I do not have any questions... But I will throw my two cents in. Admittedly my view point is in the DISTINCT minority as far as how most gamers feel about things.
Firstly. I despise ranks. I know that in quite a few MMOs, there is a lot of end game content such as instance dungeons and such that require a little bit of structure to lead big groups. As of right now though, TLOPO doesn't really fit into that category. I belong to a small, close-knit 'family-feel' kind of guild. Even though I was very vocal about not wanting to be an officer, I was made one anyway.... Regardless, my guild mates know that I consider them equals and that their voice is every bit as important as mine. If a guild has gotten so big and full of randomly invited people of differing opinions, attitudes and behavior that they require a babysitter to keep them in line or something like that, the guild was probably built on a poor foundation. Ranks also often have the VERY sad effect of becoming popularity contests or something similar to that. There is already so much structure in real life. I do not care to have it in my entertainment. I also do not need a title or rank in an imaginary world to feel fulfilled or accomplished. I have already done that to a great degree in real life and I know my worth.
All of that being said, these guilds do have the prerogative of making that a requirement. In TLOPO, we agreed to a set of behavior, rules and constants. So long as a guild does not violate those 'Master' rules, I would think that a member who joins is agreeing to allow themselves to fall under the guild rules. I agree that requirements such as discord for rank is trivial, but if that is their rules... The guild is probably not for you. (Or me for that matter) ... I have been invited to TONS of guilds... But very, very few have the same overall approach to what a guild should be that I do.
My suggestion, (and this means most likely NOT being a part of a huge guild or a guild containing moderators and such) would be to investigate options that more closely mirror your preferences... Or perhaps better yet (if you are up to the patient and monumental task) founding and slowly growing a guild that matches your preferences. My thought has always been, if I feel this way, most likely there are many more who also feel this way.
I'm sure by now you know I appreciate you Jack. I most sincerely hope you find EXACTLY what you are looking for in order to enjoy TLOPO to the fullest! I understand your frustration and I agree with you on many levels... Some people like to take something simple, fun and entertaining and turn it into something complicated, over-structured and more chaotic than is necessary.
I am most CERTAINLY also not bashing on these guilds... If they are big and relatively successful then it is obvious that certain things that they are doing are appealing to many people... Even if it is the 'bragging rights' of belonging to a big guild full of notable people.
You take care my friend. Think things over carefully and I hope you find what you are looking for!
