ArenaNet explains how microtransactions will work in Guild Wars 2

Mike O’Brien, executive producer for Guild Wars 2, has posted a blog update regarding the microtransaction system, which he reassuringly states was not designed as a “pay to win" form of monetization.

According to O'Brien, microtransactions will help with ongoing development with the customer ultimately deciding how much they wish to spend.

"You get a complete and playable game no matter what, but we think we can provide additional content and services that you’d be happy to pay for." he wrote. "And when you pay for them, you help fund our support of Guild Wars 2 in a way that benefits all players of the game.

"Here’s our philosophy on microtransactions: We think players should have the opportunity to spend money on items that provide visual distinction and offer more ways to express themselves. They should also be able to spend money on account services and on time-saving convenience items. But it’s never OK for players to buy a game and not be able to enjoy what they paid for without additional purchases, and it’s never OK for players who spend money to have an unfair advantage over players who spend time."

The game will contain three currencies in the form of gems, gold, and karma. Gems will be currency purchased through microtransactions, gold will be the standard in-game currency, and Karma will be earned through progression through the game and used for unique rewards.

Gold and gems and be traded interchangeably, but since a player cannot "buy gold" you can instead trade the gems for more in-game currency.

The next beta is scheduled for Guild Wars 2 later this month, and the game launches this year.

Thanks, GameFront.