Originally posted by jonnin:

start over. Its not like you LOSE your old character or worlds, you can have both.
Its not really fun to be the new guy with nothing while your buddy cuts a troll in half with one hit. And its a big loss in this game to get powered up to max gear without doing any of the content. Starting over is the best way, and you have enough knowledge now to still put your experience to good use so it will be easier & faster this time.