Blizzard outlines new zones and features for World of Warcraft: Forever

At BlizzCon, Blizzard representatives discussed the next phase of its classic MMORPG, World of Warcraft: Forever. Lead game designer Tim Jones and lead software engineer Nora Mills said the team is adding new zones such as Mount Hyjal and the Riverglades, and introduced an updated lighting and particle system that will refresh the game's visual presentation.

The developers emphasized improvements to the leveling experience, noting that the game will retain a level-60 cap while streamlining progression for new and returning players. They also previewed a forthcoming dungeon, the Hall of Thanes, and described new gear, items, and reward structures designed to enhance end-game content.

"We want to make leveling feel rewarding without the grind that used to dominate classic play," Jones said.

Add-on support will continue, and the team addressed pricing for the upcoming Skyborne elf race, indicating that the cost will be comparable to previous race offerings. Future plans include the possibility of new classes, such as the long-requested Tinkerer, though no timeline was provided.

The interview also covered social features, including a revamped camping system, multiple faction options, and PvP realm configurations aimed at fostering player interaction.