The Mike Abundo Effect

Two nights ago, I stood at the exact spot where my first Guild Wars character spawned almost three years ago. I was delighted to find new characters just keep on spawning at that exact same spot, ready to discover the game anew.

That’s why I’m delighted to hear that, as of today, Guild Wars has sold over five million units. Sure, it doesn’t have World of Warcraft’s ten million subscribers, but I’ve never been one to go with the crowd. Guild Wars’ highly modular gameplay lets even a busy guy like me play an online RPG. Congratulations to ArenaNet on serving gorgeously immersive experiences to millions of busy gamers.

Right after the Chinese New Year, Guild Wars players celebrate the Canthan New Year. My primary character hails from the Europe-inspired continent of Tyria, but he’s always ready to party on any continent. Here he is, wearing a lion mask and Asian-inspired Luxon armor, enjoying a fireworks-lit feast at Shing Jea.

To welcome the Year of the Rat, I got a miniature celestial rat. Here it is, third from left, displayed with some of my other miniatures.

From whimsical quests to rollerbeetle racing, check out some of the Canthan New Year 2008 festivities. Kung hei fat choi, everyone!