Guild Wars 2 players express concern over Heart of Thorns expansion price scheme

Guild Wars 2 players were rather confused over the pricing scheme laid out by ArenaNet for the Heart of Thorns expansion, as they feel newcomers to the series are getting preferential treatment.

Made available for pre-purchase this week, the expansions run $49.99/£34.99, $74.99/£59.99, $99.99/£79.99. The first price comes with the core game and the expansion, which is an issue for veteran players who already own the game and who want a less expensive expansion option without having to purchase the game again.

Existing players will have to pay the same price £34.99 for the expansion alone with no veteran perks. The only way to receive perks would to purchase the $80/£60 package which comes with an additional character slot, statue, the Revenant profession finisher, a Guild Hall decoration item and a Glider skin.

The $100/£80 option adds an additional 4000 Gems which are worth £42.50 real-money if purchased from the in-game store.

ArenaNet's communications boss Gaile Gray responded to player concerns on the forums, stating the team was listening to its player base and their issues with the price scheme will be shared with the team.

"We understand that there are many opinions and suggestions about the game versions and the pre-purchase program< said Gray. "We will continue to read your thoughts and thank you for sharing them." Thanks, Eurogamer.