In a new developer blog, the creators of Guild Wars 2 talk in more detail about the raids. And it becomes clear: Teamwork is essential!
New Developer Insights
With Heart of Thorns, the world of Guild Wars 2 finally gets independent raids – that is, raid instances for 10 players. Although many details have been revealed in recent days, the two developers Crystal Reid and Jason Reynolds discuss the challenges and requirements that raid-oriented players will face in their blog post.
Endless Events Without Entry Barriers
As previously reported, there will essentially be no entry requirements for the raids. Anyone with a character at maximum level who finds 9 like-minded players can dive into the battles without much delay. During boss encounters, they intend to make generous use of tried-and-tested mechanics that have not yet been seen in this context in PvE.
The defense of specific points, the capture of strategic objectives, or the conquest of entire locations are just some of the possibilities that will be adapted from dynamic events. The bosses themselves cannot simply be “zerged” down; they require complex strategies, often span multiple phases, and gain new abilities during a fight that require quick reactions – all things that raiders in other games also love.
Teamwork is Everything – the Individual Must Submit
Teamwork is essential for overcoming the fights. Certain encounters may require specific builds from individual players – it might be necessary to select traits that have never been used before for a boss fight. Wearing specially tailored gear that provides significant toughness might also be necessary.
Needing specific equipment does somewhat conflict with the statement that little preparation is needed, but it remains to be seen how relevant that will actually be.
As is fitting for exciting PvE boss fights, individual players will have to take on special responsibilities in the battles. Sometimes a summoned minion must be moved away from the group, and at other times, two players must activate an object at the right moment. Missing your cue will likely result in the death of the entire group. But jokingly, there’s good news: There is an anvil for repairs at the entrance of the instance.
The Masteries and Understanding of Combat
The new masteries will also play a critical role in the raid instances. In one section of the raid, players will need to glide for an extended period to cover large distances and reach the bosses. At the same time, players should have a deeper understanding of the combat system of Guild Wars 2. Those who do not know what the combo field is or how they can manipulate it with their own abilities should perhaps conduct an intensive Google search until the expansion is released.
