The guide is somewhat like an iPad; when you see one advertised its mildly impressive but practically useless. Yet when you pick one up and play with it, a bit of techno-lust creeps up from within your innards. If you're going to get one then make sure to get the collectors edition, go big or go broke in my opinion. As far as content goes I am foggy on what exactly is included by the manufacturer in order to positively reinforce uber-nerddom or hapless fanboy-itis, but if one were going for aesthetics only then this edition thwacks the ball out of the park. Printed on thick, crisp artwork paper, the collectors guide sports quite an artsy-fartsy quality throughout. What sold me on the thing were the highly detailed character development graphs. Furthermore there are tables upon tables of recommended levels and strengths your party should have prior to advancement along the storyline. If you're going for a rapid play through then the book will most likely give tactical advice (a dedicated section) which will facilitate this endeavor.