ArenaNet announces the promised free trial for Guild Wars 2 kicks off today, coinciding with the release of a new Heroic Edition of the game:

BRIGHTON, UK – 23 AUGUST, 2013: NCSOFT® and ArenaNet™, developer of the smash hit Guild Wars 2, commemorates a record-breaking first year with a free trial of their critically acclaimed game on 23-25 August, 2013. The Seattle-area studio has also released the Guild Wars 2 Heroic Edition, which includes the base game with the Heroic Pack, which is loaded with useful digital items for new players.

The free trial, which is open to all players in Europe and North America, starts 09:01 CEST (08:01 BST) on 23 August, 2013 and ends at 07:59 BST on 26 August, 2013. Players can register for their free trial accounts at https://register.guildwars2.com/trial.

The Guild Wars 2 Heroic Edition includes the award-winning MMORPG, which IGN.com called “one of the best MMOs ever made,” as well as the Heroic Pack, which includes a number of digital items ideal for new players:

• One Legacy Armour – Players can adventure in style with this classic armour
• 18-slot Mithril Box – This huge storage box will increase loot carrying capacity
• 10 Experience Boosters – With these boosters, players can level up faster

The Guild Wars 2 Heroic Edition is available for £34.99 / €39.99.