ArenaNet has announced an exciting revitalization of its classic MMORPG, Guild Wars, in honor of the game’s 20th anniversary. The new title, Guild Wars Reforged, will launch on December 3, and promises significant enhancements to both visuals and gameplay. This updated version is being co-developed with the newly established studio, 2weeks, which includes former ArenaNet developers.
Key Features of Guild Wars Reforged
Guild Wars Reforged aims to modernize the original experience while retaining its charm. Here are the standout features:
- A free update for existing Guild Wars players, including free upgrades to expansions.
- A new price point of $20 for newcomers, making it more accessible.
- An HD visual overhaul that improves resolution, ambient occlusion, and bloom effects.
- Official controller support via X-Input.
- Accessibility options to enhance gameplay, including an optional objective guide for navigation.
- Steam Deck verified, ensuring optimal performance on portable devices.
Historical Context and Development
The original Guild Wars was released in 2005, amidst a surge of MMORPGs following the success of World of Warcraft. Its unique no-subscription model attracted a dedicated player base, offering a free-form exploration experience. The Reforged edition started development in early 2025, benefitting from the developers’ extensive knowledge of both Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2.
Brandon Dillon, CEO of 2weeks, expressed excitement about returning to the franchise. “ArenaNet’s strong engineering culture has preserved the game’s code base,” he noted, facilitating a smooth development process. The Reforged edition addresses several technical issues identified during the original game’s anniversary event, particularly ensuring compatibility with 4K displays.
A Nod to Modern Gamers
One of the primary goals of Guild Wars Reforged is to improve the experience for players using modern systems, especially for Steam Deck users. The original game’s user interface posed challenges on high-resolution displays. “We focused on modernizing the user experience while respecting the game’s original aesthetic,” Dillon explained.
The development team is enthusiastic about the renewed interest in classic games. By updating Guild Wars, they aim to rekindle nostalgia while introducing the game to new audiences. “Revisiting Guild Wars has allowed us to appreciate the incredible talent involved in its creation,” Dillon reflected.
As the launch date approaches, the anticipation for Guild Wars Reforged grows. This enhanced version aims to offer a revitalized experience that honors the original while embracing modern gaming standards.
