Just re-read your post and it sounds like your remote may be on but not the console. Press the big round button on the front of the XBOX for a few seconds and a ring of green lights should then come on around the button and you're good to go.
Horizontal or vertical is fine. How is it connected to the TV? Scart or HDMI? Make sure you're on the correct AV channel. Try pressing the 'source' or AV button on the remote.
Anyone play this?
Just started and there's a lot to take in. I played Skyrim a few years ago, so am familiar with the general gist of it but could do with a few pointers. What are the guilds all about? Can you fight other players, or just the NPCs?
Any help for a lowly level 8?