I remember photics publishing that there was an intiate fee not long after GWs went public, because so many people were wanting in. At the time, I believe the guild was building a "war chest" so as to purchase a guild hall, and I believe other high end items that an individual would have been hard pressed to get alone.
I agree that it is a good move for any high profile guild. Could you imagine what Idiot Savant's must get in requests per day or EViL now after the world championships?
BTW, I would like to say that Arrow along with two of his guildies got together with myself and Galdor for our first "date." We are pleased to say, that things went well, and prospects for future "dates" seem very high. We would like to thank photics.com for helping us meet each other. Yes, I know...buy your book.