has limited access to offensive spells.
Ranger[edit]
The ranger is a Warrior/Mage hybrid.
Paladin[edit]
The paladin is a Warrior/Priest hybrid. Unlike priests, they are able to use edged weapons.