Fairly new player, just over a year.  Programmer for 50 years.  I don't have the fastest internet so downloads are always a pain.  Noticed that they are getting longer and harder to deal with.  Still dealing with this current download now days later.  Have my guesses on why.  ;-)

That being said, I would suggest downloads for different stages of the game.  Nothing worse then waiting days to play a new game if your internet speeds are poor.  A download for say no more then player level 30 (just wagging here on level) would be much faster for new players.  Then you add new downloads/patches (clan, arena, cursed city, etc...) when new content becomes available.  Would save allot of time and assuming server space etc..., especially when only a percentage continue on with the game.   Trying to get new player started and to be honest, he may punt and not even try the game as now been downloading for over a day.