Inven Global

On Sunday, September 13, a new title previously known as Classic+, "World of Warcraft: Forever" (hereinafter Forever), was unveiled at BlizzCon. Forever is scheduled to release on November 4, featuring an independent narrative separate from the original World of Warcraft (hereinafter WoW) story. Here is a detailed summary of how Forever will be released, as revealed during the "World of Warcraft: The Journey Ahead" presentation.

Forever is a project developed with the goal of ensuring Azeroth is not treated merely as a stepping stone to move on to the next story. New storylines that step outside Azeroth—such as Outland or Draenor—will not appear; instead, the story will unfold centered on nostalgic zones like the Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor.

Forever focuses on immersive worldbuilding centered around Azeroth rather than character-driven epic narratives. The developers stated that they want leveling to be a process of building each player's individual story, not just a stepping stone. To this end, flying mounts and level scaling will not be added, and by permanently maintaining the level 60 cap, the value of players' gear and levels will be preserved long-term.

To offer an experience distinct from traditional Classic, areas that previously held minor roles will also be revisited. In this presentation, it was revealed that 4 new zones, 9 new dungeons, 2 new raids, and over 1,000 new quests will be added.

In Forever, depth will be added to Azeroth by introducing numerous zones that were not explored in detail in the original game, including Mount Hyjal, Shen'dralar, Riverglade, and Zephras Isle.

Mount Hyjal, which many players have waited over 20 years to explore, will showcase the mountain recovering after Archimonde's defeat and the Wild Gods affected by it. It serves as Forever's endgame leveling zone, connecting directly into a new raid.

Shen'dralar is an ancient ruin located between Mulgore and Desolace, where players can experience the story of the Shen'dralar race alongside content similar to Razorfen Kraul.

Riverglade is a new leveling zone located on the eastern coast of the Eastern Kingdoms, inspired by early Warcraft games. Nearby lie ogre encampments, goblin trade routes, and the Scarlet Monastery. Numerous quests will take place in this area as Orcs, Humans, Ogres, and Goblins clash.

Zephras Isle is an entirely new zone unavailable in original Classic. It is inhabited by the Skyborn, an ancient Highborne Night Elf subrace that exiled themselves to Skywall, the domain of Al'Akir the Windlord. As the wind elementals that protected Zephras Isle vanish, the Zephras civilization falls into crisis. Zephras Isle will detail ancient structures beginning to crumble and the growing fractures among the Skyborn.

The Skyborn appearing on Zephras Isle will be added as a new playable race. Much like Pandaren in modern WoW, the Skyborn can choose either faction. By default, they can play as Warrior, Hunter, Rogue, and Druid. Additionally, Alliance Skyborn can choose Mage, while Horde Skyborn can choose Shaman.

The Skyborn will feature new racial traits, customization options, voice lines, and dances. The developers highlighted the Skyborn as the ideal representation of Forever's direction, emphasizing that providing fresh experiences without compromising immersion in the existing lore is Forever's true identity.

A large number of new dungeons tailored to each faction will also be added. A total of 9 new dungeons are scheduled, including Dalaran after its arcane shield vanishes, Lordaeron overrun by necromancers, Alcaz Island Prison, and a Furbolg city. Each dungeon is designed for level brackets ranging from level 13 to level 60, offering new experiences and rewards previously unseen.

Raids are also being introduced. "Barrow Deeps" is a new 10-player raid set in a region sacred to the Night Elves. It is a deep cavern where dangerous criminals are imprisoned, and it is said that a notorious Demon Hunter is locked away here as well.

Hyjal Summit will also debut as a new raid. Dissatisfied with Malfurion Stormrage giving up the Night Elves' immortality to defeat Archimonde, an unknown figure is siphoning energy around Mount Hyjal. Hyjal Summit will feature as a 20-player raid. Players can earn new Legendary equipment and Tier sets from both raids.

First and foremost, talents are being revamped. Rather than simple numerical tweaks, extensive improvements are being made so that a class feels entirely distinct depending on where talent points are invested.

Items and racial traits are also undergoing changes. A significant number of new items themed around specific dungeons will be added to enhance the reward experience, and racial traits will be improved to better fit each race's identity and boost immersion.

Rather than an overhaul, graphics improvements focus on maximizing the existing experience to preserve nostalgia and gameplay feeling. While fine objects and textures remain unchanged, efforts are concentrated on enhancing environmental effects such as lighting and water.

Transmogrification has always been a debated topic among Classic players. To satisfy both sides, Forever introduces transmogrification while allowing individual players to toggle it on or off in their settings. If a player disables transmogrification, their client will display equipment in its original appearance regardless of other players' transmog settings.

Beta testing begins on September 17, allowing players to level up to level 30. Ahead of launch, name reservation and character creation will open on October 27, leading to the official launch on November 4.

On December 9, a total of 3 raids will open—2 new raids plus Onyxia's Lair—and a WoW: Forever Hardcore server will open during the winter.

In Spring 2027, 2 new raids, 2 new dungeons, and additional quests and zones will be added. Finally, in Summer 2027, a major update featuring an all-new raid and content will arrive.