
Many users indicate that skill and strategy are the primary factors in PvP, as gear and levels are irrelevant in structured formats. Veterans note that paying players do not dominate leaderboards, reinforcing a balanced competitive environment.
According to player experiences, all items available for purchase can also be earned through gameplay, albeit with significant time investment. Community consensus indicates that while some cosmetics are exclusive, they do not impact gameplay.
How aggressively the game pushes players to spend money to progress
Players frequently mention that while progression can be time-consuming, it is not deliberately frustrating. The grind for best-in-slot gear can take substantial hours, but it is achievable without spending money.
Forum discussions suggest that players can buy their way to endgame gear much faster, effectively skipping the grind. However, this does not equate to an unfair advantage, as free players can reach the same power level over time.
Community feedback indicates that while there are limited-time items, they are mostly cosmetic and do not affect gameplay. Many users note that the game does not heavily rely on FOMO tactics to drive purchases.
Fairness and transparency of the monetization practices
Players report that Black Lion Chests contain loot boxes with RNG elements, offering a chance at exclusive items. However, players can earn keys through gameplay, which softens the gambling aspect.
According to community feedback, while the currency exchange system is clear, the dynamic pricing and transaction fees can be confusing for new players. Many users suggest that more transparency would be beneficial.
Players report that while competitive spending isn't necessary, high spenders can accelerate their progress significantly. However, the overall cost to remain competitive is relatively low compared to other games, with many players spending $0 monthly.
Our assessment of Guild Wars 2 is based on the following publicly available sources:
Disclaimer: The P2W analysis for Guild Wars 2 represents our editorial opinion based on publicly available information and community feedback as of January 2026. Game monetization systems may change over time. We encourage players to research current in-game purchases before making decisions. This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered definitive or exhaustive.
If you believe any information is inaccurate or outdated, please contact us with corrections.