ArenaNet is pushing ahead with plans for a new PvP mode in Guild Wars 2, with the help of the community. Push is the name of the new 5v5 PvP mode, and the team has a stream to reveal more and a beta test next week.
Push consists of a 5v5 match where two teams try to push an objective into the enemy base and not let the other side push it into yours. These simple mechanics are intentional, since the team was looking to offer something less layered and with fewer objectives than Conquest. They want challenge and fun competition, but in a way that's more accessible to the full range of PVP experience–from totally new to seasoned veterans.
The part about developing the new PvP mode with the community holds true, since they do have a prototype map, but everyone who's interested will get their chance to weigh in. There will be a special stream tomorrow on the Guild Wars 2 Twitch channel at noon Pacific time. The team will play Push live on stream and show us what it's all about.
From September 10th through September 23rd, there will be a beta test event featuring Push. During that time, this mode replaces ranked queue and the mini season 2 v2 reward system will be in place.
Reasons for working on the new mode also follow the reception of Stronghold mode, which gets activity, but only about 10% of unranked PvP matches in total this year. Since that rate is so low, they are offering this early enough in development that there will be a lot of unfinished assets, but they want to make sure that it's worth putting the time and the work to polish it up and attracts enough play.
This is also why feedback is so important, so they're asking for that following these reveals. What you liked, didn't like, and what you think could be improved upon all matter. Since the map is a prototype, is it doing its job? You'll have a chance to weigh in very soon.
