gw2 how to get ascended gear: A Journey Through Time and Space

Guild Wars 2 (GW2) is a game that offers a plethora of activities, from exploring vast landscapes to engaging in intense PvP battles. One of the most sought-after achievements in the game is obtaining Ascended Gear, the highest tier of equipment available. This guide will delve into the various methods of acquiring Ascended Gear, while also touching on some whimsical and unrelated topics to keep the journey interesting.

Understanding Ascended Gear

Before diving into the methods of obtaining Ascended Gear, it’s essential to understand what it is and why it’s so valuable. Ascended Gear is the highest tier of equipment in GW2, offering superior stats and the ability to be infused with Agony Resistance, which is crucial for high-level Fractals of the Mists.

Stats and Benefits

Superior Stats: Ascended Gear provides higher base stats compared to Exotic Gear, making it essential for endgame content.
Agony Resistance: This unique stat is necessary for surviving in higher-tier Fractals, where Agony damage can quickly overwhelm unprepared players.
Infusion Slots: Ascended Gear comes with infusion slots, allowing players to further customize their stats and resistances.

Methods to Obtain Ascended Gear

There are several ways to acquire Ascended Gear in GW2, each with its own set of challenges and requirements. Below, we’ll explore the most common methods.

1. Crafting

Crafting is one of the most straightforward ways to obtain Ascended Gear. However, it requires a significant investment of time and resources.

Required Disciplines

Armorsmithing: For heavy armor.
Leatherworking: For medium armor.
Tailoring: For light armor.
Weaponsmithing: For weapons.
Huntsman: For ranged weapons.
Artificer: For magical weapons.

Materials Needed

Ascended Materials: Such as Damask, Elonian Leather, and Deldrimor Steel.
Crafting Recipes: Purchased from Master Craftsmen or obtained through achievements.
Time-Gated Materials: Some materials, like Lump of Mithrillium, are time-gated, meaning you can only craft a limited amount per day.

2. Fractals of the Mists

Fractals are a series of instanced dungeons that increase in difficulty as you progress. They are a primary source of Ascended Gear.

Fractal Relics

Fractal Relics: Earned by completing Fractals, these can be exchanged for Ascended Gear at the Fractal Reliquary.
Pristine Fractal Relics: A more valuable version of Fractal Relics, obtained from daily Fractal achievements.

Fractal Encryptions

Fractal Encryptions: These can drop from Fractal bosses and contain various rewards, including Ascended Gear.

3. Raids

Raids are high-difficulty, 10-player instanced content that offers some of the best rewards in the game, including Ascended Gear.

Raid Currency

Magnetite Shards: Earned by completing raid encounters, these can be exchanged for Ascended Gear at raid vendors.
Gaeting Crystals: A more valuable currency obtained from weekly raid achievements.

Raid Boss Drops

Direct Drops: Some raid bosses have a chance to drop Ascended Gear directly.

4. PvP and WvW

For those who prefer player-versus-player content, there are ways to obtain Ascended Gear through PvP and World vs. World (WvW).

PvP Reward Tracks

Reward Tracks: Completing PvP matches progresses you along reward tracks, some of which offer Ascended Gear as a reward.

WvW Skirmish Tickets

Skirmish Tickets: Earned by participating in WvW, these can be exchanged for Ascended Gear at WvW vendors.

5. Achievements and Collections

Some achievements and collections reward Ascended Gear upon completion.

Legendary Collections

Legendary Precursor Collections: These often reward Ascended Gear as part of the journey to crafting a Legendary weapon.

Special Event Achievements

Festival Achievements: Certain in-game festivals have achievements that reward Ascended Gear.

Whimsical Detours

While the pursuit of Ascended Gear is a serious endeavor, it’s essential to take breaks and enjoy the lighter side of Tyria. Here are some unrelated but entertaining topics to ponder:

The Mystery of the Quaggan

Quaggans are adorable, frog-like creatures found throughout Tyria. But have you ever wondered why they speak in such a peculiar manner? Some say it’s a form of ancient magic, while others believe it’s just their way of staying cheerful in a dangerous world.

The Great Debate: Charr vs. Asura

The Charr and Asura are two of the most technologically advanced races in Tyria. But which is truly superior? The Charr’s brute strength and military prowess, or the Asura’s intellect and magical innovations? The debate rages on in taverns across the land.

The Legend of the Hidden Treasure

Rumors persist of a hidden treasure buried deep within the Heart of Maguuma. Some say it’s a hoard of Ascended Gear, while others believe it’s a map to another world. Whatever the truth, adventurers continue to search for clues, hoping to strike it rich.

Conclusion

Obtaining Ascended Gear in GW2 is a challenging but rewarding journey. Whether you choose to craft, delve into Fractals, conquer raids, or engage in PvP, the path to Ascended Gear is filled with opportunities for growth and adventure. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to enjoy the whimsical and mysterious aspects of Tyria that make GW2 such a unique and enchanting world.

Q: Can I upgrade Exotic Gear to Ascended Gear? A: No, Exotic Gear cannot be upgraded to Ascended Gear. You must obtain Ascended Gear through crafting, drops, or other methods mentioned above.

Q: Is Ascended Gear necessary for all content in GW2? A: While Ascended Gear is not required for all content, it is highly recommended for high-level Fractals and raids due to its superior stats and Agony Resistance.

Q: How long does it take to craft a full set of Ascended Gear? A: The time required depends on your access to materials and crafting disciplines. It can take several weeks to gather the necessary resources and complete the crafting process.

Q: Can I trade or sell Ascended Gear? A: No, Ascended Gear is account-bound and cannot be traded or sold to other players.

Q: Are there any shortcuts to obtaining Ascended Gear? A: While there are no true shortcuts, participating in high-reward activities like raids and high-tier Fractals can speed up the process compared to crafting.

Q: What is the difference between Ascended and Legendary Gear? A: Legendary Gear has the same stats as Ascended Gear but offers additional cosmetic benefits and the ability to swap stats freely. However, Legendary Gear is much more challenging to obtain.