Guild Wars 2

Hi there.

At Reddit one guy said he spoke with Colin at the PAX south “after party” and Colin said there will be 1 specialization/profession.
It will be your choice to advence to it or not.
If you advence you will gain 1 new weapon type previously unavaible for that profession, gain new skills (utilities, elites) new traits and may be more (base mechanics).
There are no information yet if the original weapon skills changing with advence or not.
Its seems to me logical if you advence you will lose some of your original profession skills (eg. utilites, elites).
Its your decision..stay at your original profession, keep your loved skills, traits..or change to something else..
The specialization is not a final decision and there will be a way to swap back.
So we will get 1 spec/prof at the HoT release..
Maybe in later HoT patches we can get more specializations..
But all of these are still guessing..do not handle them as facts!

1 spec/prof would be a major fail.

This must be a bad rumor. Don’t believe this kind of second hand information.

Two specializations per profession is the absolute minimum. ANet knows that too. Otherwise this is no specialization, but a simple morph. Just an upgrade.

I saw it, he also said no polearms. Just staves designed in a way to resemble polearms.

If that’s true then it’s very very disappointing.

Anet may view it as after releasing one specialization a player has two choices, the original state of the class as we know it or the new specialization. So in the Rangers case you can either be a Ranger or a Druid, not a Ranger Druid or a Ranger “x”.

If there is only one Specialization for each Profession then it doesn’t make any sense to say “IF you choose this Specialization” because there is no choice. I believe the best way for this to work is if the Specializations also take something from the main profession.

I made a post in another thread how I thought a “specialization” system could work in this game:

Sublasses can be a way for a player to SPECIALIZE in something. Specializations like this will offer extra skills, available only to those who spec in them, and a new trait line that replaces the profession specific traitline with new traits.
An example some Warrior Specializations:
“Raging Juggernaut”, buffs Physical Skills, Axes, Greatsword, Special Trait is Rage that replaces Strength and offers more ways to charge up Adrenaline faster (instead of buffing Burst Skills)
“Battle Commander”, buffs Warhorn, Banners, Shouts, Special Trait is Presence that replaces Strength, this one offers more support and party buffing options, maybe increasing the duration and range of boons and healing, the more charged up your adrenaline bar is, rather than increasing the effectiveness of Burst Skills
“Sentinel”, buffs Shield, Mace, Hammer, Signets, Special Trait is Hardened, which gives the character extra defensive options, like reduced duration of conditions for each level of Adrenaline, or extra healing ability etc
Of course specializations can be used to introduce new weapons to the game, available only to the new specializations (unlockable for the base class)
Trait balance remains the same. A vanilla Warrior will use Strength, the specialized Warriors will use Rage, Presence, Hardened based on which Spec the player chose to. There is no problem with overflowing stats anymore.
Thoughts on this?

Maybe they read it?

Read the initial post!
There is a choice : stay at the original skills or change to something else..
Eg. keep being a Ranger with the known weapons, skills (utilities, elites), traits or choose to change to a Druid to gain new previously unavaible weapon (staff in this exmaple), new skills(utilites, elites) and new traits..but as a Druid you cannot access some of your old Ranger skills.

And I’m okay with that.

Kozzy.5974:

Read the initial post!
There is a choice : stay at the original skills or change to something else..
Eg. keep being a Ranger with the known weapons, skills (utilities, elites), traits or choose to change to a Druid to gain new previously unavaible weapon (staff in this exmaple), new skills(utilites, elites) and new traits..but as a Druid you cannot access some of your old Ranger skills.

So much like my proposal! I like it!

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

Well..iam not saying this as a fact…i heard this and i tought i share with you guys..to hear your opinions.
But it still can be true.
It can be a good begining..later they can easily add new specializations..

Windu The Forbidden One.6045:

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

The sPvP example made me smile =) and I agree with you.

Seriously, I’d rather see the expansion postponed instead of having only 1 specialisation per class.
Also, seriously, after all those trailers with implied polearms they want to come out with “Just kidding! Just staves in disguise!!”

Please no, could Gaile Gray say a word about this?

Well there is choice. You’re either a ranger or a druid. There is no advantage when playing a druid over a ranger. Class mechanics will be changed. But we have to wait for more info to see how deep it goes.

Edit: the term ‘specialization’ is confusing a lot of people.

Stepping back, I view this like in DnD 3.0/3.5, where you advance as one class, putting your skill points in certain areas and taking specific feats, so when you hit lv six or later, you go into a pristeige class, which can change how your abilities and character plays.

Now, how we advance our character to these specifics is unknown. But I get how they harken this back to duel professions in gw1, as I’m sure some people made up their own name for their two prof combination and skills, and while some people, despite having two, only focused on one prof and filled their bar with nothing but skills tied to it.

Now, given history, yes, I can see only one specialization at this time, because anet seems to be focusing a lot on introducing little, then balancing around it before introducing something else (expect many adjustments to Revenant).

So yes, I would like to see at least two options at the start, and more as the game goes on, but right now I’ll stick with my pessimism and believe that yes, it will be one.

If they release this with only one specialization per class if could seriously damage the expansion in the eyes of a lot of players. We want, no, demand, the horizontal progression and diversity this game was supposed to have shipped with in the first place. Even if these new specializations aren’t strictly ‘better’, with only one per profession it will still be viewed as an ‘upgrade’ rather than a ‘specialization’, and likely so will any specializations that come later down the line.

I would prefer they take the time to add at the very least two specializations to each class, even if that means delaying release.

Windu The Forbidden One.6045:

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

There is choice if when you select your specialization you also “lose” something from the original profession.

Conncept.7638:

If they release this with only one specialization per class if could seriously damage the expansion in the eyes of the players. We want, no, demand, the horizontal progression and build diversity this game was supposed to ship with in the first place.

I would prefer they take the time to add two more specializations to each class, even if that means delaying release.

I would say that the main addition to horizontal progression will be the Mastery system rather than the specialization system to be honest.

Conncept.7638:

If they release this with only one specialization per class if could seriously damage the expansion in the eyes of the players. We want, no, demand, the horizontal progression and build diversity this game was supposed to ship with in the first place.

I would prefer they take the time to add two more specializations to each class, even if that means delaying release.

Entitled much?
We don’t know how deep the system goes. You might want to wait ‘till we have more info.
They said it’s gonna change the class mechanics. If they do 3 per class then that’s 27!!!! new class mechanics + the existing class mechanics (+ 9).

butch.8136:

Conncept.7638:

If they release this with only one specialization per class if could seriously damage the expansion in the eyes of the players. We want, no, demand, the horizontal progression and build diversity this game was supposed to ship with in the first place.

I would prefer they take the time to add two more specializations to each class, even if that means delaying release.

Entitled much?
We don’t know how deep the system goes. You might want to wait ‘till we have more info.
They said it’s gonna change the class mechanics. If they do 3 per class then that’s 27!!!! new class mechanics + the existing class mechanics (+ 9).

Yeah, it’s an expansion, not a LS update. I can name a dozen MMOs, free and paid, that have released expansion with significantly more new class content than that.

And try making a real argument instead of reading the first sentence of my post and using the buzzword of the day. There is not a single ‘entitled’ thing about my post. You going to call me biased, racist, or a homophobe next?

Kaiyanwan.8521:

1 spec/prof would be a major fail.

This must be a bad rumor. Don’t believe this kind of second hand information.

Two specializations per profession is the absolute minimum. ANet knows that too. Otherwise this is no specialization, but a simple morph. Just an upgrade.

Or…is this simply a foundation for them to add further specialisms in future releases? I think so. As disappointed as you might be with only one right now, I think only one is what we’re gonna get.

Aye, adding one spec per profession might actually be a rather smart idea. In order to see if the system works out well. It would be quite a waste to spend months making 2-3 specializations and then end up with it not really working well in the game at all.

Better to give it a try with one each and add more in the future if the system works out as planned.

Kozzy.5974:

At Reddit one guy said he spoke with Colin at the PAX south “after party” and Colin said there will be 1 specialization/profession.

Seems like a reliable source.

maddoctor.2738:

Windu The Forbidden One.6045:

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

There is choice if when you select your specialization you also “lose” something from the original profession.

Still comes down to a choice between using something or not using something.

I can’t say I’m not disappointed, but I was somewhat expecting this since they never clarified on multiple specializations. Regardless, I’m still okay with the system overall as long as they expand on the system in future expansions. However, I’m worried they might just give up on the system part way without it realizing it’s full potential like so many other systems (Dungeons, Guild Missions, Wallet, etc)

Windu The Forbidden One.6045:

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

Well I totally agree to your point but technically there are different pvp modes >.> You can choose between WvW-PvP and 5v5-PvP.

But you are entirely right. Being able to choose between specializing and not specializing are NOT two choices for specialization.

Wait for official statement and don’t believe every reddit-guy. Because… you know… People are always telling the truth on the internet…

you get only 1 and thats alot

I may be mistaken and I’m currently not at a place right now to go review… But during the stream didn’t they confirm at least 2 specializations per profession?

The thing that will determine the significance of the [not specialize/do specialize] choice is how much the specialist LOSES in the process of gaining a new weapon and new options. If the choice is between [Ranger/Ranger+more] then there will be no meaningful choice.

Its from an another similar topic from here (gw2.forums):
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/game/hot/Let-s-Talk-About-Specializations/4728659

grayskull.2367:
“i don’t get why people are still speculating if there will be more than one Specializations per-class. When its clear stated right here there will not be on the release of the expansion dose not mean they will not or could not add more in the future.

I spoke with Colin at the after party. Only ((((ONE)))) specialty per class at this time. It works very much like a secondary profession where you can mix and match your skills. It can also be modified any time you are out of combat. Unclear if each class is only getting one new weapon but from the ranger speciality it appears at least that the new weapons come from the new specialties.
this line here is great. Only combos he would confirm was ranger and necro weapons already shown. Though he hinted at looking closely at the trailer for others.
basically what he is saying here is some of, if not all of the new weapon for each class are being showing in the trailer dose it not make scene to have all the profession show in the trailer with there new weapons set but with out letting the viewers know?"

Nike.2631:

The thing that will determine the significance of the [not specialize/do specialize] choice is how much the specialist LOSES in the process of gaining a new weapon and new options. If the choice is between [Ranger/Ranger+more] then there will be no meaningful choice.

^ this..
Let’s remember that Obrien made it clear that the first GW2 expansion is meant to put the foundation for where the game is going to head. That was his answer when asked if there will be future expansion which could imply that they do indeed plan releasing future expansion to expand on the systems that they are introducing here.

This expansion seems more like trying a new way of introducing content and progression. The new jungle areas for example with the civilisation/mastery systems seem to have far more depth than average zones.

Apparently it is too early to tell where this expansion is going to take the game.

Kozzy.5974:

Its from an another similar topic from here (gw2.forums):
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/game/hot/Let-s-Talk-About-Specializations/4728659

grayskull.2367:
“i don’t get why people are still speculating if there will be more than one Specializations per-class. When its clear stated right here there will not be on the release of the expansion dose not mean they will not or could not add more in the future.

I spoke with Colin at the after party. Only ((((ONE)))) specialty per class at this time. It works very much like a secondary profession where you can mix and match your skills. It can also be modified any time you are out of combat. Unclear if each class is only getting one new weapon but from the ranger speciality it appears at least that the new weapons come from the new specialties.
this line here is great. Only combos he would confirm was ranger and necro weapons already shown. Though he hinted at looking closely at the trailer for others.
basically what he is saying here is some of, if not all of the new weapon for each class are being showing in the trailer dose it not make scene to have all the profession show in the trailer with there new weapons set but with out letting the viewers know?"

in what way is that a better proof than what you had before? I mean you are free to believe it but wait for official announcements before you take it as a fact.

^ He posted a foto with colin and mike too. Still not proof they actually said it. But still, might want to start accepting the fact there’ll only be 1 spec.

I repeat myself..as i said in the initial post:
“all of these are still guessing..do not handle them as facts!”

So your choice is to either advance your class or not advance your class?

That isn’t a specialization choice, that is a forced decision.

Everyone will choose to become the specialization because it will be better. If it isn’t better then no one will become the specialization and it was a waste of time.

There will need to be a minimum of 2 choices so you can have 2 distinct play styles that are both better than not specializing.

ZudetGambeous.9573:

So your choice is to either advance your class or not advance your class?

That isn’t a specialization choice, that is a forced decision.

Everyone will choose to become the specialization because it will be better. If it isn’t better then no one will become the specialization and it was a waste of time.

You left out the option that the two choices might be equally strong, just aimed at different things.

C’mon guys… It’s not even out or detailled we already complain.

One specialization is already good: people wanted more skills, they are given some, and it’s not enough. They will certainly work on new specializations as time goes by (what’s the point on releasing everything really fast? You all want the 6 EDs to be defeated in a year?).

A new weapon is already a good change in gameplay, as well as the new mechanics. Wait and see, but please give the devs a break. You’re acting as if you knew every nook and cranny of HoT. In the end you’ll all play the game as it is and enjoy it, don’t act as if you’d hate the game you’ve spent years on.

ZudetGambeous.9573:

So your choice is to either advance your class or not advance your class?

That isn’t a specialization choice, that is a forced decision.

Everyone will choose to become the specialization because it will be better. If it isn’t better then no one will become the specialization and it was a waste of time.

There will need to be a minimum of 2 choices so you can have 2 distinct play styles that are both better than not specializing.

Apparently, you will tell me ’’that’s the same, if the new specialization is good then everyone will play it, it is not a choice. In which case I can always say ‘’even if there are two specializations, one will always be better than the other so it is a forced decision, not a choice’’.

It is all about this simple question: is the specialization system a system that is supposed to progress your character or just make it different? if it is to progress your character then it is useless apparently. If it is just a way to play the class differently, in which case you will lose a junk of your original class skills and perhaps a weapon, then it could actually be classified as a choice. Either be a ranger or a druid in other words. Both, even if simliar, are played differently to some extent.

Hm..let’s see:
Choice1 : using Rangers skills and traits.
Choice2 : using Druid skills and traits.
As a Druid you may not access all of your original Ranger skills.
You do have your choice.
Specialization here does not mean “better”..its only means something else…a new weapon with new weapon skills, new utility and elite skills, and traits.

I said this in another topic, but it seems like they are setting up a system for future specializations to be added later. It is a shame if there is only one per profession, however, the terminology chose to use implies more will come later.

I would be way cool with there only being 1 specialization per class IF they allowed the core professions to go further in the x-pac. That way there would still be the progression they are talking about with specializations with the core profs. Hopefully their design allows for the core professions to grow our characters. Otherwise, you will be forced to do the specializations if you want to have any sort of progression whatsoever.

ZudetGambeous.9573:

So your choice is to either advance your class or not advance your class?

That isn’t a specialization choice, that is a forced decision.

It is if becoming a Druid costs you 25% of your health.

You might choose to remain a Ranger.

Everyone will choose to become the specialization because it will be better. If it isn’t better then no one will become the specialization and it was a waste of time.

There will need to be a minimum of 2 choices so you can have 2 distinct play styles that are both better than not specializing.

Even if there are 2 (or 12, or 25…) some groupthink-mouthbreathers will insist one is better and the others should either be buffed or not exist. That’s the Game Designer’s day job. Nothing new there.

As i see: Specializations doesnt make you better, its not a progression to your character.
Its changes the mechanics of you character and your skills, traits.
Masteries will do the “progress” on your character (account).

Windu The Forbidden One.6045:

If there is only one specialization, then it isn’t a specialization.
Specialization implies choice.

And please don’t come with “you can choose not to use the specialization, so you do have choice”. For real…

Thats like saying there are different pvp modes to choose from right now. You can choose between playing conquest, and not playing conquest. What a great assortment of choices!

It ain’t so if that Specialization comes with downsides compared to the base class. E.g. if Druid can no longer use Longbow.

Specialization here does not mean “better”..its only means something else…a new weapon with new weapon skills, new utility and elite skills, and traits.

Quote of the day!

This in every way is what a Specialzation is, its a different way to play your char. Like Minion Master V Terrormanser. It will not make you super OP to Specialise or not it will just change your play style.

STOP thinking about it as OMFG OP upgrade i must play this way or no one will like me nos more =,( QQ

Did people here just not read the Horizontal Progression CDI? It was a year ago so I linked it. Here, I’ll link it again. We’ve talked about this AT LENGTH (some 67 PAGES at the time). You can see the blueprints for specialization in there pretty clearly.

You guys are pretty trusting of ’some guy on reddit said he talked to a senior guy at Anet at a private party"

butch.8136:

Well there is choice. You’re either a ranger or a druid. There is no advantage when playing a druid over a ranger.

But there seems to be an advantage from what all that I’ve heard. While you may decide to stay a pure Ranger, that dude that went Druid has the same skills as you, the same weapons, and the same traits. Except he has MORE than you from each of the above, and can mix-and-match however he chooses and could make a better BEARBOW build than a normal Ranger! This could ( and will in all likely hood ) give an advantage to a player in sPvP or WvW.

I think it’s crappy just looking at what’s been revealed so far. People have been clamoring for more traits, weapons, and utilities forever now. Now that we’re about to get some, they force us to switch our classes into something that’s more “specialized” than our current ones. There’s an outstanding chance that a lot of people are going to dislike the new specialization, but like some of the weapons, utilities, and traits. So they have an option; play the new specialized class, or keep the same crap you’ve been running for going on three years.

Was it just so hard to add what they did to existing classes?

People are taking the specialization the wrong way, so kudos to everyone trying to set it straight.

Specialization DOES NOT mean your character gets stronger, it means it plays DIFFERENTLY. If you choose to not go druid, you are suppose to be (balancing issues of course pending as always) as equally valuable as a ranger.

Now, is anyone gonna comment on the engi wielding a two handed hammer (wtb mace so I can use The Fixer though ) with DRONES flying around him?

Expect to see one specialization per class at the launch of the expansion. I reckon feature patches beyond it will contain more specializations. This is an experimental platform which can allow for long-term growth and can freely be expanded upon. It very much resembles Pathfinder Archetypes, which allow for deep build customization.

I wouldn’t expect to see too much at the launch, however adding in an additional option would have been a smarter way to demonstrate the capabilities of the platform/prove there is more incoming in the future regarding specializations.

No your wrong you want get all your weapons and traits when Specialising they state that much if you Specialise you will not get the the use of all the weapons and trait of say a longbow ranger.
Im 100% sure they will lock the long/short bow use when you are a Druid so you are more support/heal focused then DPS it make perfect scene if you think about it.

They might just be getting the system ready now so they can add more specializations later.