Guild Wars 2's upcoming Janthir Wilds expansion unveils a highly anticipated player housing system: Homesteads. This feature, launching August 20th, offers a unique take on player housing, providing a fully customizable instanced space with no competitive elements like auctions or plot limitations.

A recent preview by PC Gamer showcased Homesteads' impressive capabilities. Accessible early in the Janthir Wilds storyline, the system allows for unparalleled freedom in decoration placement, utilizing three-dimensional control to position over 300 initial decorations (with plans for 800+ by the expansion's conclusion). Players can freely arrange items, allowing for creative and unconventional displays.

Homesteads go beyond mere aesthetics. The instance includes daily resource nodes (mining, logging, farming), and players can even park their mounts, skiffs, and alt characters within the space, the latter receiving a resting buff. Dedicated displays for armor and weapons further enhance the personalization options. Acquisition of decorations will involve a new crafting system, in-game events, and the cash shop.

ArenaNet boasts Homesteads as the most player-friendly housing system in an MMORPG, and the initial preview strongly suggests this claim holds merit. The absence of competitive elements, combined with the extensive customization and convenience features, positions Homesteads as a significant addition to Guild Wars 2.