Guild Wars Reforged Launches December 3 with Steam Deck Support

Twenty years after it revolutionized the MMORPG, joining titles like EverQuest in the classic MMORPG revival. MMORPG landscape with its skill-based combat and no subscription fee model, Guild Wars is getting a second chance at glory. The legendary fantasy MMO that challenged World of Warcraft's dominance in 2005 is being modernized for a new generation of players—and this time, you can take Tyria on the go.

Guild Wars Reforged launches December 3, 2025, bringing the complete original trilogy to Steam with controller support, Steam Deck verification, and substantial visual upgrades. Developed in collaboration with 2weeks, a studio formed by former ArenaNet veterans, Reforged bundles all three campaigns—Prophecies, Factions, and Nightfall—into a single $19.99 package.

All Three Campaigns in One Package

Guild Wars Reforged consolidates the entire original saga into one purchase. For newcomers, this represents exceptional value, offering hundreds of hours of content across three distinct storylines and regions. Existing players who own any of the campaigns will automatically unlock all three at no additional cost, with all visual and technical improvements available as a free update.

This consolidation addresses one of the original game's biggest barriers to entry: the fragmented campaign structure. Back in 2005, players had to purchase Prophecies, then wait a year for Factions, then another year for Nightfall. Now, the entire world of Tyria opens up from day one.

Steam Deck Verified and Controller Support

For the first time in Guild Wars history, players can experience the game with full XInput controller support. ArenaNet and 2weeks have completely redesigned the UI with larger text options, on-screen control guides, and high-DPI display support optimized for modern monitors and handheld devices.

Steam Deck verification means portable MMORPG gaming without compromise. Whether you're grinding for legendary armor on your commute or exploring Cantha's markets from your couch, Guild Wars Reforged adapts to your playstyle. The team has optimized performance specifically for Valve's handheld, ensuring stable frame rates and readable text on the 7-inch screen.

Visual and Audio Enhancements

The visual overhaul leverages modern GPU capabilities while preserving the original art direction. Dynamic sky bloom effects create more atmospheric environments, while enhanced ambient occlusion adds depth to character models and architecture. Lighting systems have been overhauled to take advantage of contemporary hardware, making spell effects and environmental lighting more visually striking than ever.

The update includes new HD skill icons that maintain the original art style while offering crisp clarity at 4K resolutions. Additional antialiasing options smooth out jagged edges that plagued the 2005 release, and texture refinements polish the game's aesthetic without compromising its nostalgic charm.

Audio receives equal attention with positional 3D sound support. Battles now feature directional audio cues, making it easier to locate enemies and allies in chaotic team fights. The enhanced soundscape adds immersion to Jeremy Soule's already memorable musical score, which remains one of the most beloved soundtracks in MMO history.

Improved Navigation and Quest Tracking

One of the most player-friendly additions is the new quest-tracking system. The original Guild Wars required players to rely heavily on wiki guides and community resources to navigate complex mission chains. Veterans remember spending hours on Guild Wars Wiki figuring out where to go next or how to unlock elite skills.

Reforged introduces on-screen direction indicators and a modernized quest log that clearly outlines objectives without excessive hand-holding. This quality-of-life improvement makes the game more accessible to new players while preserving the exploratory nature veterans remember. You'll still need strategy and skill to conquer elite missions and Hard Mode content, but you won't waste time wondering where to trigger the next story beat.

Partnership with 2weeks Studio

The collaboration with 2weeks signals ArenaNet's long-term commitment to the original Guild Wars. Game Director Stephen Clarke-Willson emphasized this dedication: "Even after two decades, we're still passionate about improving the experience of the original Guild Wars for players."

2weeks was formed in 2024 by former ArenaNet developers with over 14 years of combined experience on the original Guild Wars. Co-founder Brandon Dillon expressed excitement about returning to the franchise that shaped much of the team's careers. Their intimate knowledge of the game's systems and community expectations positions them perfectly to guide future updates beyond the December launch.

ArenaNet confirmed this partnership extends beyond Reforged's initial release, with plans for ongoing improvements and potential content additions. A special developer livestream is scheduled for November 19 at 11 a.m. Pacific Time on Twitch, where the team will showcase the improvements and answer community questions.

Guild Wars Official Website

Game Information

Guild Wars Reforged launches December 3, 2025 on Steam and directly from ArenaNet's website at guildwars.com.