Guild Wars 2

I also just switched from WoW.

I find many similarities making the learning curve fast.
- I remember first learning WoW 5 years ago and it took me a long time. Weeks/Months learning about basic game mechanics, macros, UI customization, etc. GW2 I was able to just step in and start playing.

→ Some WoW players are fixated with predictible repetition. Things should be where you expect them, change is bad, give me more of the same. Some players are very comfortable with what they have mastered. They like running the same dungeon/raid over and over and over.

Anyway, GW2 is different. So if you fixate on the differences, particulary what WoW has and GW2 doesn’t… then you might not like it.

So far I find it more cooperative and friendly. Perhaps more “positive”? I also haven’t seen weirdo’s, idiots, naked nut-jobs, trolls, and YELLING MORONS. Also no Pornshire style ERP. Seems like everyone just wants to play an mmo RPG. Maybe it depends on the server you select?

Anyway… my first impression… so far I really like it.

“This is a common and regular thing in MMOs.” [implying that makes it okay]

Sure hope you don’t work for ArenaNet.

“I don’t understand the problem”

Let me spell it out for you.

1) The character creation interface allows you to “go back” and edit every decision… except name selection. You don’t know this until its too late.

2) Almost every single imaginable single English word is already taken including common names, uncommon names, misspelt names, flowers, rocks, spices, gemstones, and almost every crazy name like “crazy”, “goof”, “qwerty”, etc.

3) After trying several dozen possibilities the first-time player starts experimenting with unusual name ideas…. then blamo … one gets accepted and you are sent directly into a cinematic. …. kinda sucks. (yes WoW behaves the same… except lacking all the great character customization)

So as I pointed out… the only solution is to create a dummy “throw-away” character to find a desirable name, which you later delete. Then you create your “real” character.

I’m new to this game. New character creation is fantastic. Amazing. So many options and customization laid out very well.

Except… Choosing your character’s name.

After 15 minutes designing your perfect character you are planning to work very closely with 100+ hours… its brutal. Trying choice after choice after choice… its mind numbing… then finally it accepts a name…. but oops…. you entered something that sucks and there is no going back….

For many players character name is really really really important.

Suggestions:
a) Allow a player to save the game while still trying to select a name.

b) Give a player confirmation that they actually want the name that finally got accepted.

c) Allow a player to change their character’s name (free) under level 5.

(Ya, I know the crumby solution is to create a dummy character to find a good name, then delete it and create your “real” character.)

Thx very much for all your replies.

I went with Elementalist. I’m only Lvl13 but so far its the perfect choice for me. Very much looking forward to leveling up and experiencing the game.

I’m a one mmo player. I just switched to GW2. My first char is Ranger, Lvl15.

What do I like?
- A single primary character that recieves 95% of my attention.
- Ability to solo or not rely on others. Self sufficient.
- Be a valued asset to a team or guild.
(Contradictory? Solo & a team player? Lesson learned from other mmo’s)
- Not fond of close melee combat (ex: tank in other mmo).
- I like glitz, pizzaz, fun, and exciting abilities & utilities.

I like the Mesmer, not sure of its survivability. Elementalist & Necromancer too.

Big thx in advance.