Just as a headsup, if anyone is still thinking of getting this.
It appears they are just pulling one of the biggest bait and switches in game design history, See:
http://www.guildwars2guru.com/topic/74916-ascended-items/ for an overview.
Synopsis: 3 months after release we are seeing a new gear tier with better stats and lots of grind attached - which simply does not compute given their advertised design philosophy and "MMO Manifesto". GW2 community is not amused.
Just sad how a company with a 7+ year track record of sticking to its guns - no matter what - goes ahead and pi**es it all away 3 months after releasing the long awaited sequel.
Personally... I'll keep an eye on it to see how the whole mess turns out, but looks like I've been had - big time lol.
Anyone else may proceed to enjoy what appears to be shaping up to be one of the biggest flamefests in gaming history. - Make sure to bring popcorn.
The thread on their official forums is up to 10.000 posts and 200 pages now.