Guild Wars 3 is Coming: What We Know So Far About This Epic MMORPG

Can you believe it? ArenaNet is officially working on Guild Wars 3! While many live-service games seem to be in it for the long haul, Guild Wars 2 is making space for its successor, just like the original Guild Wars did. The good news is that ArenaNet is committed to keeping GW2 alive even after GW3’s launch. I’ve gathered all the juicy details about Guild Wars 3 ahead of its first beta tests expected in 2027.

When can we expect Guild Wars 3?
The first beta test for Guild Wars 3 is slated to kick off in the fall of 2027, but we haven’t yet seen a set release date. For context, the early closed beta for Guild Wars 2 began just under a year before its launch. While it’s uncertain if GW3 will follow a similar timeline, ArenaNet has mentioned plans for improvements to GW2 over the next 18 months. This could mean we might see GW3 launched around December 2027, shortly after the beta tests start. One thing’s for sure, ArenaNet is not dragging its feet on this one!

Platforms for Guild Wars 3
For the first time in the franchise, Guild Wars 3 will be available on both PC and PlayStation 5! This exciting new development means that players can expect action-RPG combat and controls that are friendly for both gamepad users and those who prefer a keyboard and mouse setup. As someone who loves using a controller for PC gaming, I can’t wait to see how this pans out.

Will there be a subscription fee?
Good news for players! The Guild Wars series has always been about a buy-to-play model, and ArenaNet has confirmed that this trend will continue with GW3. There won’t be any monthly subscriptions or battle passes either, as studio head Colin Johanson noted that players are pretty fed up with those.

Teasers and trailers
The reveal trailer for Guild Wars 3 really captures the “joy of movement” vibe that ArenaNet has been promoting. We see characters riding mounts and wall-running, showcasing a vibrant world filled with stunning visuals and a new logo that features intricate fabric and embroidery designs. There’s definitely a lot of flag imagery in play!

The setting and storyline
Set 1,200 years before the events of the original Guild Wars, GW3 will take us to Orr—a vast wilderness brimming with magic. Players will step into the shoes of a Vaelwarden, part of an adventurer’s guild dedicated to protecting magical entities known as Vael spirits, while dealing with conflicts over how to protect or exploit them. Sounds like classic guild rivalry is back!

How’s combat going to be different?
ArenaNet aims to redefine the MMORPG experience with Guild Wars 3 by focusing on an “action-adventure” combat system. They’re emphasizing a unique movement mechanic that allows players to fluidly glide, ride, jump, and wall-run. This means players can build speed and convert it into devastating damage against enemies. Unlike many MMOs that rely on simple cooldowns, GW3 will incorporate strategic skill use, positioning, and movement—definitely a fresh take!

Playable races in GW3
While specific details on playable races and classes are still under wraps, early concept art hints that we’ll have options like:
– Humans: The classic choice every RPG has.
– Asura: The clever little beings first introduced in GW2.
– Kodan: The big, bear-like characters making their debut in this series.

What’s next for Guild Wars 2?
Following the announcement of GW3, ArenaNet has reassured fans that GW2 has a future too. They’ve outlined plans for quality-of-life updates for GW2 before GW3’s release, with a focus on polishing older content and introducing new features. Expect a revamped World versus World map and a new zone in Orr that connects the current world of Tyria to the exciting new realms we’ll explore in GW3.

In summary, Guild Wars 3 is shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the MMORPG world, and we’re all eagerly waiting to dive in!