500 years ago, a tyrannical Krytan king was slain by his own people, those who had suffered greatly during his reign of lunacy. It is said that this king’s body was chopped into pieces, and his spirit was banished to the Underworld, but that he can return to the mortal realm for just one day a year: on Halloween.

Of course, that’s just an old folktale. Isn’t it?

It’s been 250 years since the last alleged sighting of Mad King Thorn’s spirit, and today, Halloween is safely celebrated by children (and merchants) all across Tyria.

But! Strange energies are rising under the autumn moon. Is there perhaps some truth to the old stories? Do you dare to find out what’s really going on?

Shadow of the Mad King

Runs from October 22 until November 1* in four frightful acts:

Act 1: Begins October 22—Tricks and Treats

Halloween is here! The people of Lion’s Arch and beyond have begun celebrating the week-long holiday with candy, costumes, decorations, and of course, the traditional jokesters dressed up in Mad King garb. Despite the festivities and fun, there are a vocal few who claim that Mad King Thorn will return on the 500th anniversary of his death.

Brand New Events – The scholars of the Durmand Priory are concerned by odd energy fluctuations and eerie Halloween phenomena. Help them delve into the history and mystery of the Mad King in a series of all-new events.

Haunted Doors – What’s the secret of the strange doors that have appeared across Tyria? If you’ve got the nerve, knock on one of these Halloween portals and see what answers...