The War Within is getting closer, and the next step, the opening of the beta test phase, is coming on June 5th.
World of Warcraft’s next chapter will feature a new level cap, new systems, new zones, dungeons, and more that you’d expect in a new expansion. There are also entirely new features debuting here, including Warbands, the new account-wide progression system, delves, Hero Talent trees, and the new playable Earthen Allied race.
The Earthen in The War Within are different than the ones we’ve met before. One distinct feature is they are gem encrusted, and Blizzard plans on a number of customization options that include more gems, beards, and more when we get this new playable race.
The announcement of this next phase comes with details on what we can expect. Underneath Azeroth, there is much to discover. The Zones of Khaz Algar- Designated Sector AR-934 are a collection of new areas, and where you’ll meet the Earthen. Their capital city is Dornogal, on the Isle of Dorn, and the city will be the new hub for Horde and Alliance. Other areas include the cavernous The Ringing Deep, where the Earthen that maintain giant Titan machines dwell. They’re known as the Machine Speakers.
Hallowfall is also a site of conflict, where the Arathi are locked in an ongoing fight with the nerubians. The underground zone has a huge crystal at its center that lights the area. Finally, there is Azj-Kahet, where nerubian society is centered. There is much to discover in this murky zone, as Xal’atath, Harbinger of the Void, is manipulating and mutating nerubians in pursuit of a perfect army. This is also the location of the Nerub’ar Palace raid dungeon, with good reason.
Related:
World of Warcraft: The War Within Alpha Developer Interview
There will be four level up dungeons and four max level dungeons to challenge. Follower Dungeons will be available for soloers who want to complete their campaign goals without grouping up. We'll also see more quality of ligfe options, inclusing a new accessibility toggle that will turn spiders into crabs if you're arachnophobic.
If you’ve opted into beta test consideration, you might find yourself with an invite to this test. If you preordered, or upgrade to, the Epic Edition, then you will get immediate beta access when that phase opens and three days of early access to the expansion’s launch.
