'Guild Wars 2' Heart of Thorns update: Beta can be played by all existing players

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Players who are aching to make sure that they get to try out the 24-hour beta for Guild Wars 2 this coming April 14 don't have to worry. For existing players, ArenaNet has announced that the game will be made available to all.

So why should players be excited about the upcoming beta? Well for one, the game will test the mettle of players through a new game mode known as the Stronghold mode. This mode is actually a PvP setup that was around during the original Guild Wars.

As far as existing players are concerned, gamers from North America and Europe can start accessing the beta version try out the said Stronghold mode. The exciting new mode will try to see how good players are as they try to mix together strategy, role-based play and other story elements while in PvP mode.

With regards on other things to expect in Stronghold mode, players will take on the role of pirates or knights and try to ally themselves with other teams as they try to take down the opposing side's team lord. NPCs can reportedly be hired to provide supplies for teams.

Access to the beta will start on April 14 starting at 12 p.m. PT and will be up for 24 hours.

Prior to that event, a live stream will be hosted by ArenaNet on April 10. The live stream will be hosted by Joshua Davis and the designers of Stronghold mode, Hugh Norfolk. Gamers who are considering to participate in the beta are highly encouraged to be on hand as there will be walkthroughs and the things to expect once the Stronghold moves comes around.

Players should be informed however that the Stronghold mode will only be available on unranked arena. The Revenant class will reportedly not be playable.

For players who may have missed the expansion announcement trailer, check it out below.