Wowhead's Exclusive Blizzcon 2023 Interview with Anne Stickney and Tina Wang Revealed

This year at BlizzCon 2023, Wowhead was fortunate to have an exclusive interview with Senior Narrative Director Anne Stickley and Associate Game Director Tina Wang, where they discussed The War Within, the open-world endgame Delve content, and Heroic Talent philosophies. In this in-depth conversation, Stickley and Wang shed light on various aspects of the upcoming expansion and provide insight into the development process. Read on for the full transcript of the interview.

Background of the Arathi Humans

Stickley explains that the Arathi humans are a splintered tribe of the original Arathi Empire. They were part of a massive empire that united all of humanity before it split into the seven kingdoms known today. The Arathi humans in question left the empire and formed their own kingdom across the sea. These individuals received a vision about a falling star that led them to Harrowfall, where they found the massive key art depicted in the expansion. The Arathi humans are deeply devoted to the Light and can be considered as uber Paladins. It made sense to introduce this group because of their rich history as one of the first empires of humanity.

Wang adds that the team wanted to create more human-focused content, as it had been a while since the game explored their culture and history. They were excited to delve into the unique aspects of the Arathi humans, such as their animal companions and their evolution as a branch of humanity outside of the known kingdoms.

The Role of the Holy Flame

The Arathi humans utilize the Holy Flame to power their airships. Stickley and Wang mention that the Arathi humans are fighting against the darkness, particularly against the Nerubians. Stickley highlights the Priory of the Secret Flame dungeon, which has a Cathedral-like design and showcases the Arathi humans' extensive use of the Holy Flame.

The Sword and its Significance

Stickley mentions the sword seen in the cinematic and states that it is part of the Worldsoul Saga, a storyline that spans three expansions. The World Soul is calling out to individuals for a specific reason, and Stickley hints that the sword plays a crucial role. While she can't provide many details about its significance in The War Within, she assures that it is not a side plot but an integral part of the main story.

Stickley also addresses the confusion surrounding the crystalline ceiling and clarifies that it is separate from the sword. The ceiling is a mysterious light source that adds to the enigmatic nature of the expansion.

Discovering Azeroth's Call

The players in the expansion's trailer are depicted as not knowing the origin of Azeroth's call. Stickley confirms that characters like Magni, who serves as a direct line to the World Soul, will be involved in exploring this call. However, iconic figures like Thrall and Anduin may not be fully aware of these world-changing events due to their personal journeys and responsibilities. Stickley suggests that there will be revelations over time as the story unfolds.

The Struggle Within Anduin

Anduin, who faces his own inner turmoil, questions whether he is worthy of the values he aspires to uphold. Stickley explains that Anduin's devotion to peace, compassion, and diplomacy stems from his childhood. However, recent events have shaken him to his core and made him doubt his worthiness. Stickley hints at Anduin's struggle with the darkness within and the exploration of his story in The War Within.

Anduin and Arthas

Addressing the similarities between Anduin and Arthas, Stickley clarifies that there is no Arthas within Anduin. However, she acknowledges that the power of Domination, which both characters have encountered, left a lasting impact on them. Anduin's devotion to the Light and his traumatic experiences shape his character's journey, but he is not destined to follow in Arthas' footsteps.

Stickley emphasizes the importance of closure after going through such horrific events and hints at Anduin's interactions with the Arathi humans, who may offer assistance and companionship.

Expanding the Release Cadence

Wowhead inquires about the frequency of future expansions. Wang mentions that the team aims to increase the release cadence but also prioritizes a responsible pace that allows for proper development and maintains player engagement. The team wants to avoid long periods of content drought between expansions, as experienced during the transition from Mists of Pandaria to Warlords of Draenor.

Continued Storytelling

Stickley assures that 10.2 is not the final patch of Dragonflight and there is still more story to be told. The Worldsoul Saga extends beyond the initial trilogy of expansions, and Stickley expresses excitement about the upcoming content as the story unfolds over the years. The focus is on delivering a satisfying payoff for players who have been invested in the game for two decades.

Updates on Professions

There is not much information available about professions at the moment. Stickley mentions that the team wants to keep professions fascinating and engaging for players and ensure that they yield valuable rewards. The team is committed to refining the profession system but will share more details with the community as work progresses.

Delves: Flexibility and Progression

Wang discusses the lessons learned from Island Expeditions and Torghast and how they influenced the development of Delves. The team wanted to offer progression without the pressure of timers and the requirement for specific classes. Delves are designed to be flexible, allowing players to engage in short, rewarding content that can be completed in around 15 minutes. Wang also emphasizes that Delves offer players a way to interact with the mastery aspect of World of Warcraft while providing more freedom compared to timed content like Mythic+ dungeons and raids.

Stickley mentions that Delves combine elements from various types of gameplay, such as scenarios from Mists of Pandaria, treasure rooms, and withered training. They offer a mix of combat and puzzle-solving, providing a unique experience each time. Additionally, Stickley highlights the importance of the companion system, which allows players to customize their experience by spec'ing their companions, enhancing the gameplay aspect of Delves.

Heroic Talents and Warbands

The introduction of Heroic Talents aims to provide players the freedom to lean into specific fantasies within their class. Wang explains that this system allows for customization without disrupting the existing talent trees. Each specialization will have two choices for their Heroic Talents, providing players with more options to shape their character's playstyle.

Stickley praises the flexibility and customization potential of Heroic Talents, drawing comparisons to artifact talent trees. She appreciates the visual cues these talents offer, indicating to other players when a character has triggered a significant ability.

Future Class Revamps and Improvements

While Heroic Talents will bring new options, Stickley acknowledges that class revamps and improvements are ongoing based on player feedback. The team remains open to making necessary changes and ensuring that classes reflect the desires and expectations of the player community.

Conclusion

Stickley and Wang provide an extensive look into The War Within expansion, shedding light on its lore, gameplay features, and future plans. The expansion promises to deliver an engaging story, flexible gameplay options, and exciting progression systems. With updates planned for professions and the addition of Heroic Talents and Delves, players can expect a rich and varied experience in the upcoming expansion.

Stay tuned for more updates and information as BlizzCon 2023 continues to unfold!