I keep reading every book in the #BossFightBooks collection.

Everquest, by Matthew S. Smith, takes a journalistic approach (like Minesweeper or Day of the Tentacle recently). I usually prefer the ones that are personal (e.g. Galaga, WoW) but some of the last ones have not been great.

Therefore, if you want to know everything about the main inspiration for World of Warcraft, it's in that book. It is extremely well paced and well written. You recognise the work of a professional journalist. Sadly, there is no real place for reception: how did people play it? Who were these people, what did the game bring to them, how did they organise, etc. I would have enjoyed a few testimonies from common players.

Still, I totally recommend it! Good work Matthew S. Smith.

https://bossfightbooks.com/products/everquest-by-matthew-s-smith