ArenaNet has revealed a whole range of new information in the lead up to the first big November update, which will see players fighting off a new creature type called "Karka" while defending the city of Lion Arch.

The Lost Shores, the first major update since launch, will be making its way to Guild Wars 2 players on November 16th (17th for Australia) and along with it a large amount of new content. Included in the first wave of events is a new species type called the Karka, which will begin their assault on Lion's Arch. Players will also find a new dungeon, a new sPvP map, introduction of Ascended gear, new recipes and more.

Big changes are coming to Tyria in November. From the historic Lost Shores event on November 16-18 to the endlessly entertaining Fractals of the Mists dungeon and a brand new PvP map, after this month, Tyria will never be the same!

Included among the update is a new set of gear, called Ascended. The new pieces of gear will also open up a new upgrade called Infusion, which can only be found in dungeons. ArenaNet has said that more details on the new gear and how to obtain it will come soon.

The Lost Shores update will also include the introduction of a new dungeon called Fractals of the Mists, which will pit players against a series of unique “fractal” mini-dungeons that get harder and harder as you progress, giving you unlimited levels of challenge. As you get further the rewards get better, including a new weapon set, new Ascended gear and a new back-slot item.

For those interested in the PvP side of things, ArenaNet will also be introducing a beta version of the new map called Temple of the Silent Storm. This brand new PvP map, set on a kodan iceberg, has a distinctive look and a more vertical layout than previous PvP maps.

The November update will also include new Black Lion Trading items themed for the Lost Shores event, new recipes, a new gathering resource and a whole new map to explore. Players will also find that the free trial weekend will be activated for this event, which opens up on Friday. Existing players have been given three invites to give out to friends and family, and will last until Monday.

Currently the event is set to begin on Saturday in the early morning (6AM AEST) for Australia, and will end on Monday early in the morning (6AM AEST). You can check out the updated event page for more details on what to expect, including a breakdown of each day and their timings for the weekend. Check out the latest trailer showcasing what you can expect from the Karka invasion, including a giant crab boss.