A Beginner's Guide to the P1999 Raid Scene?

[Brontus]

I've been playing P1999 for about a year now and enjoying myself with various low to mid level characters. Some of them have reached level 50 and now I am starting to contemplate joining a raiding guild on this server.

Back in days of yore on EQ live, raiding was very rewarding as it enabled you to progress your character and enjoy a sense of camaraderie with your fellow gulidmates. And yes, it took a lot of work but the sense of satisfaction of taking down a uber boss was immense.

However, I have read many unsavory things about the P1999 raid scene on these forums. From all all accounts its seems like Lord of the Flies where a lot guilds are competing for a few raid targets. Apparently you need to have a "bat phone" and be ready to log on your character at a moments notice. I also hear that many guilds have raiding targets and zones on lockdown and sell looting rights to the highest bidder. After all of this, I'm honestly wondering if it's worth it to join a guild.

I have tried to read the Raid Discussion forums but the language is so complex, convoluted and full of legalese that my head hurts.

Does anyone have some advice or can provide links to a beginner's guide for new players about what to expect and what's really going on with the P1999 raid scene?

What are the pros and cons to joining a raiding guild?

How much time per week must one devote to a raiding guild?

This is not a troll post. I am really looking for some honest analysis of what is going on here and what to expect if I were to join a raiding guild. Thanks in advance for any guidance that anyone can provide. [You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.]