“This book is not only a history of online gaming and one of its most important institutions, it is also the record of the birth of a new form of social organization and interaction,” said editor Stephen M. Carey, Ph.D., professor of Medieval Studies at Georgia State University.
Established in early 1996 by guildmaster Sean Stalzer, The Syndicate is among the oldest online guilds and, by many measures, the most successful in history. For many millions of players worldwide, guilds have become an integral part of the technological phenomenon of online fantasy role-playing games. The Syndicate has been a preeminent force in these games, and its influence is evident in many corners of the gaming world.
“We were interested in publishing the first book ever written about an online guild, and it was obvious from the very beginning that we would approach The Syndicate for this project,” said Anthony N. Verrecchia, President and Founder of Avari Press. “Without giving away all their secrets, this book explains how they have been able to achieve their success not only in the game but in creating such an organized community.
“Their management style, their organization, their strict code, and their ability to mobilize huge groups of people are quite impressive,” said Verrecchia. “They are very focused on their goals while maintaining a high level of fun and camaraderie.”
