Can you avoid PvP, and how do you switch channel types?

You can explore in standard Peace channels without player attacks. Conflict/PvP channels allow players outside your party and guild to attack you. The developer describes this as a choice between channel types, rather than unavoidable open-world PvP.

Change channel type at a Nui Statue

Visit a Nui Statue to switch between the channel types. The PvP overview says switching has a cooldown, so do not rely on an immediate switch to escape a fight. It does not state a verified current cooldown duration.

The prelaunch update says parties stay together across Peace and Conflict channels and can send invitations across both. Joining the leader’s particular channel is a related party UI action, not a server transfer.

Rewards and exceptions need dates

The October PvP overview described a 10-15% bonus to monster EXP in PvP channels, with tuning still in progress. It also explained that monster kills account for only a small portion of open-world EXP. Treat that as a dated design statement, not a measured current bonus to all quest or exploration EXP.

The November 4 update disabled mutual attacks at the Pioneers’ Assembly Hall in the Conflict Channel. Do not infer that every location in every Conflict channel uses identical rules.

What this guide does not promise

Future plans discussed structured trade conflict, rankings and trophies. A development plan is not evidence that those rewards or trade-post systems are live. Check newer official notices before choosing PvP for a specific reward. Pick it for the combat experience you want, and use party coordination before entering.