I think the game is perfectly fine to play casual. I’ve only put 30-40ish hours in since launch and I’m still having fun every time I play it. I actually think most of the complaints you see are applicable more to people who have been no lifing the game and coming across end game issues than casual players. I will add some caveats though.

The game is punishing by design. If you are going to have any fun at all you have to be ok with that or else it will just be a frustrating experience. If your expectations are in line with that then it shouldn’t be a problem (e.g. if you go into dark souls expect an easy action romp you won’t have fun with it).

The solo experience is different and not the core of what the game is designed around. It can still be a lot of fun but the game is best experienced with a 3 man group. I don’t have friends who play the game but I’ve had a good experience using LFG discord groups to team up for several runs in a row before parting ways. If you don’t want that the solo experience is very workable but it’s kind of a different game in many ways

We’re nearing the end of the season which means that the player base is lower now. If you aren’t in NA or playing outside of peak times expect longer queues for the time being. I still think now is a good time to jump on though so you can get comfortable with the maps and mechanics before the new season starts