ArenaNet
ArenaNet business and news from across the web.
Latest coverage
"20 players is the sweet spot": Guild Wars 3's action game combat is a first for MMOs, but it doesn't work at traditional raid scale
ArenaNet is developing Guild Wars 3 with a focus on action game-like combat and fluid movement, drawing inspiration from titles like Prince of Persia and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This approach shifts away from traditional MMO raid scales, aiming for a 'sweet spot' of around 20 players for optimal combat experience. The developers are also incorporating lessons from live service games to make the MMO more approachable.
MMO Week in Review: Joy of movement
This week's MMO news roundup covers a preview of Guild Wars 3's combat and movement, with ArenaNet's Colin Johanson taking on the game's direction. Other news includes Xbox's cloud gaming plans, Aion 2 lacking an Oceania server, Elder Scrolls Online's roadmap, and rumors of a StarCraft successor from Nexon and Blizzard.
Guild Wars 3 wants to solve every MMO's biggest problem, and might actually pull it off: "No subscription fee…
ArenaNet is aiming to solve the biggest challenge in the MMO space with Guild Wars 3: making the genre more accessible and less like a 'second job.' Studio head Colin Johanson discussed how the game will focus on approachability and depth without a subscription fee, allowing players to engage meaningfully in shorter play sessions and return after breaks without falling behind. This focus on player time and a less demanding relationship with the game aims to attract both veteran MMO players and a new generation.
With wall-running and surprisingly weighty combat, Guild Wars 3 is aiming high: "If we hadn't been making MMOs for 26 years I don't think we could have built this"
Guild Wars 3 is aiming for a more visceral, action-RPG-like combat experience with a new momentum system that allows for wall-running and impactful attacks. Developer ArenaNet is focusing on making the MMO accessible for both new and returning players, with a launch planned for PlayStation 5 and PC.
Guild Wars 3 is a lot smaller scale than Guild Wars 2 because of the new approach to combat and movement: 'You would probably see about 20 players in a large combat scenario'
ArenaNet's Guild Wars 3 will feature a significantly smaller player scale in combat scenarios, capping at around 20 players, compared to Guild Wars 2's large-scale battles. This decision is driven by the new high-fidelity combat and movement systems, which are designed to be more readable and visceral. While cities will remain busy social hubs, the open world will focus on more intimate, meaningful player interactions.
Guild Wars 3's devs think they've found an answer to one of MMOs' biggest problems, but can ArenaNet pull it off?
ArenaNet is developing Guild Wars 3 with a focus on dynamic momentum-based movement and combat, aiming to break away from traditional MMORPG design. Studio lead Colin Johanson and combat lead Kevin Stocker demonstrated how chaining traversal and combat actions creates a more fluid, action-RPG-like experience, contrasting it with the static nature of many MMOs. The game will also feature more defined player roles and cooperative multiplayer combos.
Flameseeker Chronicles: A first look at combat and the joy of movement in Guild Wars 3
ArenaNet provided a first look at Guild Wars 3, focusing on its fluid movement and kinetic combat systems, which aim to innovate within the MMORPG genre. Director Colin Johanson highlighted features like momentum conservation and environmental interactions in combat, while also acknowledging concerns regarding UI minimalism and potential combat simplification.
ArenaNet says Guild Wars 3 will make you "fall in love with MMOs." Here's why I think it could
ArenaNet aims to revitalize the MMO genre with Guild Wars 3, focusing on innovative 'Momentum' systems that allow for fluid movement and dynamic combat. Studio head Colin Johansen believes the game will attract both existing Guild Wars fans and new players seeking a fresh experience, potentially making them 'fall in love with MMOs.' The design prioritizes a cleaner UI and more action-oriented gameplay, a departure from traditional MMO mechanics.
Guild Wars 3 is embracing more freedom of movement
ArenaNet is reimagining movement mechanics for Guild Wars 3, aiming to bring console-like freedom to the MMORPG genre. The game will feature wall running, mantling, sliding, and a new momentum system that seamlessly transitions between actions like running, mounting, and gliding. These innovations are intended to make Guild Wars 3 a more accessible entry point for both new and returning players on PC and PlayStation 5.
MMOs Have “Stagnated,” Guild Wars 3 Studio Head Says
ArenaNet studio head Colin Johanson believes the MMO genre has stagnated, with many players still engaging with games over a decade old. He aims for Guild Wars 3 to introduce "wild, crazy ideas" to revitalize the genre by addressing approachability and respecting players' time, offering a less demanding experience than traditional MMOs.
Guild Wars 3 Plays Unlike Any Other MMO, And That’s A Good Thing
Guild Wars 3 is set to redefine the MMORPG genre with its unique, fluid combat and traversal systems, moving away from traditional action bars and tab-targeting. Developed by ArenaNet, the game emphasizes momentum-based movement and environmental interaction, aiming to provide an equally engaging experience on both PC and PlayStation 5 with controller support.
Guild Wars 3's approach to combat and movement is like nothing I've ever seen in an MMO before: 'One of our big goals when we make a new game in the Guild Wars franchise is to set out and try new things'
ArenaNet's Guild Wars 3 aims to innovate within the MMORPG genre with a focus on dynamic movement and visceral action combat. The game, set 1,000 years before Guild Wars 2 in the land of Orr, introduces mechanics like wall running, mantling, and seamless transitions between gliding and combat, all powered by a momentum system. This approach aims to create a fluid experience distinct from traditional MMOs, with developers Colin Johanson and Kevin Stocker highlighting how movement directly impacts combat effectiveness.
Massively OP Podcast Episode 578: Gamescoming and Gamesgoing
The Massively OP Podcast episode 578 covers Gamescom announcements, including launch dates for Aion 2 and Path of Exile 2, and future content plans for Dune: Awakening. The hosts also discuss the shutdown of another WoW Classic server, Guild Wars 3's Asura, Star Citizen's delays, and Star Wars Galaxies hacking drama.
Guild Wars 3 collects concept artwork and lore details of its three revealed species in one video
ArenaNet has released a new video for Guild Wars 3, showcasing concept art and lore details for its revealed species: Humans, Kodan, and Asura. The video offers glimpses into their potential customization and general aesthetic, though the game's beta is not expected until fall 2027 and a fourth mystery species remains unrevealed.
Guild Wars 2 shares a sizzle reel for Code of Creation’s new raid and convergence rewards
ArenaNet has released a sizzle reel previewing the upcoming Code of Creation update for Guild Wars 2, which includes a new raid and convergence rewards. The update, set to wrap up the Visions of Eternity storyline on September 15th, features new boss encounters and visually striking, necrotic-themed weapons.
Guild Wars 3’s Asura are taller and furrier than their Guild Wars 2 descendants – but just as quirky
ArenaNet has revealed new details about the Asura species in Guild Wars 3, showcasing a taller, furrier appearance compared to their Guild Wars 2 counterparts. Senior narrative designer Liz Baker explained that this change reflects the Asura's more balanced relationship with the surface world in the new game's timeline, over a millennium before Guild Wars 2. The studio also teased upcoming reveals for other species and lore elements.
Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 report - all the news and announcements as Witcher 3 expansion Songs of the Past shown for first time
Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026, hosted by Geoff Keighley, showcased new game announcements and updates. Highlights included the first look at The Witcher 3 expansion Songs of the Past, footage of Warlock, and a glimpse at the final Final Fantasy 7 Remake installment. Potential reveals for Alien: Isolation 2, Guild Wars 3, and Diablo 4 on Nintendo Switch 2 were also speculated, alongside release date confirmations for titles like The Duskbloods.
The Daily Grind: What content do players of your favorite MMO sleep on?
This article discusses overlooked content within MMORPGs, specifically highlighting Guild Wars 2's Living World Seasons. Players are encouraged to engage with these often-skipped content updates, which offer valuable story, maps, and farming opportunities.
The people of video games on what gives them cause for hope
Industry professionals share their reasons for optimism despite current challenges, highlighting the resilience of game developers, the innovation within the indie scene, the growing cultural impact of games, and the enduring passion of players. They emphasize community support, creative freedom, and the potential for new ideas to emerge from difficult times, suggesting a bright future for the medium.
The oldest Guild Wars 2 characters are turning 14 years old this week with all the concomitant birthday gifts
Guild Wars 2 is celebrating its 14th anniversary this week, with players receiving in-game birthday gifts for their characters. The earliest characters were created on August 25, 2012, with some players able to claim rewards as early as August 23rd. The anniversary gifts include boosters, teleports, karma, spirit shards, and various weapon and wardrobe unlocks.
