no UO isn't Text based you only use text to talk to other people. You have Skills to learn, Crafting, Fighting, tons.
Here is a link to a shard to d/l UO: Reneisance:
http://www.theabyss.ru/?files&lang=en
To change servers simply change the Login info in the Program files.
I'm currently looking for a "Shard" to play on unfortunately.
Sorry if i posted a link am i allowed to or what??