Player versus environment

Player versus Environment, or PvE, is a gameplay distinction, in contrast with Player versus Player, or PvP, gameplay.

Player versus Environment is a type of gameplay common to RPGs in general. This is where the character engages in combat with computerized opponents. In Guild Wars, PvE content is only available to 'roleplay' characters. In PvE gameplay, your primary purpose (aside from fun, obviously) is to grow your character. This growth is achieved through the gaining of experience points, either through quests or the slaying of enemies. Experience points can also be gained by roleplaying characters in PvP combat, where your character will gain experience for (a) winning a match and (b) killing an opponent.

The PvE modes co-operative "modes" are usually roughly split into the following:


 * Missions
 * The Underworld (often abbreviated to UW)
 * Fissure of Woe (often abbreviated to FoW)
 * Grinding (the practice of attacking groups of high-level enemies in order to gain experience)
 * Running (the practice of going across difficult areas with weaker players in order to get them warp points)
 * Farming (the practice of repeatedly clearing an area in order to get gold/items)