Hey there, fellow adventurers! Indigo, the Narrative Lead for Guild Wars 2®: Janthir Wilds™, and Chloë, the Story Design Lead, here to give you an exciting preview into the narrative landscape of the upcoming expansion. Get ready to delve deep into a region brimming with ancient secrets and current conflicts as we journey into the long-awaited lands of Janthir. We’re picking up the threads directly from Guild Wars 2: Secrets of the Obscure™, so prepare for a seamless story continuation.
Let’s embark on this journey, but be warned: light spoilers ahead! We’ll be offering tantalizing glimpses into the region and the unfolding events at the expansion’s start. If you prefer to experience everything fresh, perhaps save this read for later!
A serene wilderness scene with two deer peacefully drinking from a clear stream, embodying the untouched beauty of Janthir.From Secrets of the Obscure to Janthir Wilds: Bridging the Narrative Gap
To truly appreciate what awaits in Janthir Wilds, let’s cast our minds back to the events of last year. The culmination of the dragon cycle left Tyria in uncharted waters, uncertain of the repercussions. Guild Wars 2: Secrets of the Obscure unveiled the immediate aftermath: Soo-Won’s demise unleashed a potent wave of magical instability, disrupting magical forces and barriers across Tyria. Aurene, in her wisdom, swiftly stepped in to become the new magical filter, restoring balance, yet the full implications of this power transfer are still unfolding.
The narrative of Secrets of the Obscure thrust the Commander into unfamiliar territories right from the start. We discovered the World Spire, a formidable conduit crafted by the enigmatic wizard Isgarren, had fractured under the magical shockwave. This spire, a crucial safeguard against inter-dimensional threats, became vulnerable, allowing incursions from a parallel realm. Thus began the Commander’s involvement in the ancient conflict between the Astral Ward and the Kryptis.
A hauntingly beautiful marsh landscape featuring the colossal skeleton of a fallen creature resting on rugged rocks, hinting at the ancient battles fought in Janthir.Throughout Guild Wars 2: Secrets of the Obscure, the Commander played a pivotal role in supporting the Astral Ward, rescuing the Wizard’s Court, and ultimately defeating the malevolent Kryptis king, Eparch. While victory against the Kryptis was achieved, numerous questions linger about our new wizardly allies. The Astral Ward has proven to be a valuable force for good, yet their motives and methods remain partially shrouded in mystery—especially concerning their enigmatic leader, Isgarren. Why their delayed intervention? And what about the fractal incidents? These are threads we’ll continue to unravel.
Shifting our focus to the present, while the Commander—now the Wayfinder—was locked in combat with Eparch in Nayos, the Kryptis threat did not escape the notice of Tyria’s nations. In fact, it spurred them to action, initiating dialogues and alliances. As Guild Wars 2: Janthir Wilds begins, the Commander receives an invitation to the inaugural meeting of the Tyrian Alliance. This alliance has strong opinions regarding the recent demonic incursions. After enduring so much, Tyria’s tolerance for further destruction is wearing thin.
While details of the Tyrian Alliance’s inner workings and notable attendees are being kept under wraps for now, this alliance serves a dual purpose. It not only provides the player with a new mission but also showcases Tyria’s evolving landscape beyond the immediate storyline. What’s happening in the wider world? How is Tyria progressing while we are engaged in our adventures?
Queen Jennah and Countess Anise standing formally before a podium, representing the political discussions and alliances forming within Tyria.Exploring the Diverse Janthir Region
A key outcome of the Tyrian Alliance’s first assembly will dispatch the Commander and a select team of allies into the perilous Janthir region. Their initial destination lies north of Divinity’s Reach, across the Krytan border. The primary objective: to establish diplomatic relations with a secluded faction of kodan. These lowland kodan, initially cautious, eventually welcome us into their settlement. We will immerse ourselves in their unique culture as we explore the Lowland Shore, a region we’ll detail further shortly!
As the narrative progresses, we’ll venture deeper into Janthir, reaching the isles themselves. This bay area carries a weighty history—marked by violence and somber tales. Until now, we’ve only skirted its edges. We know that Saul and his nascent White Mantle sought something within these isles, departing with the Eye of Janthir. Other significant figures have also ventured into this mysterious region. Our arrival at the first island, Janthir Syntri, marks the beginning of uncovering the tragic narrative behind the ruined village of Gavril.
But before we delve further into the isles’ mysteries, it’s crucial to mention: bears.
A robust lowland kodan standing proudly in a circular arena, showcasing their strength and connection to the wild.The Enigmatic Lowland Kodan of Janthir
One of the most compelling aspects of Janthir Wilds is the introduction of the lowland kodan, a distinct faction who have inhabited Janthir for generations. Despite the region’s inherent dangers and harsh environment, they are exceptional survivalists, having cultivated a comfortable and even inviting lifestyle within these lands. From a young age, all lowland kodan are trained in combat and survival skills. The Wayfinder will spend considerable time in Janthir learning from and alongside the lowlanders, gaining invaluable knowledge from their unique perspective.
Isolated from their northern kodan kin for centuries and adapted to a vastly different environment, the lowland kodan exhibit notable differences from their more familiar counterparts. Perhaps the most significant divergence lies in their spiritual beliefs. Unlike other kodan who venerate Koda’s will and balance, the lowland kodan revere the environment itself, emphasizing their relationship with it and their responsibility as stewards of the land. Rather than seeing themselves as divinely chosen protectors, lowlanders act from a sense of duty to maintain ecological equilibrium in a challenging environment where exploitation is easier than preservation and survival is a constant struggle.
These fundamental differences permeate other facets of their society. Traditional kodan leadership is typically shared between a Voice, a spiritual conduit of Koda, and a Claw, a physical protector. However, lowland kodan are led solely by a Claw, a societal structure that stretches back into their distant past. This Claw’s authority is tempered by a council representing key village roles, providing collective wisdom and guidance.
As the Wayfinder deepens their relationship with the lowland kodan and earns their trust, we will gain deeper insights into their lives and their long history as inhabitants of Janthir.
A cozy campfire scene with two kodan companions relaxing alongside their loyal warclaw pet, illustrating the warmth and community within lowland kodan society.Venturing North into the Janthir Wilds
Tyria stands on the verge of a new epoch. Nations are recognizing the necessity of global cooperation and alliance. The seeds of this unity were sown under the shadow of the Elder Dragons, but the need for collaboration persists even in their absence. As new threats emerge, having allies is more critical than ever. And where better to begin than with neighbors? The lowland kodan could prove to be invaluable allies… if we can earn their trust and persuade them to join the broader Tyrian dialogue.
We are incredibly excited to offer these first glimpses into the narrative tapestry of Guild Wars 2: Janthir Wilds! There is a wealth of established lore and history to explore and build upon with fresh narratives and characters. We eagerly anticipate your journey into Janthir to experience it all firsthand!
A vibrant yellow landscape dotted with acid pools and plumes of toxic steam, showcasing the perilous and visually striking environments of Janthir.Pre-purchasing any edition of Guild Wars 2: Janthir Wilds before launch grants you the “Homesteader” title, the Whispering Serpents Pauldrons skin, and a Serpent’s Wrath weapon skin box.
For comprehensive details on the Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate editions, visit the official store page.
