Arenas
In the latest patch, Siege of Orgrimmar, Blizzard changed the way Arena teams work. Before patch 5.4, players had to create a team for each bracket (2v2, 3v3, 5v5) and were awarded conquest points based on the teams performance. Now players no longer need to form “teams” but rather form a group and queue for the appropriate bracket just as you would a scenario or dungeon.
So now when one of my friends is online and wants to do some Arenas, we can group up, queue for a few battles and then later that night I can do the exact same thing with a different friend with no penelty. Often overlooked is the ability to group with friends from other realms and still be able to queue for Arenas. You can play with anyone at anytime (the only restriction is you must all be on the same faction). Not being locked into an Arena team as was the case prior to 5.4 makes it much easier to participate and even feel somewhat less intimidating.
)
Movie Update
As most of you probably already know, Blizzard has announced the theatrical release date of the upcoming Warcraft movie. Universal Pictures will release the film on December 18, 2015.
We’re pleased to announce that @Legendary Pictures’ WARCRAFT will be released by @UniversalPics on December 18, 2015.
— World of Warcraft (@Warcraft) October 1, 2013
There are lots of casting rumors swirling around the internet as well. In a report by Deadline, casting possibilities include Colin Farrell, Paula Patton, Anton Yelchin, Paul Dano, Travis Fimmel and Anson Mount. I am anticipating further news on the film at BlizzCon this November.
BlizzCon Update
Speaking of BlizzCon, Blizzard has announced the in-game goodies that will be available to attendees and Virtual Ticket holders in just over a month. WoW players will be getting a new Murkalot pet which is a Murloc in what appears to be the armor of the new Crusader class in the Diablo 3 expansion, Reaper of Souls. There is also a Mystery Minion card for Hearthstone which I imagine will be related to the expected announcement of the next World of Warcraft expansion. Here are images of the announced in-game goodies:
)
What are some of things you enjoy doing the most while playing with your friends in MMO’s? Let us know in the comments below!
This week’s throwback item: Hammer of the Naaru
Follow me on Twitter @rezalackey
Reza Lackey / Reza is a giant nerd who loves video games, board games, film and way too many other things. Works in the film industry, on some startups and thinks science is cool. Also launches rockets.
