Guild Wars developer ArenaNet announces Guild Wars Reforged, an updated version of the original game with improved visuals and experience. Read on to learn more about the updates, release date, and what this means for both new and returning players.
Guild Wars Reforged Updates the Classic MMO
The Classic 2005 MMO Returns for a New Generation
Guild Wars Reforged plans to bring the classic MMORPG into the modern day. Revealed on November 18, 2025, via the Guild Wars 2 official website, the update is scheduled for December 3, 2025. ArenaNet plans free improvements, focused on refinements and quality-of-life updates coming soon, aimed at enhancing the experience for longtime fans while making it easier for newcomers to explore the world of Tyria.
Originally launched in 2005, Guild Wars is a free-to-play MMORPG with a campaign-based structure and no subscription fee. While the game remains popular among a dedicated fanbase, some aspects of its interface may feel dated to new players. For example, the original Options panel includes an "Interface" tab, but most UI adjustments are tied to fixed-size presets rather than fully scalable elements, which can make navigation less intuitive.
Improving Accessibility for New and Returning Players
As an update focusing on modernizing the experience, several features will be revamped and improved. Firstly, the user interface will include larger text options, improved navigation, a new quest-tracking system, and an on-screen control guide. It will also support high-DPI displays and the Steam Deck, with modern controller compatibility. Audio and visual updates refresh the world without changing core gameplay.
Guild Wars Reforged will also feature a low-priced bundle including the Prophecies, Factions, and Nightfall campaigns. Players who already own one campaign will automatically unlock the others. The game will continue to have no subscription fee, keeping it accessible for all players.
By updating the interface, visuals, and accessibility while preserving core gameplay, Guild Wars Reforged aims to make the game approachable for newcomers while improving convenience and immersion for veterans, bridging the gap between the original 2005 experience and modern gaming standards.
To develop Guild Wars Reforged, ArenaNet partnered with 2weeks, a studio of former ArenaNet developers. The teams plan ongoing improvements rather than a one-off update. "These updates will take effect for all players—the new Reforged edition does not contain exclusive content, but it simplifies the choice of what to purchase for new players. And Guild Wars Reforged isn’t about a one-time update; we plan to keep collaborating with our partners at 2weeks to make further improvements to the game in the future!" the ArenaNet team said.
Guild Wars is available for purchase on Steam and the game's official website.
Sources:
Guild Wars Reforged Official Website
Guild Wars Reforged Announcement Post
Guild Wars Reforged Announcement Video
