ArenaNet’s popular massively multiplayer online roleplaying game, or MMORPG, “Guild Wars 2” has been regarded as one of the best running MMOs along with long-time greats like Blizzard’s “World of Warcraft.” Since the game's release three years ago, ArenaNet has been providing fans with regular updates and add-ons to keep the game fresh and new. After reaching a milestone, the developer has announced a launch date for one of the biggest additions to the game to date.

August 29 marked the three-year anniversary of the release of “Guild Wars 2.” ArenaNet did not let the milestone go unnoticed, as they decided to make a big announcement along with the anniversary. A press release from the official website of “Guild Wars 2” states an official release date for the first expansion, Heart of Thorns, which is set on Oct. 23, 2015. Pre-orders for the expansion are already purchasable through the website of “Guild Wars 2,” and buying it will allow players to access the expansion’s future beta releases, the first of which is on Sept. 4.

The developer brought more good news to players as they announced that as of the game's third anniversary, “Guild Wars 2” will follow a free-to-play model. Techtimes reports that the developer has officially removed the required subscription fee to play the game. Unlike other MMOs, the subscription model of “Guild Wars 2” requires players to pay a one-time subscription fee upfront. The developer added that they believe that this is the solution to the problem which keeps many players away from the game.

Basically, all players need to do is purchase the game itself. ArenaNet added that gamers only need to purchase the upcoming “Guild Wars 2: Heart of Thorns.” Despite the game turning to a free-to-play model, players will still need to pay actual money to buy cosmetic items.

However, ArenaNet has placed restrictions on free accounts to avoid future complications. First, free accounts will have less character slots. Next, free accounts will have chat and economy restrictions, but the developer is yet to fully detail what this means. Lastly, the free accounts will not be allowed to advance if they could cause problems for other players. What this means is that accounts will be limited to going to high-level areas to avoid item and level pulling. For instance, new players must first reach level 10 before they can leave the starting zone.

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