is direct IP connect somehow better than jioning via the multiplayer browser. I can't see why it would be ... but how you phrased it makes it seem that way.
I would say that it's safe to buy now. It's slower than I'd like, particularily later on in the game. But with a 6-pack beside me, I can cope. I can't imagine playing on anything less than a broadband connect or with pings over 200 though.
It's worth the purchase, besides Amazon has lowered hte price by 5$ to 25$ ... and it's definately worth 25$ to get to play one of my fav games with some buds.