Guild Wars on Sale at Circuit City 'til Oct 7
Just in case anyone needs to pick up one or the other (or both). These prices are in-store, as well...and they're for the standard edition, obviously. GW Prophecies: $38 http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Guild-Wars-PC/sem/rpsm/oid/119974/catOid/-12841/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do GW Factions: $30 http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Guild-Wars-Factions-PC/sem/rpsm/oid/149051/catOid/-12841/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Are they both stand alone or do you need prophecies to play factions? Which one do you play the most?

They're stand alone although Factions will make more sense, obviously, if you have Prophecies. Prophecies would be my recommendation, especially if you are unfamiliar with a MMORPG. The gaining of levels is painfully slow (compared to chapt. 2 Factions) but the game itself is geared towards a much longer progression. It also lends itself better to shorter gaming sessions (i.e. if you want to quest a little more slowly). Factions is a much faster paced experience with your being near level 20 (max for the entire series, regardless of chapter) when you leave "newbie" Shing Jea Island. It is a much different experience. The main disadvantages to having Prophecies but not Factions is neglible if you're unaware of them ;). Prophecies armor differs in looks and attributes whereas Factions armors can be purchased and the same look can have any of the attributes. For example, if a necro buys Tyrian (Prophecies) Bloodstained boots, they have a certain look that is only achieved with Bloodstained boots. In Cantha, you can purchase any of the styles (looks) of necro armor with the attribute for Bloodstained boots (+armor while controlling minions). Another advantage Factions has that Prophecies does not is materials storage. But as a new player, it shouldn't be a problem any time soon. I play both. The youngest avatars are Canthan, of course. My Prophecies characters (who haven't been 'retired') are finished with that game except for completing mission bonuses or exploring although I take them across the sea to help friends out from time to time. I do have a monk there still, and if I had some incentive (hint hint), I'd create another Tyrian (Prophecies) character. I have retired several good adventurers after their successful stint as Hero :). Shall I see you in Tyria and we shall fulfill the Prophecies together?

Since it's on sale, I'll buy it this week. I probably won't get online though till I get highspeed internet. Unfortunately, AT&T hasn't set up the installation time yet.