Understanding the Level-80 Boost in Guild Wars 2: A Comprehensive Guide
The Level-80 Boost is a powerful item in Guild Wars 2, designed to instantly elevate a character to the maximum level of 80. It’s primarily included as a bonus when purchasing Guild Wars 2 expansions. The boost isn’t just a level jump; it’s a package deal. Alongside reaching max level, it comes with a set of useful gear and a shared inventory slot. What makes the Level-80 Boost unique is its dual-phase functionality. Initially, it’s a preview mode, allowing players to experiment with max-level gameplay before permanently applying the boost to a specific character. This means you can experience a class’s capabilities at level 80 before committing to using the boost on a particular character. Once you are ready to commit to a specific character, you can choose to consume the item, applying all the effects, including that character achieving Level 80.
Previewing Max-Level Gameplay
One of the most appealing features of the Level-80 Boost is its preview functionality. When first using the item, you aren’t immediately locked into applying it. Instead, you can select any character and temporarily boost them to level 80. This allows you to get a feel for how the profession plays at max level, try out different builds, and test out the different skills and abilities associated with max-level gameplay. This is especially beneficial for new players who might be unsure which profession to choose or for those considering a class change, who want to sample the experience first.
Flexibility for Character Exploration
The boost provides an incredible way to explore Guild Wars 2’s diverse range of professions without the need to dedicate hours to leveling each character individually. You can use the preview on multiple characters to quickly try out each of the nine core professions to find the one you enjoy the most. This experimentation helps players make an informed decision before committing to the boost on their main character.
Consuming the Level-80 Boost
Once you’ve decided which character you want to main and are ready to fully commit, you consume the Level-80 Boost item. This permanently sets your chosen character to level 80, equipping them with appropriate gear and granting them access to all the content designed for max-level characters. The free shared inventory slot is extremely handy, allowing you to transfer items between characters easily.
Should You Use the Level-80 Boost?
The question of whether or not to use the Level-80 Boost is a common one among new players. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best approach depends on your individual playstyle and preferences.
When Boosting is a Good Idea
- Sandbox Players: If you prefer a sandbox-style game where the end-game content is the main focus, the boost allows you to dive right into activities like raids, fractals, and world bosses. This can make the game much more engaging for players who enjoy the more complex challenges that come with max level content.
- Experienced MMO Players: For players who have experience with other MMOs and are comfortable with character progression, the boost can be a time-saver, allowing you to skip the initial grind. You’re likely more familiar with the core mechanics of MMORPG’s and can adjust to your new level and abilities with greater ease.
- Alt-aholics: Players who enjoy creating multiple characters might find the boost allows them to explore the different professions in Guild Wars 2 more quickly and without the long level up process.
When Leveling Manually Might Be Better
- New Players: If you are entirely new to Guild Wars 2 and the MMORPG genre, experiencing the game’s leveling experience may be crucial to understanding the mechanics and lore. The process of leveling allows for a gradual introduction to skills and systems.
- Story Enthusiasts: The personal story in Guild Wars 2 is a core element, and going through the leveling process allows you to engage with the lore at your own pace and truly see your character’s growth. The world is so rich and vibrant that it would be a shame to skip parts of it.
- Those who are still not sure what their favorite profession is: As it is impossible to refund the Level-80 Boost if you consume it, it’s a better idea to explore the different classes through leveling them until you are sure which character you want to max.
FAQs About the Level-80 Boost
1. What items come with the Level-80 Boost?
The Level-80 Boost comes with a set of level-appropriate exotic gear, a shared inventory slot, and a temporary level-80 preview mode.
2. Can I use the Level-80 Boost on multiple characters?
You can only use the boost to permanently level one character to 80. However, you can use the preview mode on multiple characters to test them out before deciding which one to boost.
3. What happens to my character’s existing gear if I use the boost?
The level-80 boost will provide your character with a full set of exotic gear, overwriting your previously equipped gear. That being said, the boost doesn’t delete your old gear so you can use it or sell it.
4. Where is the Level-80 Mentor located?
The Level-80 Mentor, Quartermaster Criswell, can be found at Camp Resolve in The Silverwastes. He helps players who have recently used the Level-80 Boost.
5. Does the boost give me elite specializations?
No, the Level-80 Boost will not automatically grant you elite specializations. You’ll need to unlock them separately with hero points after reaching level 80.
6. What is the level cap in Guild Wars 2?
The level cap in Guild Wars 2 is 80.
7. What should I do after using the Level-80 Boost?
After boosting to level 80, you should focus on obtaining your elite specializations, exploring high-level maps, completing dungeons and fractals, and partaking in end-game meta events.
8. Do dungeons scale to level in Guild Wars 2?
Dungeons do not scale characters of lower levels to the dungeon’s required level. However, some content like Fractals of the Mists scales lower-level players up to level 80.
9. How does the level scaling work in Guild Wars 2?
Guild Wars 2 uses a level scaling system, which adjusts your character’s power in different zones. Characters are scaled down to the appropriate level in lower-level areas, and scaled up to 80 in some content like PvP.
10. What are some good starting activities after the boost?
A good first activity to do after using the level boost is to do daily achievements and daily fractals. You also might consider crafting and selling ascended materials.
11. Can I undo the Level-80 Boost if I don’t like it?
Once you consume the Level-80 Boost, it cannot be undone. So make sure you use the preview mode to its fullest before making a final decision.
12. What are hero points, and why are they important?
Hero points are used to unlock elite specializations and are necessary to maximize your character’s abilities at level 80. You will need 250 per spec.
13. Is the Level-80 Boost included with the free version of Guild Wars 2?
The Level-80 Boost is usually a bonus included when purchasing Guild Wars 2 expansions and is not included with the free-to-play version.
14. Is it better to level manually or use the Level-80 Boost?
Whether to level manually or use the boost depends on your personal preference. New players might benefit from the gradual leveling process, while experienced players and alt-aholics might prefer the time-saving aspect of the boost.
15. What professions are considered beginner-friendly?
For casual PvE gameplay, Rangers are often considered among the easiest due to their strong pets and good survivability. Elementalist is also a good option with multiple builds that can be effective and fun to play.
Conclusion
The Level-80 Boost in Guild Wars 2 is a valuable tool that gives players the option to immediately experience the end-game content and explore the professions at the highest level before committing to a specific choice. Understanding its preview functionality, the items it provides, and its limitations is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Whether you choose to boost or level manually, the important thing is to enjoy the rich and expansive world of Guild Wars 2.