I've played Iron Realms from when I was 12. Give it some thought. If I ever felt it wasn't worthy of my time, I wouldn't have spent 6 years hooked on their games.
I've met so many friends from IRE, and from one of them (he lives in Netherlands), hell, says his english improved playing IRE. XD C'mon. Enough incentive?
'sides, there are really moar benefits than disadvantages. Try them, don't get discouraged by people asking you to change your name. It's part of the roleplay-oriented environment we have; have fun after that! <3 My 5/5 stars!