well the current version is 1.2.3, but i heard that alot of people were having trouble with the the 1.2.3 full install... So, i recommend downloading 1.2, and then patching it up to 1.2.3.
EVM is a mod of ESF, it's not requiered, it has more trans, but that's about it.. I heard it was really unbalanced, too.
Tips: don't give up, the learning curve is very high... just watch how people play and try to copy them... and always try to keep moving... times when you're standing still is when you get owned.. and also have fun.