The fantasy MMORPG Guild Wars 2 discusses raids, design ideas, and fundamental advantages over other MMORPGs.
In conversation with the Associate Game Director
With the expansion Heart of Thorns, raids were added to the world of Guild Wars 2. While this has been a norm for other games for decades, it is an absolute novelty for Guild Wars 2. The colleagues at massivelyop.com had the opportunity to talk extensively with Associate Game Director Steven Waller about the goals and templates of the new group activities.
Developers also play many games
When asked about the developers’ inspiration for their own raids, a detailed answer was given. “Normally, we look for something that fits well within the background story of the game world, so that players can feel even more connected to the world of Guild Wars 2.” This is understandable, as ArenaNet’s MMO is one of the few where nearly every NPC has its own small story. Lore has always been significant, and this does not change with the raids.
“In terms of individual encounters, well, we have a lot of people who love to raid in other games. (…) Basically, we know the mechanics of other games, but Guild Wars 2 is unique in this regard. Especially because we have a very action-oriented combat system. (…) Such as the ability to actively evade and heal oneself.”
No Holy Trinity, but coordination is still important
Finally, Waller was asked to say a bit about the different roles in combat since there is no principle of Holy Trinity (Tank, Healer, DD) in Guild Wars 2.
“Of course, someone can also draw the boss’s threat to themselves here, but that is not tied to a specific class. It rather depends on how much toughness you have on your equipment, so basically any class can do that. (…) The same goes for the other classes and tasks. We do not want to force anyone in a specific direction. What the players decide and how they want to approach it is entirely in their hands.“
Raids remain exciting even after the first kill
Since Guild Wars 2 completely avoids the typical item spiral, it is not surprising that the raw power level of players hardly increases, if at all. Almost all improvements in the endgame come solely from the actual skill of the player, that is, the mastery of their own class. “There is no ninja-looting in our game, no endless grinding for certain gear, and defeating a boss does not make it noticeably easier the next time you face it.”
Certainly, a kind of routine will develop among the raid groups over time, but this cannot be circumvented – as in many other games – through endless improvements to gear.
For more information about the game and the current patches, you can visit our Guild Wars 2 topic page.
