by SymphonieWorld of Warcraft (WoW), developed by the renowned American company, Blizzard Entertainment, is a highly celebrated multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). Released in 2004, the game captivates its players with an immersive, task-driven journey set in expansive virtual landscapes and bolstered by exciting group challenges.
WoW, interestingly, has yet to adopt cryptocurrency technologies, such as Bitcoin, that have become common in other gaming ecosystems such as Bitcoin dice games. Players can either download the game from Blizzard Entertainment’s official site or procure a physical copy.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key features of World of Warcraft, guide you on how to play, and examine the cost implications. But before we embark on this virtual adventure, please note that there are currently 2 versions of the game: WoW Retail and WoW Classic. If you want to play the classic version, which is extremely popular right now, you should straight go to our compiled list of high quality WoW Classic Leveling Guides, they will walk you through the very start of the game until the max level in no time and teach you many tips and tricks along the way.
How to Play World of Warcraft
Before you immerse yourself in the fantasy world of Azeroth, you’ll need to create your unique character from a variety of available races and classes. Each race boasts unique bonuses for specific crafting professions and exclusive skills.
Choosing a server and faction is also essential. We suggest a server with a medium-to-high population during your typical playtime. It’s advisable to avoid servers designated for “new players” and those at “maximum capacity,” as they often come with long login queues. If you’re joining friends in Azeroth, select the same server as them. Remember, your chosen faction dictates the races available to you for character creation, so select one whose fantasy and aesthetics appeal to you.
The choice of class can be somewhat daunting, given that WoW offers 12, each with two to four specializations (specs). Your character’s specs determine their abilities and role within a group, from leading the party to playing a crucial healing role. While initially challenging, remember that you can switch between specs outside of combat.
WoW classes include:
- Warrior
- Paladin
- Hunter
- Rogue
- Mage
- Shaman
- Warlock
- Monk
- Druid
- Demon Hunter
- Priest
- Death knight
- Evoker
During your journey through Azeroth, you’ll encounter a wealth of quests, dungeons, raids, and player-versus-player (PvP) matches. Engage in leveling up your character, battling with others, joining guilds, and questing. Interactions with fellow players are facilitated through in-game chats, guilds, and other community features.
Aside from PvP matches, player versus environment (PvE) content, including dungeons and raids, provides a collaborative challenge. Dungeons require teamwork to conquer enemies, whereas raids necessitate large-scale collaboration to defeat a powerful adversary.
Is World of Warcraft Free to Play?
World of Warcraft is free to play from level 1 to 20. To unlock higher levels, a subscription is required. This fee grants access to game servers, customer support, and regular WoW content releases. Keep an eye out for promotional periods, which often allow gamers to play for a limited time without a subscription fee.
WoW offers three subscription options:
- Monthly subscription: Prices vary by region and duration. The longer the term, the lower the monthly cost: $14.99 for a single month, $13.99 per month for a three-month commitment, and $12.99 per month for a six-month subscription.
- Game time tokens: In addition to the regular subscription, players can purchase game time tokens with traditional currencies.
- Expansion purchase: A one-time fee grants access to each new WoW expansion.
System Requirements for Playing WoW
To ensure an optimal gaming experience, consider the following minimum system requirements:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-760 or AMD FX-8100 or later
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560 2GB, AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB, or Intel HD Graphics 530 (45W TDP)
- Input: Keyboard and mouse
- Internet: Broadband internet connection
- Memory: 4GB of RAM (8GB for integrated graphics like Intel HD Graphics Series)
- Operating System: Windows 7 64-bit
- Resolution: 1024×768 minimum display resolution
- Storage: 70GB on a 7200 RPM HDD
These specifications will ensure basic functionality, though higher specifications can enhance the gameplay experience.
Conclusion
World of Warcraft provides an unparalleled platform for MMORPG enthusiasts, Warcraft universe aficionados, adventurers, and competitive players. Given its long-standing popularity and regular updates, the game promises a continually evolving, engaging experience.
Visit Blizzard Entertainment’s official site to embark on your own Azeroth adventure.
