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Guild Wars gets its first major gameplay update in almost 20 years
ArenaNet and co-developer 2Weeks have announced Guild Wars Afterlife, the first major gameplay update for the original game in almost 20 years. It marks a renewed investment in the long-running MMO, which had largely been left running while ArenaNet focused on Guild Wars 2.
Afterlife adds a changing dungeon, a skill-drafting system that reshuffles players’ skill bars between runs, a new story and the region of Xotecha. It is due on PC and mobile on 13 January next year, priced at $29.99, €29.99 or £25.99, with a 20 per cent pre-order discount. The previous major addition was the Eye of the North expansion in August 2007; ArenaNet is now supporting Guild Wars Reforged, Guild Wars 2 and the forthcoming Guild Wars 3.
In short
- Guild Wars Afterlife is its first major update in almost 20 years.
- It adds a dynamic dungeon, skill drafting and a new story.
- The expansion launches on 13 January next year.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Afterlife could bring a valued classic back to life, giving longtime players fresh content and newcomers a reason to discover Guild Wars. Its new dungeon and skill-drafting system may add variety while renewed support recognises the community that has kept the game going.
The case against
A major paid update after such a long gap may disappoint players if its content or ongoing support falls short of expectations. With ArenaNet also supporting Reforged and Guild Wars 2 and developing Guild Wars 3, players may reasonably question whether this investment can be sustained and whether the price offers enough value.
Explained simply
Guild Wars is an online role-playing game first released in 2005 by ArenaNet. Players create characters, learn combat skills and explore a fantasy world, either alone or alongside other players. It is separate from its sequel, Guild Wars 2, which has been ArenaNet’s main focus in recent years.
The original game’s last major expansion, Eye of the North, came out in 2007. ArenaNet is the studio behind the series, while 2Weeks is co-developing the new release. The renewed attention to the older game sits alongside ongoing support for Guild Wars Reforged and Guild Wars 2, as well as plans for Guild Wars 3.
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