After reading the third and final issue of The Guild comic (written by Felicia Day and art by Jim Rugg) I have to say that the comic adaptation of this cult web series is impressive. I feared that the comic would try to tell the same story– which can very well lead to disaster in trying to recreate an already well-loved story.

Instead, Felicia takes it from the top and explores Codex’s first interest in World of Warcraft. Here, she appeals to many of the motives that gamers have for playing. Like, when you find out you’re boyfriend is a huge asshole, is stealing your music, and is possibly gay. Yeah… I think that would do it. It’s a new complimentary twist on the television series, because you’re seeing their avatars. Sure, she takes some liberties regarding the boundaries of the game (like how she manages to be the same level as her “will-be” guild mates) but it still works, and works well.

Given the comic platform, Day was able to explore the landscape of her virtual game much more successfully than in television. Although Day may have been nervous to expand into this medium, she did it by breaking through the television box and playing to the strengths. Being able to separate the avatar from the person behind the screen, gave rise to new plot lines and a more of a virtual-based comic, which is an obvious obstacle when creating the television show.

But there can be no doubt that although these characters live in World of Warcraft, there is an authentic story being told about the people who play. This relation is what keeps you engaged.

When Blizzard decided to release their own comic, I found it impossible to get into it. Although I love playing my level 80 Discipline Priest (nerd-dip?), I’m not as interested in their story lines as I am with the people behind the avatars. I mean, even in-game those repeat story lines where you wait 5 minutes to attack, gets old.

The Guild bridges this gap, both in comic and television form… oh and music video form. If you haven’t checked out the release of Felicia Day’s new music video (announced at Comicon) starring the cast of the Guild, we’ve embedded it right here for you.

If you’re a World of Warcraft fan, then this comic blasts Leeroy Jenkins and ROFLMAO out of the water. I am sure we will be seeing much more from Felicia Day in the future.

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