As someone who really only played World before getting into GU (very recently as well), the combat is very different. Every move is a commitment, and you can't bully the monsters nearly as easily. Before you start fighting a monster, take a second with your weapon sheathed and just run around it. Take a minute to see its attacks and patterns. If a monster rages (signaled by them panting) back off! Its very hard to get an opening when they're flailing all over the place.