Getting a Head Start
The long wait is finally over! Guild Wars 2 launched on August 28th, 2012, following a three-day head start period for pre-purchasers who had bought the game outright months in advance. Anticipation was thick in the air as players eagerly dove into the vibrant world of Tyria, marking a new chapter in the beloved MMORPG franchise. I got my first character created within the first couple of minutes from the servers going live—an immortal 250-year-old Godrik Gandolfi who, in my headcanon, had lived on from the original game because the goddess Kormir owed him a favour. I had rehearsed the character creation several times in the beta tests, so I knew precisely which options I wanted.
The head start, beginning on August 25th, saw a dedicated player base dive in early, exploring the starting zones and getting a taste of the game's unique combat and dynamic events. Pre-orderers (who did not pay for the game until just before launch) joined a day later, further swelling the ranks of adventurers.
Launch day itself saw a massive influx of players eager to experience the dynamic events and cooperative gameplay Guild Wars 2 promised. Servers strained under the weight of the enthusiastic crowd, causing login queues and occasional hiccups. However, the developers at ArenaNet worked tirelessly to address these issues, ensuring a smooth experience for the majority.
Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. Players praised the game's breathtaking visuals, the innovative quest system focused on cooperation over competition and the dynamic events that brought the world to life. The combat system, emphasising dodging and positioning, offered a refreshing change from traditional MMO combat. While a few technical hiccups were inevitable with such a significant launch, Guild Wars 2's debut was a resounding success. The massive influx of players showcased the immense hype surrounding the title and its potential to redefine the MMORPG genre. With a vibrant world to explore, innovative mechanics, and a focus on player cooperation, Guild Wars 2 had planted its flag firmly in the gaming landscape, ready to embark on a long and successful journey.
