I'm one of those who looks forward to the game, even though I have almost no experience with the series. Only played AC+ a little.
That said, when there's gameplay changes to an established series like this, there will always be some people that will be not so enthusiastic about it. I've seen it with my main game, VF5FS.
Personally, I definitely wouldn't be opposed to sticking around and learning it, if I find it to my liking. Getting beat a lot is just something you have to grin and bear, if you wanna get better. Those that want it will keep playing.