Guild Wars 2: Waiting for the Date
Players of Guild Wars 2 have gotten used to the fact that there are always phases in which almost nothing happens. And right now, we are in such a phase again. Although ArenaNet regularly announces a new “quasi” class for Heart of Thorns, nothing is happening in the game itself.
For the expansion, some interesting features and plans have been announced. They want to proceed along their own path, not participating in a power creep with ever higher levels and new items, but rather distancing themselves. However, the first half of 2015 is now also almost over, and a few content tidbits while players wait for the next expansion would have been welcome. Just as a good host offers snacks at a party when stomachs are already grumbling, while the main course is still cooking. However, hardly any studio seems capable of this.
The exciting question of yesterday is the same as today, and probably will be tomorrow: Can ArenaNet fulfill the wish to develop Guild Wars 2 into an eSports game? They have planned a new PvP mode that should be better suited for viewing. They want to continue with tournaments. They are revising WvW. They are pushing many chips and resources in that direction. Anyone who has sympathy for Guild Wars 2 must keep their fingers crossed: Hopefully, it pays off for GW2; the first reactions have been rather lukewarm.
And whether this strategic direction will succeed could determine the long-term future of Guild Wars 2.
The medium-term future of Guild Wars 2 lies elsewhere: A date for Heart of Thorns would be due soon. If all your doing and making is tied to the expansion and the future, it quickly creates the impression: We are currently living in the past. And when will this future, which everyone keeps talking about, finally begin?
