How Long to Beat Guild Wars 2? A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re thinking about diving into the world of Tyria but wondering, “How long will this adventure take?” The answer, like many things in the vast world of Guild Wars 2 (GW2), is multifaceted. For a focused playthrough concentrated on the main story objectives, you can expect to spend around 83 hours. However, if you’re like many gamers who yearn to explore every nook and cranny, achieve 100% completion, and experience everything GW2 has to offer, you’re looking at a journey that can extend to around 1877 hours. This immense range is one of the game’s strengths, catering to both players who prefer a straightforward narrative and those who enjoy in-depth exploration.
What Impacts Your Guild Wars 2 Playtime?
The wide disparity in playtime comes from the sheer variety of content available in Guild Wars 2. Several factors can dramatically alter how long it takes you to “beat” the game:
- Focus on the Main Story: If your primary goal is to experience the central narrative, you will likely complete the game within the 80-100 hour range.
- Exploration and Completion: For players aiming for 100% map completion, collecting all achievements, and experiencing all the game’s diverse content, you can easily spend over 1800 hours in Tyria.
- Leveling Speed: While the level cap is 80, some players prefer to thoroughly explore the world while leveling, leading to a longer journey. Others might utilize boosts to speed up their progression. The time it takes to reach level 80 can vary, but expect around 50 hours for a first character if you’re taking your time, perhaps closer to 80-100 hours if you’re exploring at a casual pace.
- Endgame Activities: Guild Wars 2 has a robust endgame, including fractals, raids, and more, which can add countless additional hours to your playtime.
- Personal Preferences: Your individual playstyle will heavily influence your playtime. Some players enjoy a relaxed experience, while others are completionists.
Guild Wars 2: Beyond the Main Story
It’s crucial to understand that ‘beating’ Guild Wars 2 is more of a personal journey than a singular objective. The game encourages exploration, character building, and ongoing engagement. Here are a few things that will keep you busy long after the main story concludes:
- Living World Seasons: These episodic releases expand the lore and add new playable content, making GW2 a constantly evolving experience.
- Elite Specializations: Unlocking and mastering new elite specializations for each profession provides fresh gameplay experiences.
- Masteries: The mastery system allows you to earn permanent account-wide enhancements, encouraging continuous play.
- Mounts: The game features some of the best mounts in the MMO genre, with unique abilities and exploration uses.
- World vs. World (WvW): Participate in large-scale battles, and contribute to your world’s efforts.
- Player vs Player (PvP): Test your skills in structured and casual PvP matches.
Is There An End to the Story?
While expansions like End of Dragons might sound like an ending, the game developers have stated that they are planning more frequent, smaller expansions instead of large ones, and will be continuing to add content. So, there is currently no planned ‘end’ to the Guild Wars 2 storyline or game development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Guild Wars 2 still active in 2023?
Yes! Guild Wars 2 boasts a vibrant community. As of October 2023, estimates show around 358,270 players logging in daily.
2. What is the maximum level in Guild Wars 2?
The maximum level is 80. Characters scale down in lower-level zones and scale up in PvP.
3. How many years after Guild Wars 1 does Guild Wars 2 take place?
Guild Wars 2 is set 250 years after the events of Guild Wars 1.
4. Is Guild Wars 2 worth my time?
Many players consider GW2 to be a great MMO, with an engaging community, unique combat, and an evolving story. It’s also considered less grindy than some other MMOs.
5. Is Guild Wars 2 playable solo?
Yes, the story can be played solo, however, some endgame content like raids usually require a guild. You can find groups for Fractals and other activities.
6. How long does it take to get to max level (80) in Guild Wars 2?
Reaching level 80 can take around 50-100 hours, depending on your playstyle and if you explore a lot.
7. What are the best beginner classes in Guild Wars 2?
Guardian, Ranger, and Necromancer are often recommended for beginners due to their forgiving playstyles.
8. Is there a level 80 boost in Guild Wars 2?
Yes, you receive a level 80 boost with the purchase of expansions and can also buy them separately in the Gem Store.
9. How long does it take to achieve 100% map completion in Guild Wars 2?
Achieving full map completion usually takes around 12-15 hours without rushing.
10. Is Guild Wars 2 pay-to-win?
No, GW2 is not considered pay-to-win. You pay for content and can purchase boosters to speed up progression.
11. What is the fastest way to make money in Guild Wars 2?
Crafting and selling ascended crafting materials or rare/exotic gear is a good way to earn gold.
12. What is the easiest solo class in Guild Wars 2?
The Necromancer is often considered one of the strongest and easiest classes to play solo.
13. Does race matter in Guild Wars 2?
Race determines your starting area, story quests, and how NPCs may react to you, but it doesn’t have any real effect on gameplay or builds.
14. Will Guild Wars 2 get another expansion?
Yes, developers plan to release smaller expansions more frequently with quarterly content updates.
15. What is the highest DPS class in Guild Wars 2?
Thief is currently considered the highest DPS class, with Ranger coming in second.
Conclusion
Guild Wars 2 offers a flexible experience. Whether you’re aiming for the main storyline or aspire to explore every corner of Tyria, you’ll find the game caters to a wide range of playstyles. Remember, “beating” Guild Wars 2 can mean something different to each player. The game offers endless content, so your time is dictated by how much you want to explore and what goals you want to achieve.