ArenaNet just confirmed the dates for the second Beta Weekend Event, and it is happening sooner than you think. BWE2 runs from Friday, June 8 through Sunday, June 10, and it comes with a new playable race (the Asura), a new zone (Snowden Drift), and a level cap raise to 35. If you missed the first beta weekend or you just need another fix before launch, this is your next window in.
We managed to get our hands on a handful of extra beta keys, and we are giving them away to readers. No hoops. No newsletter signups. Just one thing.
How to Enter
Check out the video below, then drop a comment telling us which profession you plan to play first in BWE2. That is it.
We will pick winners at random from the comments on Monday, June 4, and email the keys out before the BWE2 client goes live on Friday. If you do not get a key from us, do not worry - keep an eye on the official forums and the usual fansites. More giveaways are popping up every day.
What to Expect in BWE2
If you sat out BWE1, here is what you should know. The Norn and Charr starting areas are fully open this time alongside the Asura. The level cap is 35, which means your first dungeon, Ascalonian Catacombs, is on the table. Structured PvP unlocks all traits and skills, so you can jump straight into competitive builds without grinding. World vs. World is expected to be far more stable than the first beta weekend, with several crash fixes already confirmed in the patch notes.
For the full rundown, ArenaNet published a detailed BWE2 preview on Tuesday covering the Mystic Forge, automated PvP tournaments, improved overflow servers, and the new skill tier system. “We want to make the transition from PvE to World vs. World easy and natural for players,” said developer Matt Witter in the post.
Logistics
When: Friday, June 8 at 12:01 PM PT through Sunday, June 10 at 11:59 PM PT.
Client download: Available starting Thursday, June 7. Download it early so you can play the moment servers come up.
Character wipe: Yes, BWE1 characters were wiped. Expect the same after BWE2. Do not get attached to that level 30 elementalist just yet.
Good luck in the giveaway, and we will see you on the battlefield.