Which account should I start with?
ArenaNet Account vs Steam Account
Choose ArenaNet for official-store and authorized-retailer offers and gem cards, or Steam for its wallet and library. If you already have characters, continue with that account.
You play the same game together
ArenaNet and Steam accounts play on the same servers with the same players. Content, leveling, parties, and the Trading Post work the same way. The differences are in purchases and customer support.
Compare the accounts
| Feature | ArenaNet account | Steam account |
|---|---|---|
| In-game content | Same | Same |
| Play with people on the other platform | Yes | Yes |
| Where to buy expansions | Official store or ArenaNet expansion codes from authorized retailers | Steam store only |
| Redeem gem cards | Yes (gem cards from authorized retailers) | No |
| ArenaNet two-factor authentication | Yes | No (use Steam two-factor authentication) |
| Customer support | ArenaNet support | Steam or ArenaNet, depending on the issue |
| Link a Guild Wars account | Yes (Hall of Monuments rewards) | Only a Guild Wars account created through Steam |
| Use your Steam wallet | No | Yes |
| Steam playtime tracking | Requires separate setup | Automatic |
| Switch between account types | ⚠ Accounts cannot be linked or merged. Switching account types means starting over. | |
Buy expansions for the account you play on. For an ArenaNet account, buy an ArenaNet code from the official store or an authorized retailer. For a Steam account, buy through Steam. An official-store code will not work on a Steam account, even if it is cheaper. Characters and purchases from the two accounts cannot be merged.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an ArenaNet account after installing through Steam?
Yes. In your Steam library, open Guild Wars 2 → Properties → General → Launch Options and enter -provider Portal. You can then sign in with an ArenaNet account. This launches the Steam-installed game with your existing ArenaNet account. Buy ArenaNet expansions from the official store or an authorized retailer.
I started on Steam. Should I switch now?
If you have barely played, starting over may be worth considering. If you have already played for dozens of hours or bought content, keep your Steam account. The in-game experience is the same on either platform.
Are expansions more expensive on Steam?
Before creating an account, compare the total price for the same content in your region, including currency conversion and taxes. Check official-store bundles, authorized-retailer offers, and Steam prices. If you already have an account, buy content for that platform.