World of Warcraft
News, coverage and analysis tracking World of Warcraft across the outlets.
Latest coverage
WoW Factor: Mike Ybarra is blaming Ion Hazzikostas for actually getting better at his job
Former Blizzard executive Mike Ybarra has criticized current World of Warcraft Game Director Ion Hazzikostas's leadership, suggesting the game has declined under his direction. The author argues that Hazzikostas has actually shown growth and made positive design changes, shifting focus beyond just raiding to include more player-friendly content like housing. The article contends that Ybarra's criticisms are misplaced and reflect a personal preference for past game states rather than the actual health of World of Warcraft.
Why Gaming Friends Fade: The Science Behind Loss
This analysis explores the scientific reasons behind the loss of friendships, particularly those formed through gaming, during adulthood. It highlights research indicating that adult friendships naturally decay without consistent interaction and that life-stage pressures like parenthood significantly reduce social time. The article emphasizes that online friendships are genuine and provide crucial social support, but are also vulnerable to dissolution, leading to loneliness which is now considered a public health crisis with serious health implications.
World of Warcraft begins testing and teasing Midnight: Revelations’ raid, quests, and UI QOL
Blizzard Entertainment has begun detailing the upcoming 'Midnight: Revelations' update for World of Warcraft, which will include a new single-boss raid called Sporefall and the return of Turbulent Timeways with new Dragonflight dungeons. The update also introduces new void assault locations, a new mechanic called Omnium Folio, troll-themed quest arcs, and significant quality-of-life improvements to raid frames and damage meters.
A treehouse bundle in WoW costs a whopping $75, and while I know exactly who Blizzard's made it for, that…
The article discusses the high cost of microtransactions for player housing in World of Warcraft, specifically a $75 treehouse bundle. While acknowledging that some decor is available through gameplay, the author questions the pricing strategy for cosmetic items, suggesting it may alienate average players.
World of Warcraft's new housing bundle costs $75, and the timing couldn't have been worse
Blizzard Entertainment has released a new $75 housing bundle for World of Warcraft's latest expansion, Midnight, amidst player frustration over recent buggy updates and technical issues with the player housing feature. The bundle, which includes cosmetic items purchasable with a premium currency, has drawn criticism for its high price and poor timing, especially as some players experienced the housing system being disabled shortly after launch. This release has further fueled concerns about the accelerated content schedule impacting game quality.
Elder Scrolls Online vet hates when people call the MMO a "WoW clone" since "you're not going to have fun at all" if you play it like Blizzard's game
Former The Elder Scrolls Online director Matt Firor expressed frustration with comparisons of ESO to World of Warcraft, stating that approaching the game like a 'WoW clone' leads to a poor experience. Firor emphasized that while both are MMORPGs, ESO's systems are fundamentally different from WoW's, and players should engage with it as an Elder Scrolls title to enjoy its strengths, particularly its story.
World Of Warcraft Just Got Its Most Expensive Housing Microtransactions Yet
Blizzard Entertainment has introduced its most expensive housing microtransactions to World of Warcraft, with new exterior bundles priced at $40 and $75. This follows previous controversial pricing for housing items, which Blizzard initially promised would be inexpensive and largely obtainable in-game. The high cost of these new exteriors is particularly criticized given the limited in-game options currently available to players.
Vague Patch Notes: Stories in MMOs have always been here
This opinion piece argues that storytelling in MMORPGs is not a new phenomenon, citing examples from Ultima Online, World of Warcraft, and Guild Wars. While the presentation and execution of narratives have evolved, the core concept of integrating stories into MMOs has been present since the genre's inception. The author highlights how developers have consistently grappled with balancing overarching narratives and player-driven adventures.
Diskutera – Ditt drömspel från Blizzard
This article invites readers to discuss their dream game from Blizzard Entertainment, considering options like a sequel, remake, or a completely new IP. It highlights Blizzard's popular franchises such as World of Warcraft, Diablo, Starcraft, and Warcraft, acknowledging the strong desire for a new hit title from the developer.
The Daily Grind: Have you ever felt like an MMO announced an update too far in advance?
This article discusses the potential downsides of MMORPGs announcing future expansion plans too far in advance, using World of Warcraft's Worldsoul Saga as an example. It explores how early announcements can lead to player disappointment and boredom before content is released.
Quiz – Diablo! Warcraft! Starcraft! Vad kan du om Blizzards guldålder?
This quiz tests knowledge of Blizzard Entertainment's most successful period, focusing on iconic franchises like Diablo, Warcraft, StarCraft, and World of Warcraft. Players are invited to log in to participate and see how much they remember about the company's golden age.
Empires of EVE author has launched the Kickstarter for his new MMORPG history book
Andrew Groen, author of the Empires of EVE books, has launched a Kickstarter for his new MMORPG history book, "The Archive: Epics of Virtual History." The book aims to preserve the cultural history of virtual worlds by documenting significant events and moments within games like EVE Online, World of Warcraft, and Runescape. The Kickstarter has already surpassed its initial funding goal.
WoW Factor: The times when World of Warcraft’s story did everything right
This article analyzes the narrative strengths of World of Warcraft, particularly highlighting Mists of Pandaria as a peak for its deliberate pacing and earned story moments. It contrasts this with the perceived lack of consequence and rushed plot developments in the recent expansion, Midnight, arguing that modern WoW's stories feel unearned due to their speed. The author advises current writers to adopt a slower, more methodical approach to storytelling, drawing parallels to the successful character development and faction conflict resolution seen in Mists of Pandaria.
Blizzard's former president wanted there to be a WoW 2 rather than 'the same WoW 1 expansions over and over…
Former Blizzard president Mike Ybarra expressed a desire for a "World of Warcraft 2" instead of continuous expansions for the original game, though he noted that such a decision would have been up to current game director Ion Hazzikostas. Despite recent issues, World of Warcraft remains a profitable MMO for Blizzard and Microsoft.
Snabbkollen – Blizzards bästa?
This article asks readers to vote for their favorite Blizzard Entertainment game series, highlighting the company's significant impact on gaming history since the 1990s. Popular franchises like Warcraft, StarCraft, Diablo, World of Warcraft, and Overwatch are presented as options, with an invitation for write-in suggestions.
Children’s Week has returned to World of Warcraft with new Silvermoon City content
World of Warcraft's annual Children's Week in-game event has returned, featuring new content in the refurbished Silvermoon City. Players can participate in various activities with an in-game orphan to earn themed pets and transmog gear. The event is available in both the core game and World of Warcraft Classic until May 4th.
MMORPG The Quinfall announces a new project to name and shame cheaters and RMT bots
Vawraek Technology, the developer of the MMORPG The Quinfall, has announced a new 'Wall of Shame' project to publicly list banned players. This initiative aims to increase transparency regarding rule violations such as real money trading and cheating. The studio previously stated that around 100 RMT accounts were actioned.
World of Warcraft’s Anniversary Classic realms start up phase 2 testing on the test server
Blizzard Entertainment is launching phase two testing for World of Warcraft's Anniversary Classic realms on test servers this week. This phase includes testing of the Serpentshrine Cavern and The Eye raids, along with increased drop rates for several 25-player raids.
Blizzard – toppar, floppar och omöjliga förväntningar
Blizzard Entertainment has a storied history marked by both critical acclaim and fan disappointment, from the groundbreaking Warcraft, Diablo, and Starcraft series to the monumental success of World of Warcraft. Despite challenges with titles like Diablo 3 and Warcraft 3: Reforged, and a shift towards monetization, the company continues to be a significant force in the gaming industry, with its legacy often judged against its past triumphs.
5 Marketing Mistakes Fan Conventions Make
This article analyzes common marketing mistakes made by fan conventions, such as over-reliance on social media and neglecting email campaigns or local community outreach. It highlights successful strategies employed by events like FanimeCon and MAGWest, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive marketing plan beyond just booking a venue and running ads. The piece also touches on the importance of networking with local fan communities and being present at other conventions to build direct connections with the target audience.
