If you want a headstart just to test out the diversities of the game, well, Single Player it then.
But I've only been here for a short while and already gained alot of respect from pilot's who's flying around in Battleships (not even mentioning the factions). It took alot of hard work and patience and Lord knows what else to get there, thus must be respected.
Now every goon who's mommy bought him Freelancer for his birthday can become an instant Battlecruise captain...:dry:
The hole point to Freelancer, I feel, is to explore and fight your way to the top. That's how true respect is earned...:cool: