BlizzCon finally returned to an in-person event for the first time since 2019, and it did not fail to deliver. Saved for last in the opening ceremony, Chris Metzen took control of the stage and delivered one of the best BlizzCon moments in recent memories. Metzen wasted no time introducing BlizzCon to the next era of World of Warcraft called “The Worldsoul Saga.” Metzen describes this new era as the culmination of the first twenty years of storytelling that will propel World of Warcraft into the next twenty years. It was heavily rumored that the tenth expansion of WoW would be announced at this year’s BlizzCon. But what was not expected, was the announcement of the next three expansions: The War Within, Midnight, and The Last Titan.
First up in the Worldsoul Saga is The War Within. Players will adventure to new subterranean areas where they will encounter Nerubians and a new allied race called Earthen Dwarves. New zones include Azj-kahet, Isles of Dorn, The Ringing Deeps, and Hallowfal and will feature new dungeons and raids. Along with new areas, Blizzard announced new in-game features to the roar of applause. In an effort to cater to all players, Delves were introduced for The War Within. Delves are a series of outdoor vaults that players explore along with the Dragonscale Expedition. Delves can be completed by groups of 1-4 players and are role-agnostic, meaning you can complete them with any specialization (goodbye 30-minute queue times for non-tank and healer specs!). They will feature seasonal content and give players endgame rewards. In one of the most alt-friendly moves, Blizzard introduced Warbands, an account-wide system that is a massive quality of life update. Players will have account-wide banks, items, reputation, transmogs, flight paths, achievements, and the rewards from delves.
Midnight is scheduled to be the eleventh expansion. While it’s still under development, Metzen did state the theme will focus on a return to Quel’thalas where void forces have invaded in an attempt to destroy the Sunwell.
The twelfth scheduled expansion, and third in the Worldsoul Saga, is The Last Titan. This expansion returns players to Northrend where players witness the return of the Titans at Ulduar and uncover a “vast conspiracy” about the Titans and their intentions.
“When it comes to WoW’s storytelling, we ain’t screwin’ around,” Metzen proclaimed, “We are playing for all the marbles. We are working to establish a thundering heartbeat for this franchise.” “Whether you are a current player or maybe you jumped off the WoW train a few expansions ago, now is the time to come home. Now is the time to pull on your boots, pick up your broadsword or favorite glowy staff, and get in this fight.”
The War Within is now available for preorder and offers three different bundles featuring in-game goodies, subscription time, mounts, transmog sets, character boost, and more. The Worldsoul Saga kicks off with The War Within scheduled to launch in Fall 2024.
Image from: Blizzard
