As part of the Summer Game Fest showcase, developer ArenaNet officially revealed the next entry in its long-running MMORPG series with Guild Wars 3. It'll be an action-style RPG with a focus on traversal, using momentum for combat, and branching skillsets and customization, all while being tuned for keyboard-mouse controls and gamepad.
The reveal trailer opens with the player character known as the Vaelwarden riding a majestic wolf-like mount and scaling up cliffs on foot. It also teased its world, which is set in the Tyrian region of Orr, which looks expansive, and you'll be responsible for protecting and preserving nature and spirits amid conflict between the world's guilds. Guild Wars 3 takes place a thousand years before the first entry, and there are new magical elements like Vael spirits and the Seeker who connect you to the land, adnt the trailer teased that you can play with a party of four. You can watch the trailer below.
Studio head Colin Johanson said, "Our approach with Guild Wars 3 is to push MMORPGs forward, to create an online game world that feels believable, rewarding, responsive, and innovative while at the same time respecting players’ time and providing a positive, supportive space to build community and enjoy new stories in our universe."
It's been 14 years since the launch of Guild Wars 2, but is still going strong with updates and new content, such as the Visions of Eternity expansion that came out in 2025. Continuiting series tradition, Guild Wars 3 will not require a subscription despite it being an MMORPG. You can wishlist it for PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam; it's worth noting that this is the first time the series will be on consoles. You can sign up for updates at GuildWars3.com, and a beta is planned for Fall 2027. Check out all the announcements coming out of Summer Game Fest 2026.
Michael Higham is an editor at IGN who regularly contributes with reviews, previews, features, and news in written and video form. He's usually entrusted with covering long RPGs and tech products, but he's got range when it comes to games. You'll also catch him at events and hosting video content, including IGN's weekly podcast Unlocked.
