So, if unorthodox, is it actually any good? The answer is a resounding 'yes'. I've tried MMOs before, and been thoroughly bored by the monotony that appears prevalent. Guild Wars is more of a game, and less of a lifestyle decision.

Quests in Guild Wars are interesting, the playing area is vast, and there are always plenty of people online to party up with - thanks, no doubt, to the fact that no one is paying hand over fist to be there every month. The storyline is compelling, and the team at ArenaNet, the developers, are tweaking and adding to the game every month. The gameplay itself is great: it's an enjoyable blast-and-cast romp.

Of course, there's so much more to mention. There are dedicated Player vs Player areas, and you have the option to create a non-PvP character, to avoid getting owned on a daily basis by some moron with an inferiority complex. The opportunity to learn a second profession and juggle skillsets provides a wealth of opportunities for experimentation with spell and skill combinations. Baddies are never too tough, never too easy, and the game world looks gorgeous. Your character has to have a surname and a given name. Sounds stupid? You'd be surprised how much more authentic characters feel when they've got two names. It's the little touches that make all the difference.

I could go on for pages and pages, but the simplest thing for you to do is go and buy Guild Wars right now. You owe it to your inner Warrior Monk.