Here is LucasUP's brilliant Lazy Newb Pack, bundled with the ready-made Bentgirder region files. Everything a new player needs in one download. Be sure to click the "Update Savegames" button on the Graphics tab before you start.

If you're ready to start playing, follow the Bentgirder tutorial on Magmawiki.

For more information about the utilities and extras included in the bundle, go to the Lazy Newb Pack forum thread.

If you have any comments on the Bentgirder save or tutorial, please drop by the Bentgirder forum thread.

UPDATE: I uploaded the wrong version. This one has the tilesets in the right place.