If I had to name the videogame genre in which it’s easiest to fall back on clichés, it would be the fantasy MMORPG. Not only is fantasy saturated across all media, but it must be especially tempting to avoid creative risks when pursuing a mass audience, as most MMOs do. Guild Wars 2, though, has achieved the enviable feat of standing out in a genre full of identikit castles and formulaic tropes. In this, its art is crucial. 

With its unique takes on fantasy tropes, generous content model and of course, stunning art, Guild Wars 2 stands out as one of the best MMOs on PC.

Thus the retirement of art director Daniel Dociu, who served in that role since 2003 when the original Guild Wars was yet early in development, is a Big Deal. Stepping into his shoes is his son Horia, and we’ve been speaking with him.

Playing jazz with shoulder pads