Guild Wars 2
Preview
250 years later, in the land of Tyria
by Ryan Cope
previewed on PC
250 Years Later... (cntd)
The Sylvari are a strange plant-like species, bred from the Pale Tree. They are the youngest race and one that is looking for its place in the world. Often, the Sylvari will get their right and wrongs mixed up due to their youth and unknown purpose. The Asura are tiny but extremely intelligent, once living under the surface of Tyria, they now aim to rule the above world. Their magical skills allow them to build an army of golems that fight beside them, protecting their home and crushing their enemies. Lastly, the Norn are a tall shape-shifting species from the frozen north-lands. Their shape-changing abilities allow them to transform into powerful beasts with deadly abilities. These forms include bears, snow leopards, ravens and wolves.
How Will You Play Your Story?
Choosing one of five races and creating your character is only the beginning for players in Guild Wars 2. As you progress you will create your own personal story in the world of Tyria, where your actions will have consequences. ArenaNet is building upon the successful Guild Wars system, bringing back the features fans loved from the original and improving on the disliked qualities. The legendary player vs. player, strong competitive play, anti-grind design system, powerful narrative and no-subscription fee from the first will all return for the second.
Guild Wars 2 moves players away from the endlessly boring level grinding seen in most MMOs. ArenaNet haven’t said much about the actual levelling system itself, but have stated that: “Guild Wars 2 will have the kind of extensive character advancement appropriate to a persistent-world RPG.” It will also allow friends of all levels to play with or against each other. Guild Wars 2 will use an effective sidekick system, similar to the one used in City of Heroes, which will allow low-level friends to play with higher levels without suffering the wrath of unstoppable enemies. The player vs. player system will organize all players to be at the same level and have access to a neutral set of equipment. This will allow for fairer and more enjoyable gameplay.
Gamers who prefer to play alone will be glad to know that Guild Wars 2 allows for solo gameplay. However, they do encourage collaboration meaning that some missions can only be completed with a group. Fans of the original may be unhappy to learn that you cannot carry over your character from the original Guild Wars, due to the time difference in story. However, you can transfer your previous character’s name over to your new one. There will also be a place called the Hall of Monuments, where you can find the achievements of your previous Guild Wars character and even receive rewards.
Will You Join The Battle?
So, if you’re a Guild Wars fan are you going to take up arms again and fight against the dragon army? Or, if you’re new to the franchise are you thinking about fighting to defend the beloved land of Tyria? Whoever you are and whatever your choice, Guild Wars 2 surely looks to be an impressive experience where players can immerse themselves in a wonderfully constructed world, a beautiful story and deeply structured characters. It looks like there will be countless hours to spend fighting evil and defending your virtual home.
