WoWCast Developer Chat: Exploring the Battle Within

Blizzard has recently released an interview with WoWCast, where Game Director Ion Hazzikostas and Associate Art Director Tina Wang discuss the highly anticipated expansion, The War Within. In this exclusive interview, Hazzikostas and Wang provide insights into the upcoming features and storyline of the expansion.

The War Within: Defending Azeroth from the Shadows Below

Journey through uncharted subterranean worlds teeming with wonders and lurking dangers as you delve into the dark depths of the nerubian empire. Here, the Harbinger of the Void, Xal'atath, gathers arachnid forces to bring Azeroth to its knees. Having been freed from the black blade that once bound her, Xal'atath is now the Harbinger of a new era of the Void's dark machinations.

As the heroes of Azeroth, you have successfully defeated the Black Empire and the Old Gods. However, Xal'atath seeks to establish a new legacy by unleashing the power of the nerubians of Azj-Kahet. These once mighty warriors, who have survived countless wars, now serve Xal'atath and have undergone a dark evolution to become ferocious and terrifying soldiers.

Our Heroes and Their Unique Challenges

In The War Within, some of Azeroth's greatest heroes will rise to face their own personal trials:

• Anduin Wrynn:

• Anduin Wrynn, having survived his encounter with Domination, struggles with his relationship with the Holy Light, feeling unworthy of its power.

• Thrall:

• Thrall seeks a connection to the visions sweeping across Azeroth and strives to find his place within the Horde.

• Magni Bronzebeard:

• Magni Bronzebeard, the Speaker of Azeroth, confronts the heavy burden of his responsibility once and for all.

• Alleria Windrunner:

• Alleria Windrunner, a void hunter, plays a central role in the events and themes of The War Within. She must utilize her unique abilities to hunt down Xal'atath while dealing with the constant temptation of the Void.

The rivalry between Alleria Windrunner and Xal'atath will shape the nature of this new conflict, setting the stage for an epic saga.

Exploring the Depths of Khaz Algar: Designated Sector AR-934

Beneath the surface of Azeroth lies Khaz Algar, a vast underground world filled with danger and untold treasures. The expansion introduces several new zones to explore:

The Isle of Dorn: Discover the land of Khaz Algar, located off the western shores of Pandaria. The Earthen, an ancient race, dwell here, and their capital city, Dornogal, will become the new meeting ground for the Horde and Alliance.

The Ringing Deeps: This colossal cavern is the domain of the Machine Speakers, Earthen tasked with maintaining the ancient Titan machines.

Hallowfall: A bright underground zone illuminated by a massive crystal at its center. The Arathi, engaged in a ceaseless battle against the nerubians, call this area home.

Azj-Kahet: The pinnacle of nerubian society, where Xal'atath gathers and mutates nerubian forces to build an unstoppable army.

To accommodate players who may have arachnophobia, an arachnophobia filter will be available to replace spider creatures with harmless crabs.

Rediscovering the Earthen

The Earthen, a race of Titan-forged beings, have long been isolated within Khaz Algar. They have developed their own unique customs and appearances, distinguished by their larger size and gem encrusted bodies. The heroes of Azeroth must assist the Earthen in their quest to reunite and rebuild their dwindling numbers.

In addition, the Earthen will also become a playable allied race. Players can choose to join either the Horde or the Alliance, contributing to the cultural rejuvenation of the Earthen. A variety of customization options, including gem encrustations, beards, and skin tones, will be available for players to create their ideal Earthen character.

Thrilling Dungeons Awaken

As with previous expansions, The War Within introduces a series of dungeons that offer challenging encounters and valuable rewards:

• Level-Up Dungeons:

1. The Rookery
2. The Stonevault
3. Priory of the Sacred Flame
4. City of Threads

• Maximum Level Dungeons:

1. Cinderbrew Meadery
2. Darkflame Cleft
3. The Dawnbreaker
4. Old City

In addition to using the Dungeon Finder to team up with other players, there will be Follower Dungeons available for players who wish to continue the campaign storyline solo. These Follower Dungeons can be accessed in all level-up dungeons, providing a challenging experience for those who prefer to play alone.

Furthermore, The War Within introduces a new raid dungeon, Nerub'ar Palace, located in Azj-Kahet. This raid offers eight epic boss encounters that bring the story of the nerubian empire and their collaboration with Xal'atath to an epic climax. Players can anticipate exciting new tier rewards in recognition of their valor.

New Features to Enhance the Gameplay

The War Within expansion introduces several exciting features:

• Delves:

Beneath the surface of Azeroth, hidden treasure vaults await discovery. These solo-friendly instances can be explored with up to four friends and an NPC companion. Conquer formidable bosses and claim epic end-game loot.

• Delves Mechanical Mount Reward:

Mix and match various customizations to personalize your new mechanical mount and make it uniquely yours.

• Warbands:

Enhance the progression of your alternate characters with account-wide features. Shared Warband Bank access, War Within Renown, achievements, collections, and more allow your characters to support each other and advance together.

• Hero Talents:

Experience a new level of power with the introduction of Hero Talent trees. Each class specialization gains access to two unique Hero Talent trees inspired by iconic Warcraft archetypes. These new talents allow players to further tailor their characters to fit their desired playstyle.

• New Battleground: Deephaul Ravine

Dive into the thrilling new battleground, Deephaul Ravine, and engage in intense PvP action. Master the environment and utilize strategic advantages to defeat your enemies.

• Professions: New Recipes and Enchantments

Discover brand new recipes and enchantments for your professions, allowing you to further enhance your gear and abilities.

• UI Updates

Experience improved quest icons, making it easier to differentiate between types of quests and enhancing your overall questing experience.

Blizzard eagerly awaits your thoughts and feedback as they continue to develop The War Within. Sign up for The War Within test and be a part of shaping the future of World of Warcraft.