Three things to do this stress test

The second Guild Wars 2 stress test is scheduled for Wednesday, June 27, from 10 am to 2 pm PDT (GMT-7) and we’ve put together a short list of ideas for you to make the most out of the four hours in Tyria.

While many of you may not be able to participate due to school or work, ArenaNet has indicated on Twitter that they’re targeting their European customers this time.

So if you’re one of the lucky thousands, here are some things you can do, besides more leveling.

1. Join an Ascalon Catacombs run

If you’ve made it to level 30 and above, gather up four companions and find out what’s happening in the old Ascalonian Catacombs!

Already affectionately known as AC30, the underground crypt is the first of eight dungeons to be included in GW2 on launch day.

Some general tips from those who’ve explored the depths of AC30, without spoiling too much:

- Expect traps and puzzles
- Expect unpredictable AI
- Watch where you’re dodging; you can fall to your death!

Check out more detailed tips from Xerelin here.

For those who are level 35 and have cleared the story mode of the dungeon, you can attempt AC35 in its harder explorable mode.

2. Test out other builds and utility skills

This may seem like an obvious thing to do, but I think many of us are so caught up with completing personal and heart quests that we miss out on opportunities for understanding our professions better.

Hop into the Mists and all your profession’s traits and skills will be made available. It’s almost like stepping into a toy store with an unlimited expense account.

Go with the default build, or make your own, and jump into some structured PvP to test your toys out. The sPvP action will quickly reveal the strengths and weaknesses of your build and playstyle.

If sPvP is too frenetic for you, you can always hop over to the other PvP mode: WvW. Unlike sPvP, you’ll only have access to the skills and traits that you’ve actually earned, but your stats and health pool will be adjusted to the level 80 equivalent.

Here’s a particularly wicked example on how to spend your time in WvW: Meet The Ballister

3. Participate in the Final Event (again!)

If you missed the awe-inspiring sight of a massive dragon flying in the clouds at the end of the last beta weekend event, here’s your chance to experience it!

In the last hour or so before the end of the stress test, head to the Plains of Ashford, basically the charr starting zone. If you have no clue how to get there, check out tip 6 of our earlier guide here. Plains of Ashford is just outside the charr city of Black Citadel.

Don’t forget to take lots of screenshots and videos!

TH

OK, lvl 30 will be hard to get... but for the rest you could count me in ;-)

i really want to test out traits. Want a good defending but a bit over decent damage and ok vitality/healing and a bit alright with illusions (Greatsword/Staff)