No. You can play Guild Wars 2’s core game for free, and expansions can be purchased individually or in bundles. You only need the content that provides access to the maps, story, or features you want; one expansion does not automatically include every other expansion or every Living World episode.
How expansion ownership works
A Guild Wars 2 account’s access depends on which purchases are registered to it. ArenaNet says players can buy expansions individually or in bundles, so check the contents listed for a specific purchase rather than assuming it includes the full collection. ArenaNet’s buying guidance and Game Versions and Digital Items explain purchase options and what to check.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![Guild Wars 2: Visions of Eternity- Standard Edition [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517nhZw3j4L._SL160_.jpg)
|
Guild Wars 2: Visions of Eternity- Standard Edition [Online Game Code] | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
![Guild Wars 2 Gems Card 4000 Gems - PC [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51av3-rIGGL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Guild Wars 2 Gems Card 4000 Gems - PC [Online Game Code] | $50.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Guild Wars 2: Elder Dragon Saga - Complete Collection | $99.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Guild Wars 2 | $7.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Guild Wars 2, Gems - 2000 - [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51FqSbAHa6L._SL160_.jpg)
|
Guild Wars 2, Gems - 2000 - [Online Game Code] | $25.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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For example, ArenaNet’s Janthir Wilds FAQ states that buying Janthir Wilds does not include Heart of Thorns, Path of Fire, End of Dragons, or Secrets of the Obscure. Bundle inclusions can differ, so use the current listing for the edition you are considering.
What should you buy?
- If you want to try the game: Start with the free core game. ArenaNet says an expansion purchase upgrades account access, and the game has no monthly subscription fee. See Guild Wars 2 Account Types: Free, Core, Expansions.
- If you want a particular expansion’s content: Choose an individual expansion or bundle whose listed contents include the maps, story, and features you want. No single required purchase path is established; you do not have to own everything before starting or buying one expansion.
- If you want to fill in story gaps: Check Living World episode unlocks separately. ArenaNet says episodes could be unlocked free by logging in during their original release window or purchased later for gems. Owning the associated expansion is required to play an episode, but buying that expansion does not automatically unlock episodes you missed. See Living World Episode Unlocks.
Where to buy expansions for a Steam account
If your Guild Wars 2 account is a Steam account, ArenaNet says new expansions must be purchased directly through Steam. Check the storefront for the current edition and its contents before buying. See Buying the Game and Game Versions and Digital Items.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Easy to Redeem—Simply log in to your Guild Wars 2 account, open the in-game Gem Store, and enter the unique code.
- Safe & Secure—No need to enter credit card info in the game; just use the prepaid code.
- Spend Gems Your Way—Use gems to buy outfits, boosters, mounts skins, storage upgrades, and more.
- Redeemable on Standard (Client) Accounts—Not compatible with Steam or Epic Games Store-based Guild Wars 2 accounts.
Rank #4
- Guild Wars 2 provides a massive, online persistent world.
- Free online play. No monthly fee.
- Players have the freedom to play together even if their friends are at a much higher (or lower) level.
- Players will be able to engage in organized, balanced PvP (similar to GvG in the original Guild Wars) without needing to first level up characters, find equipment, or unlock skills.
- You will be able to advance your character to the maximum level without ever joining a group if you so desire.
Rank #3
- Guild Wars 2 Base Game
- Includes Guild Wars 2: End of Dragons Standard
- Includes Guild Wars 2: Path of Fire & Heart of Thorns Standard
- Also receive 5 Living World seasons to continue with your journey between the expansions
Rank #2
- Easy to Redeem—Simply log in to your Guild Wars 2 account, open the in-game Gem Store, and enter the unique code.
- Safe & Secure—No need to enter credit card info in the game; just use the prepaid code.
- Spend Gems Your Way—Use gems to buy outfits, boosters, mounts skins, storage upgrades, and more.
- Redeemable on Standard (Client) Accounts—Not compatible with Steam or Epic Games Store-based Guild Wars 2 accounts.
#1 Best Overall
- Discover the island of Castora – You’ll explore a remote island flowing with magic as you investigate suspicious Inquest activity.
- Tyria United elite specializations – Nine new elite specializations bring a new theme and playstyle to each profession with an updated profession mechanic and new utility skills.
- A year of adventure and rewards – Over the year of content, you’ll explore 4 brand-new maps, fight in new raid encounters and challenge modes, earn legendary rewards, unlock a new homestead map, and more.
- Comes with 1 Level 80 Booster & shared inventory slot – If you can’t wait to see the expansion content, this Booster will put you at max level so you can start your journey in Guild Wars 2: Visions of Eternity right away!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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