Guild Wars Reforged Launches, Celebrating 20 Years of MMORPG Legacy

Seattle, WA – As the 20th anniversary of the acclaimed MMORPG approaches, developer ArenaNet has announced a substantial visual and gameplay overhaul titled Guild Wars Reforged. This revamped edition of the 2005 classic, co-developed with the new studio 2weeks, is set to modernize the game while preserving its beloved core elements.

The announcement was made during an exclusive reveal where ArenaNet’s game director Stephen Clarke-Wilson and Brandon Dillon, the CEO and co-founder of 2weeks, shared insights about the forthcoming upgrade. Guild Wars Reforged aims to enhance the original game and its expansions with a range of improvements, including an HD visual update, upgraded performance, and user interface, as well as official controller support and full optimization for the Steam Deck.

For newcomers, the price point for this complete package will be lowered to $20, while existing players will receive the update for free. Clarke-Wilson emphasized the enduring appeal of the subscription-free MMORPG, stating, “Reforged means we’ve toughened it up!” He noted the game’s ability to cater to both solo players and groups, highlighting the steady influx of new players over the last six years.

Key features of Guild Wars Reforged will include an HD visual overhaul with improved resolution and effects, enhanced accessibility options, and Steam Deck compatibility. The original Guild Wars distinguished itself from other MMORPGs by allowing a more exploratory experience without subscription fees, making it more accessible.

Development of Guild Wars Reforged began in early 2025, with the newly formed studio 2weeks collaborating closely with ArenaNet. Dillon pointed out that the rapid progress was facilitated by the existing knowledge of many team members who are veterans of the Guild Wars franchise. He praised ArenaNet’s commitment to maintaining the game’s code, sharing that the original codebase was in surprisingly good condition upon their return.

A recent anniversary event showcased the original Guild Wars, attracting both veteran players and newcomers, and highlighted the game’s sustained popularity. However, it revealed some technical flaws like crashes on 4K monitors, which the Reforged edition aims to address.

One key motivation for the updated version was to improve compatibility with current gaming hardware, particularly the Steam Deck. Dillon clarified that although it is not a remaster, it does modernize the experience to meet contemporary standards, especially on higher resolution displays. The developers hope the renewed interest in classic online games will attract both new players and those returning to the franchise.

Guild Wars Reforged is set to launch on December 3, offering an opportunity for developers to reconnect with the content they initially created. Dillon shared a nostalgic reflection while revisiting the game, recalling the talented team that crafted its unique features and environments. “It’s been rewarding on multiple levels to revisit all this craft of work,” he said.