Game Accessability through Chapters

Howdy all

I'm curious about what I can and can't do when I buy the 4th chapter.

It will be my first game from the series and my first account with anet. I know I can't "explore ascalon" or any of the missions in the other chapters, but particullary what about skills and AB?

If a skill was released in CH2, will I be able to buy it from a trainer in CH4? Is there any mechanism to keep me from fighting in AB, other than joining a guild?

Cheers

You will only be able to use skill from chapter 4 and core skills.

You will only be able to play the 2 classes they introduce in the 4th chapter and the 6 core classes (Warrior,ranger,monk,elementalist,necro,mesmer)

Alliance Battles is part of GuildWars Factions, so in order to play it you need to own Factions, seeing as you will be buying the 4th chapter , you will not be able to do Alliance Battles.

I give you a early welcome to GuildWars.

The Battle Isles are common to all chapter and provide the rest of the PvP action - random and team arenas, guild halls, heroes.

Note that chapter 4 hasn't even been announced by Anet so don't go preordering it or anything.

Why not start now with Nightfall?

Best thing to do is start now to learn the basic play mechanics. DeanBB is right, but there are several retailers that are offering Factions with Profecies at reduced cost if you buy them at the same time. If you get oth start with Profecies, it is easier to learn the skill and combat system and doesn't make you feel rushed.
And welcome to the world of Guild Wars.

Mega Mouse

I'm a previous player of GW, but sold out when the game became degenerative to my life.

I will buy the next chapter IF it has a ranger focus. The thing I miss most about this game is the heorin-like-addiction of a ranger in supieror terrain.

Thank you all for your knowledge, and hopefully, during a long summer break, I'll be hitting it up with you in an alliance battle.

CLOSED

What exactly would a "ranger focus" be? Can't you be an archer, trapper or beastmaster anywhere?

It will have a focus befitting any new professions, just as Factions and Nightfall have.