I’m considering buying the latest GW2 expansions: End of Dragons, Secrets of the Obscure, and Janthir Wilds. I loved the original game and the first two expansions for their huge zones and epic meta-events, like the Seraphs battling the Centaurs and the massive wars against the Risen. Heart of Thorns had its intense conflict with the Mordrem and the amazing Path of Fire mixed in with high stakes and tons of action. However, I stopped playing after End of Dragons because it felt less grand. From what I see, EoD appears to focus on smaller conflicts and exploration rather than large-scale battles. Secrets of the Obscure seems to continue this trend with a wizard cabal against Chaos Daemons. Janthir Wilds looks even more exploratory with not much exciting conflict. I understand that GW2 is trying to create a more relaxed experience, but I’m not sure if these expansions are really worth it for someone seeking epic events. For those who have played these expansions, can you confirm if they really lack the big meta-events and epic battles that defined earlier expansions?
4 Answers
The story has shifted since the Core GW2 days. With EoD, the huge dragon wars are essentially over, and now it’s about being a wayfinder and new threats. The expansions are more about exploration, which could be either good or bad depending on your preference.
But some players miss the big conflicts! It’s a double-edged sword for sure.
I think you might be misjudging End of Dragons. It actually has some pretty epic meta events, especially the Dragons End event, but I do agree that the last two expansions feel a bit toned down compared to the earlier ones.
I initially thought it would be low stakes too, but it turns out EoD is filled with epic events! I’m glad I gave it a shot!
Yeah, the story is more chill, but that doesn’t mean it lacks excitement!
Honestly, upping the epicness every time isn’t great storytelling. You can’t keep saying every new threat will destroy the world; it loses impact eventually. A slower build helps maintain tension for when something really big does come along.
Totally agree. It’s nice to see some stakes without it always being about world destruction.
I get that! I’d like large-scale events without the world-ending drama, something like civil wars or explorations.
Janthir is definitely leading towards some big conflicts, but right now it’s about the story and exploring. There’s still a decent meta event to check out in Syntri. For some, this slower pace is refreshing.
I appreciate the shift! Smaller stakes can feel more impactful in terms of narrative.