Guild Wars 2 ‘Shadow of the Mad King’ Halloween update coming October 22

ArenaNet has outlined the plans for the first major Guild Wars 2 content update. Called "Shadow of the Mad King", this Hallowed-themed patch contains a number of new features including new content to explore and a week-long Halloween event.

Halloween has a long history in Tyria, and in times past was always marked by the spirit of Mad King Thorn cavorting among the people unleashing his own brand of insanity. However, it’s been over 250 years since he was last seen, and for most people he is merely a figure of folklore. Despite this, rumors persist among the populace that something wicked this way comes.  

Starting October 22, when barriers between the realms are weakest, players can go on an "epic adventure" that will span over four acts. Tyria will be transformed with decorations, new mini-games, new dynamic events, and more.

Additionally, the Black Lion Trading Company will be stocked with all new items including Halloween costumes and new transforms that will allow you to play Costume Brawl with other costumed players. Paid tournaments will be available for competitive, five-person teams. These require tickets to enter and give better prizes than normal tournaments. Qualifier points will be allotted to participating teams that will allow them to compete in larger tournaments in the future. Tournament tickets can be earned by winning normal tournaments or purchased from the Gem Store.

"The world continues to evolve with new events, jumping puzzles, bosses, mini-dungeons, and achievements appearing across a variety of maps," ArenaNet said.

The Shadow of the Mad King Halloween update is set to go live on October 22 and conclude on October 31.