Top 5 Features Players Hope to See in the Next Guild Wars 2 Expansion
Guild Wars 2 has remained a staple in the MMORPG genre for over a decade, continuously evolving with new expansions and updates. With whispers of the next big expansion, players are eagerly discussing what features could take the game to the next level. While ArenaNet has kept details under wraps, the community has been vocal about their most desired features. Here are the top five features players are hoping to see in the upcoming Guild Wars 2 expansion.
New Playable Races to Expand Tyria’s Diversity
One of the most requested features in the Guild Wars 2 Expansion is the introduction of new playable races. While Guild Wars 2 boasts an incredible selection of Humans, Norn, Charr, Asura, and Sylvari, fans have long wanted more diversity.
Possible candidates include:
Tengu: These bird-like warriors have long been part of the game’s lore, and players have been clamoring for their inclusion since launch.
Kodans: The noble bear-folk would bring a fascinating perspective on Tyria’s ongoing conflicts.
Largos: The elusive underwater assassins could add new depth to underwater exploration (which many hope will also receive improvements).
Expanding the playable races would breathe fresh life into character creation, lore, and storytelling.
- A New Elite Specialization System
Elite specializations have been a defining feature of past expansions, giving each profession fresh ways to play. However, some players feel that the current system is becoming repetitive and limited. A revamped elite specialization system could introduce:
Multi-classing Elements: Allowing limited crossover skills between professions.
Deeper Customization: A talent tree-style system that lets players mix and match abilities within their elite spec.
Weapon Variability: Expanding weapons available to each class, such as allowing Elementalists to wield greatswords or Mesmers to use bows.
By refining elite specializations, ArenaNet could revitalize gameplay and encourage new playstyles.
- Player Housing and Customization
Housing has been a long-requested feature in Guild Wars 2, with many pointing to how successful it has been in other MMORPGs like Final Fantasy XIV and Elder Scrolls Online. While the home instance currently exists, it lacks the depth and customization that players crave.
A true player housing system could include:
Buildable and Customizable Homes: Let players decorate their homes with furniture, trophies, and interactive items.
Guild Housing: Expanding the feature to guilds would foster a stronger community experience.
Achievements & Rewards: Earning housing decorations through world events, raids, or crafting.
With a vibrant world like Tyria, having a personal space to express creativity would be a game-changer.
- An Overhaul of the Underwater Combat System
Underwater combat has been a divisive aspect of Guild Wars 2. While the game introduced an innovative approach to underwater weapons and skills, the system has largely been neglected since launch. The next expansion could finally give it the attention it deserves.
Potential improvements include:
New Underwater Elite Specializations: Making underwater combat as engaging as land combat.
Revamped Enemy AI: Enhancing underwater encounters to be more dynamic and challenging.
Underwater Mounts: Introducing aquatic mounts like a rideable Megalodon or Manta Ray.
By making underwater gameplay smoother and more engaging, ArenaNet could unlock a whole new realm of exploration.
- A Revamped World vs. World (WvW) System
World vs. World has long been a defining PvP mode in Guild Wars 2, but many feel that it has become stagnant. While past updates have attempted to improve balance, a major overhaul is needed to reinvigorate this large-scale conflict mode.
Suggested improvements include:
Faction-Based Alliances: Allowing guilds to align with different factions for strategic battles.
Siege Weapon Innovations: New, interactive siege mechanics for deeper tactical gameplay.
Meaningful Rewards: Better incentives for participation, such as exclusive skins, titles, and ascended gear.
A robust WvW revamp could reignite competition and bring back veteran players.
Final Thoughts
With Guild Wars 2’s next expansion on the horizon, there’s no shortage of exciting possibilities. These features could redefine the game’s future, whether it’s new playable races, refined elite specializations, long-awaited player housing, improved underwater combat, or a WvW overhaul.
Area net has a golden opportunity to address community feedback and push the boundaries of what Guild Wars 2 can be. While we wait for official announcements, one thing is certain—the players are ready for the next great adventure in Tyria.
What features do you hope to see in the next Guild Wars 2 expansion? Let us know in the comments!
