World of Warcraft: Forever isn't some sort of spin-off, it's a genuine third pillar for this rich, massively multiplayer role-playing game's universe that's rightly captured and kept the hearts of so many for decades. Reimagining the '00s era of the world as it was, then asking 'what would come next?' makes for a kind of retro throwback distinct from World of Warcraft Classic, and is enticing in a whole new way. More than a 'what if?' experiment, this is like revisiting Azeroth with a fresh pair eyes whether you're a World of Warcraft veteran or newcomer.
It's a special achievement, which is why WoW: Forever has quickly become one of our most anticipated new games as we've been playing through the Beta, preparing for the Nov 4 launch. It's shaping up to be be one of the best MMORPGs we've played in a long time, making it perfect to be our Big Preview ahead of the game's imminent release. We've played an unhealthy amount of the game already and spoken with the developers bringing it to life, as well as detailing just what sets WoW and WoW: Forever apart from the competition and what to expect if you've already got thousands of hours in this world, or are curious about hopping in for the first time.
Join us below to explore our World of Warcraft: Forever Big Preview with us on GamesRadar+, updating throughout the week as the MMO's launch draws closer.
World of Warcraft Forever: The Big Preview
World of Warcraft: Forever interview: Speaking with the developers at Blizzard Entertainment, we chat about creating a new version of WoW that can stand beside Vanilla and Classic, the MMO's enduring legacy, the expectations of an invested community, and preparing for WoW: Forever's big launch.
After playing World of Warcraft: Forever, I'm convinced it gives old school fans everything they could want: And we're ready to play hundreds of hours more. Diving into everything new this version of the game has to offer, this is shaping up to bridge the gap between the modern game and Classic vibes.
8 Reasons why WoW Forever is ensuring the iconic MMO remains immovable: From a greater emphasis on social activities, to more reasons to immerse yourself in Azeroth like never before, and mechanics that tie all of that together, World of Warcraft is a universe that still has the juice.
To make World of Warcraft: Forever's controversial Skyborne less "jarring" to look at, Blizzard is going back to 2004: Blizzard ensure these new additions won't feel out of place with Forever's old school style, despite some controversy around the race's $30 price.
World of Warcraft: Forever video
Dive deeper
Accused of using AI in World of Warcraft: Forever videos, Blizzard employee says "hell nah" – we have "real team members"
Despite controversy, World of Warcraft: Forever's $30 Skyborne race is one of the Beta's most popular among both Horde and Alliance players
World of Warcraft: Forever aims to "aggressively shut down the flow of suspicious gold" – but Blizzard warns there "may be false positives" at first
As Blizzard launches yet another version of World of Warcraft, lead says "our hope is to grow the audience, not to fracture it"
WoW: Forever patch notes leave fans asking Blizzard "why" and hoping for more class adjustments
New World of Warcraft: Forever dungeon commits one of the MMO's biggest no-nos
World of Warcraft: Forever is "simplifying" Blizzard's usual PvP but also adding a controversial weekly grind as MMO fans beg "please don't do the weeklies thing"
World of Warcraft: Forever may take us to Northrend and Pandaria one day as "Azeroth is a big place"
There's a whole gaming world out there (some involving war). Check out our best open world games and best RPGs rankings for more to play now, and keep an eye on our upcoming RPGs calendar for what's on the horizon!
