In my opinion it is never too late because the current game design is being done in a way where it's easy for new comers to join and be at the same level with most people for a short period of time. Well that's your character's progression.

But when it comes to hype and the excitement of playing with many people around then it's not like how it used to be any more.

I still like the game but I only play around 2-3 times a week with an hour or 2 per session. Everyone's just waiting for the new PvP season and the new raid now.

PVP = opposing faction players can kill you in open world.
PVE = can't kill you unless you turn on your "pvp flag".