From what I've seen in Shadowbane Beta + the first six months of release as a member of Cadre Quietus in COS: It helped tremendously to have allies when or shortly after, entering the game.

Every guild I witnessed that tried to go it alone got stomped. It's usually pretty silly to have pre-fabricated alliances before entering a game, but Beta is a good time to meet up with other guilds of like minds and purpose (or hiring on scoundrels for the dirty work) and ally for ultimate success.

Also: If Darkfall kicks the bucket, there's always Age of CONAN or even, Chronicles of Spellborn (these two have solid producers and will release in a timely manner). Seriously looks like a good game as well.

Just my .02

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image from nodiatis.com]