Not having played with any of the new toys, I have to take your comments without any critical test. I would, very much, like to see just what the story is, though, in anger. Thinking back to my early days and a few frights along the way ...
Certainly have to concur with your thoughts that preparation and knowledge go a long way to setting one up for a successful outcome ... providing there is a reasonable amount of practice in there, as well ... along with a healthy dosage of conservatism.