Third-party programs are tools or utilities that interact with the game, but which have been developed by an individual or group other than ArenaNet. These tools range from informational overlays to prohibited cheat programs. All players must agree to and follow the policies regarding the use of such programs as outlined in the Guild Wars 2 User Agreement, the Guild Wars 2 Rules of Conduct, and the Conduct Breaches and Outcomes documents.
Policy
In general, our policy is as follows:
We do not permit the use of any program that gives one player an unintended, unnatural, or unfair advantage over another player. This includes programs that alter game balance in favor of one player over another, automate actions within the game, promote unattended gameplay, or have an adverse effect on other players.
The best way for you to assess whether a specific third-party program could have any impact on another player is to ask:
- "Does this program allow someone to play faster, better, longer, or more accurately than someone who doesn't use the program?"
- "Does this program allow someone to 'play' when he/she is not at the computer?"
- "Does this program allow the user to gain unnatural or undeserved rewards?"
If the answer to any of these questions is "yes" or even "maybe," then we strongly recommend that you do not use the program. Doing so not only raises the risk that your Guild Wars or Guild Wars 2 account may be accessed by a malicious third party, but it can lead to the suspension or termination of your account for violating the Guild Wars 2 Rules of Conduct.
Using Third-Party Programs
With that said, we are aware that some utilities help players without affecting others; that is, they do not give one player an advantage over another. While, in general, we will not take action on an account for the use of such a utility program or modification, action is subject to ArenaNet's discretion. You use any third-party program at your own risk.
Here are a few best practices to keep in mind if you are considering the use of a third-party tool:
- Customer Support cannot offer support if a third-party modification breaks, interferes with, or prevents you from playing Guild Wars or Guild Wars 2. If a third-party program has any impact on your game or your computer, it is solely your responsibility to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
- If you choose to use what you believe to be a "benign" program—one that does not give an advantage to the user—be sure to get it from a legitimate source to protect yourself from the possible addition of cheats or key-loggers.
- ArenaNet reserves the right to action an account for using any third-party modification, as is outlined by the Guild Wars 2 User Agreement, the Guild Wars 2 Rules of Conduct, and the Conduct Breaches and Outcomes policies.
Note: ArenaNet does not review, approve, or endorse any third-party program. Each use of such a program is made at the account holder’s own risk.