I'm new to this site and would like some kind of "getting started" page. This site is bewildering with its complexity of options. I have no idea where to begin and I can't seem to find any pointers (at least not in twenty minutes of looking).

I'd like to play pente, in the ladder (stair) or tournaments, and to get a ranking. But there are so many different options I can't tell what counts for what, etc. Any help?