Here are some reviews of Anarchy Online to help you decide on this game:

Reviewer: Craig Morrison - IGN
Review Summary:

Shadowlands not only meets its rivals head on in terms of content for players of all levels, but in many ways saunters past them without breaking sweat. There is just so much to see and do that even the most established players will still be making discoveries for months to come.
The shame is that the stigma of Anarchy Online's launch may some deter people from exploring this wonderful expansion. If you leave your pre-conceptions at the door and take the plunge you may just discover that the next generation MMORPG you have been waiting for is already here.

Reviewer: GameFAQs Reader
Review Summary:

This game is great, and an amazing experience for every gamer that`s out there. I personally recommend this game, and to Final Fantasy-fans out there(Like me), you will almost GUARANTEED fall in love with this game. The wide choice of professions are great, and ensures a long span of lifetime for this game. There are some small problems and bug`s, but in the end, they don`t prevent it from being one of the best games for a long long time. And maybe the best online-based game ever. Strongly recommended, buy it!