MMORPG.COM: In the E3 demo event we saw several types of event areas, but one that was missing was a large hunting area for teams (similar to the solo areas). Will we see the inclusion of more traditional MMORPG hunting areas (e.g. expansive, non-linear areas populated with mobs and NPCs)? What other types of areas (aside from those presented in the E3 demo) can players expect to see?

ArenaNet: It's interesting that you would ask that. As you can imagine, we received a lot of feedback as a result of the E3 for Everyone Demo Event. One of the first changes that occurred as a result of that player input was a change in those large solo areas you mention. So now, instead of going into the areas alone, you can form a party in town and then venture into those extensive areas as a group. At present, you can access those areas with up to 8 players. Sometimes, the larger party size is a really good thing, because there are a few areas that definitely need all the firepower and the strategic thinking that an 8-player team can bring. I'm thinking of one particular area where you look over a rise and see a veritable sea of unfriendly faces. I've died there many a time, but oh, wow, what a rush when you successfully beat back the Charr hordes!

Other areas of the region are a bit less intense, so they are a good place to get familiar with the interface and learn the game controls while still acquiring a little in the way of experience points, items or gold. The one question I need to ask about these areas is, "What do we call them, now?" I mean, "The Areas Formerly Known as Solo" is a bit of a mouthful.