Do people really use WASD for navigation and games? I know that's the default configuration for a lot of things but to me it seems very unnatural, unless you hitting the W with the ring finger and even that it strange. Using ESDF if a much more natural since your fingers are at home position and the middle finger is appropriately used for UP.

What's the history behind the silly WASD choice?

I've played all versions of Tribes and without a doubt these games are best games of all time. There is a bit of a learning curve to them but once you get it the fun is endless especially if you play with group of friends or a good team. If you like FPS and you have not played them you have not lived.