What is the Best Character to Start with in Guild Wars 2?
Guild Wars 2 is a highly acclaimed MMORPG with a vast array of playable characters, each with their unique abilities and playstyles. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming for new players to decide which character to start with. In this article, we will explore the best characters for beginners and provide some guidance on how to choose the right one for you.
Core Builds: Easiest to Learn
According to various sources, including the official Guild Wars 2 forums and YouTube tutorials, the Guardian, Ranger, and Necromancer are considered the easiest classes to learn for beginners. These classes have a more straightforward skill rotation and are less dependent on intricate combos and timing.
Here’s a brief overview of each class:
- Guardian: A defensive-minded class that excels at tanking and holding aggro. They have access to powerful shields and healing abilities.
- Ranger: A versatile class that can deal significant damage from a distance or up close. They have abilities that allow them to control enemies and crowd-control mobs.
- Necromancer: A death-defying class that manipulates the souls of the dead to damage enemies and heal allies. They have access to dark magic and can summon a variety of undead minions.
Elite Specializations: Add Complexity
While Core Builds are great for beginners, Elite Specializations offer more complexity and depth for players who want to progress further. Elite Specializations are advanced versions of existing classes that require a more nuanced understanding of the game mechanics.
Here are a few Elite Specializations to consider:
- Warrior: The Power Shield Warrior is a popular Elite Specialization that focuses on dealing massive damage while still providing some defensive capabilities.
- Elementalist: The Scrapper Elementalist is a fun and flexible Elite Specialization that excels at dealing elemental damage and controlling the battlefield.
Racial Abilities: No Impact on Gameplay
In Guild Wars 2, racial abilities do not have a significant impact on gameplay. Each race has its unique racial abilities, but they are not as powerful or game-changing as other classes. This makes it easier for players to choose a race based on their personal preference or playstyle.
DPS: A Good Indicator
DPS (Damage Per Second) is a key indicator of a character’s effectiveness in combat. Higher DPS characters can clear mobs faster and take down enemies more efficiently. Here are some general guidelines for DPS:
- Low to Average DPS: 0-10k DPS: Good for beginners, can clear mobs slowly.
- Average DPS: 10-20k DPS: Balanced, can clear mobs at a moderate pace.
- High DPS: 20-30k DPS: Good for experienced players, can clear mobs quickly.
Current Popularity: A Glance
According to various sources, including MMO Populations and Dexerto, here is a rough estimate of the current popularity of characters in Guild Wars 2:
| Class | Number of Players |
|---|---|
| Necromancer | 12.1% |
| Guardian | 11.4% |
| Warrior | 10.6% |
| Elementalist | 9.2% |
| Ranger | 8.5% |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best character to start with in Guild Wars 2 depends on your personal playstyle and preferences. If you’re a beginner, consider starting with a Core Build, such as the Guardian, Ranger, or Necromancer. If you want to add complexity to your gameplay, consider an Elite Specialization. Remember to choose a race based on your personal preference, and don’t worry too much about racial abilities. For experienced players, consider focusing on high-DPS characters to clear mobs quickly. Happy gaming!