Classic Guild Wars is stepping back into the spotlight with Guild Wars Reforged, a refreshed and consolidated version of the iconic 2005 MMORPG. Arriving on Steam on December 3, this update brings together the original campaigns, modernises the game for today’s hardware, and gives longtime players a reason to return to Tyria once again.
While it’s not a full remaster, Reforged is shaping up to be the most convenient way to experience Guild Wars in 2025.
A New Package For A Classic MMO
For years, buying Guild Wars has been confusing for newcomers. Between the Game of the Year Edition, the Trilogy bundle, individual campaigns, and the recent Masterpiece Collection, the options were messy.
Guild Wars Reforged simplifies everything by bundling the game’s three main campaigns, Prophecies, Factions, and Nightfall, into one NZ$20 package. Existing owners get the entire update free, while new players finally have an easy, streamlined way to jump in.
There is one catch. ArenaNet has confirmed that the Eye of the North expansion is not included and will remain a separate purchase.
Built For Modern Hardware
Reforged isn’t a full remaster, but it does introduce a wide range of improvements that help the game feel far more at home on modern setups. ArenaNet and partner studio 2weeks, made up of former Guild Wars developers who returned to the franchise in 2024, have rebuilt and upgraded several core systems.
Steam Deck and Controller Support
The game now features native controller support, which also paves the way for upcoming Steam Deck verification. Controller mapping has been streamlined, and an on-screen guide helps players adjust quickly whether they are on a PC or gaming handheld.
Sharper Visuals and Cleaner UI
Guild Wars Reforged adds several graphical upgrades, including:
- New ambient occlusion
- Dynamic sky bloom and lighting improvements
- Updated rendering tech
- New HD skill icons
- Larger text and font size options
- High-DPI support for 4K and ultrawide displays
These tweaks freshen up the look of Tyria without changing the iconic art style that players fell in love with two decades ago.
Rebuilt Audio and Navigation Tools
The game’s audio has been rebuilt with enhanced 3D environmental sound, delivering more atmosphere and clearer positional cues. Reforged also adds a new quest tracker and navigation system to guide players toward their next objective, a welcome quality-of-life improvement for anyone returning after years away.
A Free Anniversary Gift For Existing Players
Guild Wars Reforged is launching as part of the game’s extended 20th anniversary celebrations, following a major milestone earlier this year. Every enhancement, from graphics to UI upgrades, will be automatically added for players who already own any of the supported versions of Guild Wars.
ArenaNet emphasises that Reforged is not a one-time drop. The studio has described this release as “renewing our commitment to the game”, hinting at additional updates and improvements arriving in the future.
Guild Wars Continues To Thrive Two Decades Later
Thanks to its skill-based combat, deep PvE and PvP systems, and timeless world design, Guild Wars remains a beloved favourite among MMO fans. With Guild Wars 2 still going strong following its sixth expansion in October, the franchise continues to grow on both retro and modern fronts.
Reforged is an opportunity for long-time players to revisit Tyria in a smoother and more accessible format, and a perfect entry point for new adventurers discovering the series for the first time.
Guild Wars Reforged launches December 3 on Steam.