As the second major expansion for Guild Wars 2, Path of Fire (released 2017) deepens the core RPG experience by launching players into the Crystal Desert to hunt the rogue god Balthazar. This content requires the base game and introduces revolutionary traversal mechanics via unlockable mounts, which fundamentally change world exploration by allowing players to leap canyons and cross sand. Furthermore, it enhances level-80 characters by adding a new elite specialization for every profession, offering new playstyles and weapon options, alongside new Elonian-themed gear.
The narrative thrust of this expansion centers on the sudden, violent return of Balthazar, the god of fire and war. Centuries of unanswered prayers give way to a terrifying reality as Balthazar reveals himself as a ruthless manipulator with little regard for mortal life. After heroes manage to thwart the initial phase of his catastrophic plan against the Elder Dragons, the conflict escalates. Players are tasked with leading allies into the scorched lands of the south to halt Balthazar’s zealous march before he can set the foundations of the world ablaze.
The setting shifts dramatically to the arid, dangerous expanse of the Crystal Desert. Players will journey through this new environment, discovering unique treasures and immersing themselves in the culture and heritage of the Elonian people.
Perhaps the most transformative addition in this expansion is the introduction of mounts. These companions are far more than simple speed enhancements; they represent an entirely new paradigm for world exploration. Players unlock and train these companions using the max-level Mastery character progression system.
These mounts grant unprecedented mobility, allowing players to:
For players who have reached the level cap of 80, this content provides significant avenues for further character evolution and customization. A new elite specialization is introduced for every existing profession.
These specializations unlock:
As players traverse the Crystal Desert, they have the opportunity to earn and acquire new cosmetic and functional items inspired by the region. This includes entirely new armor sets, unique weapon skins, and visual customization options that reflect the Elonian culture and the desert’s heritage.
This specific content release is an expansion and builds directly upon the existing Role-Playing Game framework. It requires ownership of the base game to access its features and does not function as a standalone title.
Advice for consumers This game has been rated PEGI 12 for depictions of non-realistic looking violence towards human-like characters, and use of mild bad language. Not suitable for persons under 12 years of age. Brief outline of the game Guild Wars 2: Path of Fire is the second expansion for the game, Guild Wars 2. As the balance of magic comes undone, lead your allies in the hunt for the rogue god Balthazar, whose scorched-earth campaign threatens the very existence of Tyria. Content specific issues This game contains frequent depictions of non-realistic looking violence towards human-like and fantasy characters. Bright lights and magical effects appear on impact of attacks, with numbers appearing showing the amount of damage inflicted. When enemies are defeated they fall to the floor and their bodies quickly disappear. When the player is killed, they are able to respawn with no visible injuries present on their bodies. This game also contains infrequent use of mild bad language, the words “bastard”, “ass” and “bloody” are found in the text.