Guild Wars Mini-Interview #2

ArenaNet has answered another small number of questions about Guild Wars, and this time the interview is over at MMORPG.com. Check it out:

Q: How extensive will the tradeskill system be? Will user-created or user-enhanced items be preferable to items dropped in the game?

A: The tradeskill system is designed to be fun, but of course in a skill based game, it’s important that items not have an overpowering influence on the balance of the game. For instance, I doubt that you will be able to craft a sword that is 400% better than an item that someone else finds in the game. But significant improvements via crafting? You bet! At this time, there are several types of items available: First, there are items drops that come from slaying a monster. These have normal stats, or can come in a “rare” form. (And rares are pretty darn rare, making them much sought after and very fun to acquire.) Then there is the option to customize an item, something that can be done in town for a modest amount of gold. Customized items are bound to a particular character, but in exchange for that binding, the item acquires increased stats. Lastly, there are upgraded items. Upgrades are still in the early stages, but currently you can find components for upgrades in the game and then use them to improve an item. For instance, you might find a better handgrip for a bow. By taking it to the town crafter, that handgrip will be merged with your existing bow and the bow will become better in one of several ways: Perhaps it will acquire greater range, or it might become more accurate. The fun comes when you find a rare item, customize it and then upgrade it still further.