WoW Insider http://wow.joystiq.com WoW Insider http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/wow.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif WoW Insider http://wow.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. View our terms of service here: http://legal.aol.com/terms-of-service/full-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Deconstructing the Cataclysm trailer]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/deconstructing-the-cataclysm-trailer/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/deconstructing-the-cataclysm-trailer/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/04/deconstructing-the-cataclysm-trailer/#comments It's been a couple weeks since Cataclysm was announced at BlizzCon. We've had plenty of time to ruminate and discuss, to fantasize and theorize. WoW's third expansion is ripe with promise and expansion, both for the Old World of the Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor but also in terms of lore. We've got new races to look forward to, new zones and, most importantly, the obliteration ofwhat we know as Azeroth. Indeed this expansion heralds a brave new world with new dangers and a new foe, in the form of the former Dragon Aspect, Deathwing.

We've broken apart the trailer into individual scenes, and we'll going to take a look at the most important moments -- from the opening where we're fighting in Northrend to the big reveal of Deathwing at the end. We are also going to ask those all important questions like "Who exactly is narrating the trailer" and "Why are we still fighting Arthas, where's our end-of-expansion break?". Don't forget, if you need to refresh your memory or relive the experience, you can also check out the trailer for yourself.

Gallery: Deconstructing the Cataclysm trailer

Down with the ScourgeIcecrown Citadel?The Lich KingCataclysmDeathwing emerges

World of Warcraft: Cataclysm will destroy Azeroth as we know it. Nothing will be the same. In WoW.com's Guide to Cataclysm you can find out everything you need to know about WoW's third expansion. From Goblins and Worgen to Mastery and Guild changes, it's all there for your cataclysmic enjoyment.

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Deconstructing the Cataclysm trailer originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cataclysmcataclysm-launchcataclysm-newscataclysm-racescataclysm-release-datecataclysm-trailercataclysm-wowdeathwinggoblin-racegoblinsworgenworgen-raceworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmwow-catwow-cataclysmwow-cataclysm-changeswow-cataclysm-newswow-expansionwow-patch-4.0.2 (Lesley Smith) Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Patch 3.2.2 PTR: Confirmed TCG loot for Scourgewar, Ghostcrawler finally gives us that pony]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/patch-3-2-2-ptr-landro-longshot-confirms-tcg-loot-for-scourgewa/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/patch-3-2-2-ptr-landro-longshot-confirms-tcg-loot-for-scourgewa/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/patch-3-2-2-ptr-landro-longshot-confirms-tcg-loot-for-scourgewa/#comments With news of all these pets leaking out onto the interweb and the patch 3.2.2 PTR build being updated, I figured it was high time to nip to Booty Bay to visit Landro Longshot. He's usually a great source for finding out what we can expect in the Trading Card Game. Sure enough, he was updated with info on Scourgewar, which will be released on November 21st. Landro tells me that there's some great loot coming, in the form of mini mounts (the Little White Stallion and the Little Ivory Raptor), the Tuskarr Kite and the ever so adorable Spectral Tiger Cub.

We're not quite sure how the mini mounts are going to work or whether they will be faction-orientated. But it's the Little White Stallion is likely to raise a smile for all of Ghostcrawler's fans. Yes, we (and by that we mean the people who get the loot cards) will finally getting that long-promised pony! The mounts are likely to cost a couple of hundred gold each and they're not yet purchasable on the PTR. The normal codes (1111, 2222 and 3333) aren't active yet but as soon as they are, we'll be sure to bring you pictures.

Gallery: Patch 3.2.2 PRT Scourgewar Loot


2n - 1 go left, 2n go right. I don't see enough DoTs! More DoTs now!

Are you ready for the return of Onyxia? With the Brood Mother being revitalized as a 10 and 25 person raid, you'll need to be sure you know everything that's coming at you. WoW.com's Guide to Patch 3.2.2 will make sure your set for the next patch!

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Patch 3.2.2 PTR: Confirmed TCG loot for Scourgewar, Ghostcrawler finally gives us that pony originally appeared on WoW Insider on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ghostcrawlerghostcrawler-promised-me-a-ponylittle-white-stallionpatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-changespatch-3.2.2-wowscourgewarspectral-tiger-cubtcgtcg-itemstcg-loottcg-mounttuskarr-kiteworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2wow-3.2.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2wow-patch-news (Lesley Smith) Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Season three of The Guild launches on MSN Video]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/season-three-of-the-guild-launches-on-msn-video/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/season-three-of-the-guild-launches-on-msn-video/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/season-three-of-the-guild-launches-on-msn-video/#comments &amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;quot;http://videoguide.msn.com/play/?g=6f31eb66-4360-439a-ad62-f2bdf28f550e&amp;amp;quot; target=&amp;amp;quot;_new&amp;amp;quot; title=&amp;amp;quot;Season 3 - Episode 1: Expansion Time&amp;amp;quot;&amp;amp;gt;Video: Season 3 - Episode 1: Expansion Time&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;
Everyone loves The Guild, the popular online series created by Felicia Day, especially us here at WoW.com, just check out the pictures from our BlizzCon meetup and the liveblog from The Guild panel. The third series kicked off in the wee small hours of this morning when the first episode went live on MSN Video and (for Gold members) Xbox Live. It looks like it's off to a cracking start as well, the Knights of Good are still in chaos after the final episode of season two. However Codex hopes that the release of a new expansion will mend the rifts between the guildies. You can check out the first episode above.

The trailer was released last week and promises a guild war! Yes, they've found their nemeses in the form of a hotter group of players called the Axis of Anarchy (led by geek heartthrob Wil Wheaton who makes his series debut). On top of that the personal lives of the guildies seem to be in meltdown with Bladezz in four grand of debt, Tink is avoiding him and Vork's feeling like he skipped out on his GM duties. Oh and Zaboo's got a girlfriend! Due to the deal with Xbox Live, it's going to be a while before The Guild hits YouTube so for now check out the MSN Video page to get your fix if you don't have a 360.

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Season three of The Guild launches on MSN Video originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bladezzcodexmsn-videothe-guildthe-guild-season-2the-guild-season-3vorkxbox-livexbox-live-marketplacezaboo (Lesley Smith) Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[European weekly maintenance: September 2nd 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/european-weekly-maintenance-september-2nd-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/european-weekly-maintenance-september-2nd-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/european-weekly-maintenance-september-2nd-2009/#comments It's nearly the middle of the week once more as well as the start of September. Can anyone else smell autumn yet? The days are getting cooler (thank you!) and the nights, darker. It will be the Harvest Festival in a couple of weeks with free food outside Ironforge and Ogrimmar and there are only so many days till Hallow's End and Christmas/Winter's Veil (sorry, I couldn't resist). However the onset of autumn, as well as being my favourite time of year, also means more time to play WoW. Just not on Wednesdays.

This week Blizzard will be taking all European realms offline from 1:00am until 11:00am (CEST). However a selection of realms will be down for longer "to address instance capacity." These realms will be offline from 1:00am to 3:00pm on Wednesday and 3:00am to 7:00am (CEST) on Thursday:

Agamaggan, Aggramar, Al'Akir, Arathor, Argent Dawn, Aszune, Azjol-Nerub, Bladefist, Bloodhoof, Bloodscalp, Burning Blade, Burning Legion, Crushridge, Daggerspine (oh boo, that's me), Deathwing, Doomhammer, Draenor, Dragonblight, Dragonmaw, Dunemaul, Emerald Dream, Sunstrider, Twilight's Hammer and Zenedar.

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European weekly maintenance: September 2nd 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> europeeuropean-extended-maintenanceeuropean-weekly-maintenancerealm-newsrealm-status (Lesley Smith) Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Tyrael gets more emotes, can now sleep]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/tyrael-gets-more-emotes-can-now-sleep/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/tyrael-gets-more-emotes-can-now-sleep/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/tyrael-gets-more-emotes-can-now-sleep/#comments Everyone loves Mini Tyrael, the angelic little pet given away to attendees of last year's Worldwide Invitational in Paris. While the little guy looks awesome (indeed he's my favorite pet), he's always let folks down by doing, well, very little. He didn't make a noise when you clicked on him but he would /dance with you. Well, Blizzard has finally bothered to address the situation and make Tyrael into the pet he should be. After all, he is an angel, they're supposed to be cool.

I was in Stormwind the other day meeting a friend for an impromptu party to celebrate the fact he had just gotten El Pollo Grande. So while we compared chickens and abused the /chicken command, I got out the Foam Sword Rack and my Ogre Pinata and then summoned the little guy. Even now it amazes me how many people come up to me and whisper to inquire how I got/crafted him and could they get/buy one.

As we were dancing, I noticed big green zzzz's coming from my beloved pet. At first I thought someone had cast a spell on him as he'd never done this before but it turns out he was just bored. Yes, Blizzard may not have added any sound effects but Tyrael now passes out when he gets bored (perhaps he's waiting for the release of Diablo III?). He will toss and turn for a bit, as if having a nightmare about Sanctuary and Diablo, and will wake up after ten seconds or so with a cool ripple effect to remind us just how divine he is. I've yet to find someone with the Mini Diablo pet and see if they will fight it out, a la Grunty and the Zergling though.

Hit the jump to see a video of Tyrael's emoting awesomeness,

Continue reading Tyrael gets more emotes, can now sleep

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Tyrael gets more emotes, can now sleep originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gruntygrunty-the-murloc-marinenewsodds-and-endstyraeltyrael-emotestyrael-petzergling (Lesley Smith) Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[How WoW might be played on the Apple Tablet]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/how-wow-might-be-played-on-the-apple-tablet/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/how-wow-might-be-played-on-the-apple-tablet/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/how-wow-might-be-played-on-the-apple-tablet/#comments
The mythical Apple Tablet is one of those lovely shiny objects that we'd all love to have but has yet to officially be announced by Apple. Still, that doesn't stop folk dreaming now does it? Well Cult of Mac recently posted an article on on how the Tablet will change gaming. The essential gist of the piece is that the Tablet will be a larger version of the iPhone but -- and here's where it gets interesting -- it also features a demo video showing how WoW might work if you decided to play it on the Tablet.

The demo was created by an anonymous graduate student called, unsurprisingly, Jon Doe. Doe has used actual game footage from Darnassus to figure out how you could use your fingers to play the game, rather than the more traditional mouse and keyboard. He only really goes into moving around and how the movement of your wrist affects the character but it's an intriguing start. Multitouch is becoming a way of life, so how would it work if you controlled your toon with one hand and used the action bar with your right?

Check out the video above.

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How WoW might be played on the Apple Tablet originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> apple-tabletcult-of-macmulti-touchmultitouchnewsworld-of-warcraftwow (Lesley Smith) Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Cataclysm Worgen and Goblin starter zone maps]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/cataclysm-worgen-and-goblin-starter-zone-maps/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/cataclysm-worgen-and-goblin-starter-zone-maps/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/cataclysm-worgen-and-goblin-starter-zone-maps/#comments
The great thing about playable demos are the tidbits of info and sneaky souls with cameras snapping things they shouldn't be snapping. Such was the case in the press room at BlizzCon this year, where cameras were prohibited from pointing their lenses towards computer screnes. However, it appears that Spanish fansite WoW Todo got around the floating press room attendants somehow, and posted maps of the new starting zones for Goblins and Worgens.

Both of the maps have a couple of unique touches. For example, both have images of their inhabitants on it. The Lost Isles map has a particularly ugly female Goblin in a bikini while Gilneas features a human in Victorian garb. The latter also has a couple of shredded bits as if a Worgen adventurer had used his or her claws when trying to read the map. The Goblin map features a scattering of indented gold coins at the corners, as if to hold it open. Both are awesome little touches that add that special bit of pizazz to the new zones.

But the maps do give us a proper glance at what we can expect from the two zones. Gilneas is dominated by Greymane Manor and the town of Duskhaven. Looking at it, I was expecting something a bit larger, but then you remember it is a starter zone. The Lost Isles is smaller still with an Alliance encampment to the North and an Orc settlement to the south, which explains their presence in the trailer.

We should note that the Gilneas map is only part of the Worgen starting zone. The city and the Greymane wall are due East of what's presented.

Check out the Goblin map and Worgen map over on WoW Todo.

World of Warcraft: Cataclysm will destroy Azeroth as we know it. Nothing will be the same. In WoW.com's Guide to Cataclysm you can find out everything you need to know about WoW's third expansion. From Goblins and Worgens to Mastery and Guild changes, it's all there for your cataclysmic enjoyment.

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Cataclysm Worgen and Goblin starter zone maps originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cataclysm-newscataclysm-wowgilneasgoblin-racegoblinsstarter-zone-mapsthe-lost-islesworgenworgen-raceworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmwow-catwow-cataclysmwow-cataclysm-changeswow-cataclysm-newswow-expansionwow-patch-4.0.2 (Lesley Smith) Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Patch 3.2.2 PTR: Pandaren and Lil' K.T. pets revealed in latest build]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/patch-3-2-2-ptr-pandaren-and-lil-k-t-pets-revealed-in-latest/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/patch-3-2-2-ptr-pandaren-and-lil-k-t-pets-revealed-in-latest/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/patch-3-2-2-ptr-pandaren-and-lil-k-t-pets-revealed-in-latest/#comments Like Diablo's Cow Level, the Pandaren have almost mythic status within World of Warcraft since that memorable and almost plausible April Fool's Day prank. Blizzard has paid homage to that by tucking a pet Pandaren Monk into the latest build (10371) of patch 3.2.2 which has just gone live on the PTR.

Boubouille over at MMO Champion has once again been rooting around the patch files and he came across the first model of the aforementioned pet. Isn't he cute? Heavy on the Chinese aethetics, we have no idea how you'll be able to get this little guy. While datamining, Boubouille also discovered another hitherto unmentioned pet, Lil' K.T.. Yes, you too can have your own pocket-sized Kel'Thuzad, a tiny trophy-sized lich to call your very own! Again, we're not sure how you get one. Here's hoping he drops off his full-sized self in Naxx but who knows? For now we just have a spell note in the files

And as a note, please remember that Pandarens are not a playable race, nor is this an indication they will ever be added to WoW.
2n - 1 go left, 2n go right. I don't see enough DoTs! More DoTs now!

Are you ready for the return of Onyxia? With the Brood Mother being revitalized as a 10 and 25 person raid, you'll need to be sure you know everything that's coming at you. WoW.com's Guide to Patch 3.2.2 will make sure your set for the next patch!

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Patch 3.2.2 PTR: Pandaren and Lil' K.T. pets revealed in latest build originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> april-foolsapril-fools-dayapril-fools-jokeapril-fools-prankboubouillecow-leveldiablodiablo-2kel-thuzadlil-ktmmo-championpandarenpandaren-monkpandaren-petpatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-changespatch-3.2.2-ptrpatch-3.2.2-wowworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2wow-3.2.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2wow-patch-news (Lesley Smith) Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[What does Blizzard have planned for a Cataclysm in-game launch event?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/what-does-blizzard-have-planned-for-a-cataclysm-in-game-launch-e/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/what-does-blizzard-have-planned-for-a-cataclysm-in-game-launch-e/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/what-does-blizzard-have-planned-for-a-cataclysm-in-game-launch-e/#comments So Cataclysm is coming and Kisirani is already working on an in-game launch event. It's gotta mean something right? Now don't get me wrong, even with my self-confessed zombiephobia, I loved last November's zombie invasion (though, at times, it got really frustrating). So now Kisirani is officially hard at work planning a new event to herald the beginning of an Azerothian cataclysm, I can't help but wonder what she has up her sleeves for us.

Is anyone else excited? I certainly am and it gives us something to focus on during the inevitable wait. To be fair, at least Cataclysm's not scheduled for 2012! We don't have that long to wait, we could be rolling Worgen and Goblins in just under/over a year's time. That just about makes it bearable. But it also leaves us with time to think about what Blizzard will do to introduce players to this brave new world.

Hit the jump to find out what we think could well happen prior to the launch of Cataclysm.

Continue reading What does Blizzard have planned for a Cataclysm in-game launch event?

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What does Blizzard have planned for a Cataclysm in-game launch event? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> barrensblizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009cataclysmcataclysm-eventcataclysm-launchcataclysm-launch-eventcataclysm-release-datecataclysm-world-eventdeathwingdesolacegilneasgoblinsin-game-eventkisiranilaunch-eventlorestormwindtwilights-hammerundercityworgenworld-eventworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmwow-cataclysmwow-preview-panel (Lesley Smith) Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Upper Deck announces Amsterdam Darkmoon Faire]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/upper-deck-announces-amsterdam-darkmoon-faire/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/upper-deck-announces-amsterdam-darkmoon-faire/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/upper-deck-announces-amsterdam-darkmoon-faire/#comments European fans of the World of Warcraft Trading Card Game are in luck as the Darkmoon Faire will be visiting Amsterdam this September. Upper Deck, who host the events, are expecting 350 players to attend and are offering a host of prizes, including a goody bag for every attendee as well as raffle with some really epic loot as prizes. The goody bag contains a T-Shirt, regular and exclusive Mini figures, a Death Knight Starter pack, some battleground cards, a demo CD, a common loot card and an entry form for the raffle.

The raffle is where things get interesting. Upper Deck have fifteen prizes up for grabs which have a combined worth of €5000. They are giving away:
  • One Frostmourne sword
  • Two Collectors Editions of Wrath of the Lich King
  • Five exclusive Wrath of the Lich King mousepads
  • Two complete sets of Minis
  • Five Spectral Tiger mounts
The event will be taking place at Westergasfabriek between September 12th and 13th. Tickets are free so if you're in Amsterdam that weekend, you might want to pop along.

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Upper Deck announces Amsterdam Darkmoon Faire originally appeared on WoW Insider on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> amsterdamdarkmoon-faireeuropefrostmournefrostmourne-replicanewsspectral-tigerspectral-tiger-cardspectral-tiger-mountupper-deckupper-deck-entertainmentupper-deck-internationalwrath-of-the-lich-king (Lesley Smith) Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[The WoW tourist's guide to important Cataclysm locations]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/the-wow-tourists-guide-to-important-cataclysm-locations/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/the-wow-tourists-guide-to-important-cataclysm-locations/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/the-wow-tourists-guide-to-important-cataclysm-locations/#comments It was a hectic two days at this year's BlizzCon with lots of revelations, some good, others awesome. Destruction is coming to Azeroth with the return of Deathwing, changing the face of the planet forever. While we won't see the game until 2010, the world will change entirely and cities will be revamped in order to enable them to be made flyable. However, there are several very important locations currently in-game (for the most part) which are going to be very important to the coming Cataclysm.

Check out our gallery below as we take you on a guided tour of some of the important places you should probably visit right now before they are changed forever.

Gallery: The WoW tourist's guide to important Cataclysm locations

Greymane WallGilneasShadowfang KeepSouthshoreGrim Batol

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The WoW tourist's guide to important Cataclysm locations originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> auberdineazerothcataclysm-racescataclysm-release-datedeathwinggilneasgoblin-racegoblinsgrim-batolold-blanchyuldumvashjirwestfallworgenworgen-race (Lesley Smith) Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Night Elves and Worgen: Druid allies of the Moon]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/night-elves-and-worgen-druid-allies-of-the-moon/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/night-elves-and-worgen-druid-allies-of-the-moon/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/night-elves-and-worgen-druid-allies-of-the-moon/#comments For some, the Worgen seem unlikely members of the Alliance. These lupine creatures have a long history within Azeroth, even if no one is quite sure where or - to quote Chris Metzen, "when" - they come from. The choice to include the isolationist zone of Gilneas is logical. After all Arugal's infamous Shadowfang Keep is located just north of the Greymane Wall, right up the road. Added to this the fact a Gilnean hasn't been seen in a decade, well that makes them ripe for a lorefest. Blizzard have all but confirmed it was their isolationist attitude which led to the people of Gilneas becoming Worgen but if that is the case then it's kind of ironic. They hid to escape the undead plague and instead succumbed to another infection entirely.

Formally humans and now Worgen, the trailer hints that it will be the efforts of the Night Elves which will see the Worgen joining the Alliance. Now this in interesting because the Night Elves have their own history with the Worgen, Velinde Starsong and the Scythe of Elune. But given that the Gilnean Worgen are the only other Alliance race who can become Druids, there's an even deeper link between the two races. Also, given that Druids are skilled shapeshifters, the Night Elves could hold the key to helping the people of Gilneas deal with their curse.

Now the werewolves on which the Worgen are based are lunar creatures. In the most popular mythology they are forced to transform when the moon is full but this is not always the case. Part of this can be seen in the Wolfcult of Northrend's Grizzly Hills who remain in human form until forced into combat. For the Night Elves, who revere the larger silvery orb known as the White Lady as their supreme Goddess, Elune, the Worgen are a part of their mytholgy. While in the past, the Scythe of Elune storyline has been a big part of Worgen lore, how much of it and the pull of the Moon - which is found in traditional werewolf lore - will make it into Cataclysm remains to be seen.

This is part of the excitement of a new expansion, the promise of the unknown is just that, so promising! For a short time, our imaginations can wander without the constraints of fact and detail. We can dream of what we want the Worgen and, specifically, the Druid class to be within the lore of Azeroth. Regardless of what this might be in the end, there is definitely going to be a close bond between the Kaldorei and the people of Gilneas which will shape how World of Warcraft moves into a post-Cataclysm age.

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Night Elves and Worgen: Druid allies of the Moon originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> arugalcataclysmelunegilneasnight-elf-druidnight-elvesscythe-of-elunevelinde-starsongwerewolveswolfcultworgenworgen-druidworgen-race (Lesley Smith) Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: Will you subscribe to the World of Warcraft Magazine?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/breakfast-topic-will-you-subscribe-to-the-world-of-warcraft-mag/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/breakfast-topic-will-you-subscribe-to-the-world-of-warcraft-mag/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/breakfast-topic-will-you-subscribe-to-the-world-of-warcraft-mag/#comments The announcement that Future and Blizzard are teaming up to produce World of Warcraft: The Magazine surprised almost everyone, I think. No more so because of the undeniable shift from print to digital media. However the fact that Blizzard is involved and the promise of no adverts and a "coffee table" kind of feel makes this very appealing. Granted the subscription is a little high, especially when you consider you're only getting four issues for your cash and yet I think a lot of people are going to sign up. I'm probably going to be one of them.

As a fanbase, we're know for collecting shiny things to do with our game of choice, whether it's a Wrath Collector's Edition or a Starcraft II messenger bag. Personally my thing is artbooks: I've got the whole set from the Art of the World of Warcraft to the Cinematic Artbook from last year's BlizzCon so the idea of a magazine loaded with artwork and interviews and all that jazz makes me very excited. What about you, constant readers, will you be tempted to subscribe?

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Breakfast Topic: Will you subscribe to the World of Warcraft Magazine? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art-of-the-world-of-warcraftartbookblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbreakfast-topiccinematic-artbookfutureworld-of-warcraft-the-magazine (Lesley Smith) Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[European weekly maintenance: 26th August 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/european-weekly-maintenance-26th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/european-weekly-maintenance-26th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/european-weekly-maintenance-26th-august-2009/#comments So BlizzCon is over for another year and the road to Cataclysm stretches out in front of us. In Azeroth, things continue as they always do. Wednesday, as every WoW player in Europe knows, is maintenance day and Blizzard have just announced their plans. Tomorrow will see scheduled maintenance, meaning all European realms will be offline from 3:00am until 11:00am (CEST). On top of that, a selection of realms will be getting extended maintenance to hopefully fix that annoying instance-launching problem.

Aerie Peak, Anachronos, Boulderfist, Chamber of Aspects, Eonar, Frostmane, Grim Batol, Jaedenar, Kazzak, Kilrogg, Outland, Ravenholdt, Saurfang, Tarren Mill, Vek'nilash and Wildhammer will all be offline from 1:00am to 3:00pm (CEST) on Wednesday, and also from 3:00am to 7:00am on Thursday 27th August. The sheer length of this maintenance means that hopefully Blizzard might be close to cracking it, so hang on in there, okay?

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European weekly maintenance: 26th August 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 06:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzardeuropeeuropean-maintenanceeuropean-weekly-maintenanceinstance-launchingrealm-status (Lesley Smith) Tue, 25 Aug 2009 06:55:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[BlizzCon 2009: Entering a brave new world]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/blizzcon-2009-entering-a-brave-new-world/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/blizzcon-2009-entering-a-brave-new-world/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/blizzcon-2009-entering-a-brave-new-world/#comments Chris Metzen, speaking during the World of Warcraft preview panel, revealed that Cataclysm will introduce seven new zones, on top of revamping the old world. This revamp changes both the game mechanics (adding the ability to fly anywhere) and the lore, as old zones are forever changed, both geographically and territorially. These new zones are:
  • Gilneas
  • Twilight Highlands
  • Deepholm
  • The Lost Isles
  • Sunken City of Vashj'ir
  • Mount Hyjal
  • Uldum

Continue reading BlizzCon 2009: Entering a brave new world

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BlizzCon 2009: Entering a brave new world originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 2009-blizzconblizzard-blizzconblizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009blizzcon-wowcataclysmcataclysm-racesdeepholmelemental-planesfeaturedgilneaslost-islessunken-city-of-vashjirthe-lost-islestwilight-highlandsuldumworld-of-warcraft-conventionwow-blizzconwow-convention (Lesley Smith) Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Cataclysm easter egg reveals Deathwing's musical side]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/cataclysm-easter-egg-reveals-deathwings-musical-side/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/cataclysm-easter-egg-reveals-deathwings-musical-side/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/cataclysm-easter-egg-reveals-deathwings-musical-side/#comments Blizzard is a cunning bunch and they seem to love easter eggs. No we're not talking lovely chocolatey orbs like the ones you find during Noblegarden, rather that they like hiding artwork in plain sight and waiting for us to click on it. Tucked away in the Cataclysm official site is the kind of artwork which practically demands to end up on a T shirt. Yes, Deathwing is actually the sixth member of The Artists Formally Known as Level 80 Elite Tauren Chieftain (aka TAFKAL80ETC or that funny Prince-like symbol with the Horde sigil at its center). Oh and he plays the piano. Who knew, eh?

You can find it by clicking here and looking for the small keyboard at the bottom of the page (it's in the middle underneath the artwork, just below the page indicator). Alternatively, if you want all the gratification and none of the work, click here to download the awesome high res version. We fully expect to see everyone wearing them come next year's BlizzCon rather than those three wolves howling at the moon.

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Cataclysm easter egg reveals Deathwing's musical side originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzcon2009cataclsm-easter-eggscataclysmcataclysm-websitedeathwingeaster-eggslevel-80-elite-tauren-chieftainnoblegardennoblegarden-2009TAFKAL80ETCthe-artists-formally-known-as-level-80-elite-tauren-chieftainthree-wolf-moon (Lesley Smith) Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: What do you think of new race and class combos?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-new-race-and-class-combos/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-new-race-and-class-combos/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-new-race-and-class-combos/#comments One of the big things announced at BlizzCon were the new class and race combinations. These were originally datamined from patch 3.2.2 and include everything from Gnome Priests and Goblin Rogues to Worgen Druids. I'm especially excited about the last one.

For years, the race you played has been indelibly linked with the class and defined how you play the game. Say, for example, you like playing Night Elves, you're limited class-wise to rolling Druid, Priests, Hunters, Rogues and Warriors. On the other hand, if it's a specific class then you are sometimes limited to a particular race. So Draenei are the only Alliance race which can current become Shamans while the same is true, Horde-side, for Blood Elves becoming Paladins.

From a lore perspective, there is little preventing any of these combos. This is especially true as Azeroth expands and the game evolves. But readers, this is new territory for us, as WoW becomes more open. What do you think of the possibility of lore-centric or even playable class and race combinations?

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Breakfast Topic: What do you think of new race and class combos? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> azerothblood-elvesblood-elves-paladinsbreakfast-topicbreakfast-topicscataclysmclassesdraeneidraenei-paladindwarf-shamanhuman-hunterlorenew-classnight-elf-magepatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-changespatch-3.2.2-wowrace-class-combinationrace-class-comboracesspeculationtauren-paladintauren-priesttroll-druidworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2wow-3.2.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2wow-patch-news (Lesley Smith) Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[BlizzCon 2009: How far along is the development of Cataclysm?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/23/blizzcon-2009-how-far-along-is-the-development-of-cataclysm/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/23/blizzcon-2009-how-far-along-is-the-development-of-cataclysm/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/23/blizzcon-2009-how-far-along-is-the-development-of-cataclysm/#comments We knew Cataclysm was coming, but it's nice to be able to play it. Today. At BlizzCon. Yes, rather than firing up the PTRs to let visitors kick Onyxia's butt (again) or proffering a glimpse of Arthas' defeat, attendees get their first taste of the new expansion set. How awesome is that? To be able to play the game this weekend, though, suggests that it's at a good stage in development. After all, Wrath was announced at BlizzCon 2007 but we didn't actually get to play it (at least the internal Friends and Family Alpha version) until the WWI in July 2008, nearly a year later.

Blizzard's Lead Level Designer on World of Warcraft, Cory Stockton, has stated that Cataclysm's development began before Wrath shipped (there's a surprise ...) but it's obviously futher along than many might have thought and then Mike Morhaime hesitantly confirmed the game was slated to be released in 2010 along with StarCraft II. So when exactly could we expect to see the third World of Warcraft expansion?

Continue reading BlizzCon 2009: How far along is the development of Cataclysm?

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BlizzCon 2009: How far along is the development of Cataclysm? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sun, 23 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 2009-blizzcon2009-blizzcon convention2009-blizzconConventionblizzard-blizzconblizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009blizzcon-wowcataclysmicecrown-citadelonyxiapatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-wowpatch-3.3the-burning-crusadethe-lich-kingworld-of-warcraft-conventionwow-blizzconwow-cataclysmwow-convention (Lesley Smith) Sun, 23 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[WoW Magazine site now live, hints at Doomhammer]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/wow-magazine-site-now-live-hints-at-doomhammer/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/wow-magazine-site-now-live-hints-at-doomhammer/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/wow-magazine-site-now-live-hints-at-doomhammer/#comments Coming from left field, much to the surprise of everyone here at Team WoW.com, was the announcement of World of Warcraft: The Magazine which will be published by Future later this year. As promised, the website for the subscription-only quarterly went live in the wee small hours of this morning (GMT).

You're probably scratching your heads and wondering why we're mentioning this when there's all the BlizzCon fun and games to talk about. Well, amonght other things, there's a really nice piece of artwork of the Lich King by Wei Wang, who we believe is going to be named the Eighth Son of the Storm at BlizzCon.

On top of that are the first hints at what the first issue will contain: a piece on the game's fifth anniversary (which suggests we may well see it around November time), articles focusing on new content (which I'm assuming is either code for Cataclysm or a peek at patch 3.3), and the lore behind the legendary weapon Doomhammer.

This is probably the entry which is going to have theorists asking intriguing questions. The Doomhammer is currently held by Thrall, and it's one of those uber weapons which most players want to get their hands on but can't get (because it's not actually implemented). It turns out this weapon will be the next 'Frostmourne', a replica weapon that if you have the cash you will be able to purchase and hang on your wall to confirm your hardcoreness.

Either way, check out the website and hit the link to subscribe if you like what you see. Alternatively, if you're at BlizzCon this weekend, you can visit the Future booth and do it there.
BlizzCon 2009 is here! WoW.com has continuing coverage, bringing you the latest in Cataclysm news, live blogs, galleries, and reports right from the convention floor. Check out WoW.com's Guide to BlizzCon for the latest!

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WoW Magazine site now live, hints at Doomhammer originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmdoomhammerfifth-anniversaryfuturefuture-publishingpatch-3.3sons-of-the-stormwei-wangworld-of-warcraft-the-magazinewow-fifth-anniversary (Lesley Smith) Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:20:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: What do you think of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-world-of-warcraft-catacly/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-world-of-warcraft-catacly/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-of-world-of-warcraft-catacly/#comments
They taunted, they teased, they insinuated and then, just as the ceremony was about to end, Chris Metzen finally dropped the bombshell and announced World of Warcraft: Cataclysm. Yeah we knew it was coming, we were -- to misquote Illidan -- prepared. Now, in the aftermath, we've had time to ruminate and digest all the information: Deathwing, the raised level cap, the guild leveling, heroic versions of Shadowfang Keep and Deadmines, a new secondary profession in the form of Archeology, two new races and seven new zones, a new (and broken) Azeroth and the ability to fly in the old world. Phew, that's a lot to digest. Even more information seems to be dripping out in panels and post-opening ceremony interviews.

So readers, we want to know what you think of Cataclysm. Are you pleased? Which bit excited you the most? Is it the new races or the promise of facing another insane Dragon Aspect? Are you scared by the drastic and irreversible changes that will befall Azeroth? Were you hoping for the Emerald Dream or a fully Maelstrom-centric expansion and feel like the Lost Isles and Vashj'ir are half measures? Tell us in the usual manner by dropping your thoughts and meditations in the comment box below.
BlizzCon 2009 is here! WoW.com has continuing coverage, bringing you the latest in Cataclysm news, live blogs, galleries, and reports right from the convention floor. Check out WoW.com's Guide to BlizzCon for the latest!

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Breakfast Topic: What do you think of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sat, 22 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 2009-blizzcon-conventionblizzard-blizzconblizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009blizzcon-wowbreakfast-topiccataclysmchris-metzendeadminesdeathwingemerald-dreamgoblingoblin-racemaelstromshadowfang-keepworgenworgen-raceworld-of-warcraft-conventionwow-blizzconwow-convention (Lesley Smith) Sat, 22 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Take a wander down memory lane with the History of Warcraft]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/take-a-wander-down-memory-lane-with-the-history-of-warcraft/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/take-a-wander-down-memory-lane-with-the-history-of-warcraft/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/take-a-wander-down-memory-lane-with-the-history-of-warcraft/#comments Just in time for the inevitable announcement of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, IGN have decided to turn in the opposite direction and take a peek at this history of this momumental franchise. They've posted an epic five-page retrospective feature on the entire Warcraft franchise as part of the run up to BlizzCon.

It looks at everything from the original game, Warcraft: Orcs and Humans, to the failed Thrall-centric loregasm that was Warcraft Adventures right on through to Warcraft II and III. Of course, they also look in detail at World of Warcraft and its two expansions, The Burning Crusade and Wrath of the Lich King.

If you only discovered the Warcraft franchise with WoW, as I did, it's a fascinating glimpse into one of gaming's biggest franchises. World of Warcraft is not just a game or a single mythology, it's the culmination of a decade of gaming history. So if you've got an hour to kill before the fun and games today, you might want to check this out.

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Take a wander down memory lane with the History of Warcraft originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzconblizzcon-2009ignretrospectivethe-burning-crusadethrallwarcraft-iiwarcraft-iiiwarcraft-orcs-and-humansworld-of-warcraftwrath-of-the-lich-king (Lesley Smith) Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[BlizzCon 2009: Don't forget to look for us]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/blizzcon-2009-dont-forget-to-look-for-us/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/blizzcon-2009-dont-forget-to-look-for-us/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/blizzcon-2009-dont-forget-to-look-for-us/#comments BlizzCon 2009 officially starts tomorrow and most of Team WoW.com are either in Anaheim or heading down there as we speak. As you make your way through throngs of people this Friday and Saturday, keep your eyes peeled for our intrepid crew. But how do you spot them? Granted, they're not like cosplayers. Although follow the throng of adoring women and you may just spot Turpster. The rest of the team are known for their ability to Shadowmeld instantly so we've had to equip them with some very special gear this BlizzCon.

You can get a good look at team at the meetup tonight, but if you can't make it and need a visual cue you can spot them on the convention floor by looking for their special BlizzCon gear: a Legendary and totally epic, limited edition T shirt (with +50 visibility) featuring a certain crab and that long-promised equine mount. So don't forget to mark them off like the rare spawns they are and come up and say "hi". They may even have a little something for you.
BlizzCon 2009 is coming up on August 21st and 22nd! We've got all the latest news and information. At BlizzCon you can play the latest games, meet your guildmates, and ask the developers your questions. Plus, there's some great looking costumes.

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BlizzCon 2009: Don't forget to look for us originally appeared on WoW Insider on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 2009-blizzconanabellaanaheimblizzard-blizzconblizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009blizzcon-wowconventionconvention-centerghostcrawlergiveawayshotellootmeetupponyreader-meetupt-shirtworld-of-warcraft-conventionwow-blizzconwow-comwow-conventionwow.com-editors (Lesley Smith) Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[European weekly maintenance: 19th August 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/european-weekly-maintenance-19th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/european-weekly-maintenance-19th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/european-weekly-maintenance-19th-august-2009/#comments
Greetings folks, the middle of the week beckons once more! Only a few more days until BlizzCon and the Big Reveal. Excited yet? Come on, be honest, we're all friends here. As the rest of Team WoW.com boards their planes, trains, automobiles and - in Turpster's case - boats to rendezvous in sunny LA, some of us (eg me) has to stay behind and cover things remotely. While it would be nice to be there, I get to watch all the cool stuff from the privacy of my own living room come office, enjoy my Grunty (in six to eight weeks) and work in a brightly lit room on a comfy chair. Oh, and no blisters.

So, it's maintenance time. Thankfully, it's a brief week with a live maintenance (yes folks it's rolling restart time) for all realms between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. CEST. As per usual every realm will receive the customary fifteen minute notice prior to being restarted. There we go, nice and simple. If my beloved cats let me (ha!), I'm sleeping right through this one but if you happen to be up an about, don't forget there's a lot to catch up on this week from the return of the Broodmother to the appearance of the patch 3.2.2 PTR servers.

See you on the other side!

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European weekly maintenance: 19th August 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009blizzcon-scheduledirect-tveuropean-maintenanceeuropean-weekly-maintenancegruntygrunty-the-murloc-marineonyxiaonyxia-wowonyxias-lairpatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-changespatch-3.2.2-ptrpatch-3.2.2-wow (Lesley Smith) Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:50:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[WoW currently free to play in China, fate still being decided by government]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/wow-is-free-to-play-in-china-fate-still-being-decided-by-govern/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/wow-is-free-to-play-in-china-fate-still-being-decided-by-govern/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/wow-is-free-to-play-in-china-fate-still-being-decided-by-govern/#comments The trials and tribulations continue for Chinese MMO players, WoW, and its new Chinese provider NetEase. IncGamers is reporting that the beta of the game is continuing - effectively making the game free to play for those lucky enough to be taking part - while the Chinese government decides if enough changes have been made, such as the removal of corpses, gore and other unpleasant parts of the MMO experience, for the game to get a Chinese relaunch.

Since handing over the baton from from The9, things have not gone very well. After an extended hiatus which saw the game's servers offline while the data was transferred over, the game is still awaiting the final go-ahead from GAPP (the General Administration of Press and Publication). The beta was originally supposed to last around a week but because of the delay has been going on for nearly a month. However IncGamers is also reporting that according to NetEase, all the internal testing has been completed and once the GAPP are done, the game should launch pretty quickly.

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WoW currently free to play in China, fate still being decided by government originally appeared on WoW Insider on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> chinachinese-wowgappgeneral-administration-of-press-and-publicationneteasenetease.comofflineserverstaiwanthe9world-of-warcraftwowwow-china (Lesley Smith) Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: Which boss would you revamp for level 80?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/breakfast-topic-which-boss-would-revamp-for-level-80/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/breakfast-topic-which-boss-would-revamp-for-level-80/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/breakfast-topic-which-boss-would-revamp-for-level-80/#comments With news that the Broodmother herself is returning for WoW's fifth anniversary and patch 3.2.2, it got me thinking about other old world bosses which could be revamped. Now don't get me wrong, I totally get that Onyxia is a one-time thing this expansion. All fun and no lore, to paraphrase one of our commentators, Maxim. But the concept is ripe for a Breakfast Topic, after all Onyxia is a classic raid but she wasn't the only one. Granted, she remains the most popular and the most legendary, the raid itself was almost a reward for completing what has to be the game's most epic quest chain. And then there was the loot, the lovely legendary (if not in colour) loot. Excuse me while I drool.

So lets say, hypothetically, you could bring back any lower level boss for a short time period aimed at level 80s. Which would you choose? Personally I'd love to see the Dragons of Nightmare, simply because they were so epic. Indeed, they are still a challenge to down today, especially with that annoying debuff. I also live in hope of seeing something of the Emerald Dream soon but that's for another day. So, constant readers, if you could have one boss return revamped for a hardcore level 80 raid, which would it be?

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Breakfast Topic: Which boss would you revamp for level 80? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dragons-of-nightmareemerald-dreamfive-year-anniversarylootonyxiaonyxia-whelplingonyxia-wowonyxias-lairpatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-wowraidraidingraidswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2 world-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2Wow-patch-3.2.2World-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2 (Lesley Smith) Sun, 16 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: What bosses do you think we'll be facing in Icecrown Citadel?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/breakfast-topic-what-bosses-do-you-think-well-be-facing-in-ice/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/breakfast-topic-what-bosses-do-you-think-well-be-facing-in-ice/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/breakfast-topic-what-bosses-do-you-think-well-be-facing-in-ice/#comments Icecrown Citadel is calling. Can you hear it, whispering in the wind?

It's been an imposing figure ever since Wrath was launched, a reminder of why we're in Northrend in the first place and our ultimate goal. With Patch 3.3 inching ever closer, Ghostcrawler's revelation, although sarcastic, certainly set me thinking. We might not be facing thirty one bosses but look at the size of the place. There's no way Arthas is rattling around there on his own. Oh no, that would be too simple. Two of those we can guess: Arthas himself and Malgyos' resurrected mate, Sindragosa. She's been leering at us from the login screen since day one (technically since before then actually) so for her not to be included as a raid boss is simply unthinkable. I'm wondering if she will be the Lich King's Sapphiron.

I'm betting, while not as huge as GC originally said, that Icecrown Citadel is still going to be big and complex. Probably somewhere between Karazhan and Ulduar in terms of bosses. It's going to be epic and certainly not a walk in the park. Especially as this will be the end of the Wrath storyline and the last big patch before the next expansion, so it's got to be a challenge that won't be beaten in a couple of days.

So, constant readers, who do you think we'll be facing? Will Kel'Thuzzad return again or will we be seeing totally new bosses to test us before facing the Lich King himself?

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Breakfast Topic: What bosses do you think we'll be facing in Icecrown Citadel? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> breakfast-topicghostcrawlericecrown-citadelpatch-3.3sindragosathe-lich-kingwow-patch-3.2wow-patch-3.3 (Lesley Smith) Sat, 15 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Patch 3.2.2 PTR: First impresssions of Onyxia]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-first-impresssions-of-onyxia/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-first-impresssions-of-onyxia/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-first-impresssions-of-onyxia/#comments
Onyxia. Pictures, text and video cannot express the emotions associated with this classic boss fight. I'm going to try nevertheless, though. Announced mere days ago, the idea that Onyxia will be revamped into a level 80 10 and 25 man raid (for a limited time) has suddenly become reality with the return of PTR testing for patch 3.2.2. Everyone and their best mate is currently swarming Onyxia's Lair, determined to dispatch the Broodmother once more. This time for kicks and enhanced loot.

Her name is reverberating around the PTR right now. In fact, within three seconds of logging on with my premade I was asked if I wanted to join a 10-man raid to kick her scaly butt. Of course I accepted and found myself once more outside the scary gates of the Broodmother's lair. Let's me be straight about one thing, the only things which have been changed about this fight are the suped-up uber-trashkin and Onyxia herself. There's no need for a key or attunement, you just grab a raid and walk right on in. The cavern leading into her lair is the same as it ever was, except the trash now have the power to kick serious butt against level 80's wearing full epics. Such is the case, our group wiped the first time we pulled two of the dragonkin.


Gallery: First Look: Onyxia on the 3.2.2 PTR

Continue reading Patch 3.2.2 PTR: First impresssions of Onyxia

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Patch 3.2.2 PTR: First impresssions of Onyxia originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> breakingfifth-anniversaryonyxiaonyxias-lairpatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-wowpublic-test-realmpublic-test-realmspublic-test-serverraidingworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2wow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2 (Lesley Smith) Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:30:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[PTR Patch 3.2.2: New pets and mounts revealed]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-new-pets-and-mounts-revealed/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-new-pets-and-mounts-revealed/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ptr-patch-3-2-2-new-pets-and-mounts-revealed/#comments
Once again, our friend Boubouille over at MMO Champion has been a busy boy. With the surprise announcement that the PTRs were up for the testing of the WoW Anniversary Patch (aka patch 3.2.2), he's been digging deep into the patch files and guess what he found?

Well the big news is aptly summed up in the image above. Yes, it's the Onyxia mount (though not actually the Broodmother herself). A picture really does say a thousand words, doesn't it? However that's not all he's found by datamining. There are yet more mounts, including a Spectral Tiger cub! I suspect this little cub may well be from a future TCG expansion. After all, where did this little guy's parent come from? Ditto the rather awesome Tuskarr kite.

On top of that there are some regular mounts in the form of a Little White Stallion and yet another dino-centric mount, this time a Little Ivory Raptor. Boubouille also found the Onyxia Whelping, which is the pet everyone who logs in during November will recieve (think the Blizzard Bear). Ain't it a cutie?

However the oddest thing he uncovered was a collection of Mohawk themed spells. These relate to the now memorable TV advert in which Mr. T creates his own class, the infamous Night Elf Mohawk. From the spell descriptions, I can't help thinking this is not some hint towards a new class in the next expansion but, rather, will be some kind of NPC or quest-related summonable pet. Either way, it sounds awesome.

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PTR Patch 3.2.2: New pets and mounts revealed originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> baby-blizzard-bearboubouillefifth-anniversarylittle-ivory-raptor-mountlittle-stallion-mountmmo-championmr-tmr-t-gamenight-elf-mohawkonyxiaonyxia-mountonyxia-whelplingonyxia-wowonyxias-lairptr-patch-3.2.2spectral-tiger--cub-mountspectral-tiger-mounttcgtcg-loottuskarr-kiteworld-of-warcraft-ptr-patch-3.2.2wow-new-patchwow-patchwow-ptr-patch-3.2.2 (Lesley Smith) Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: What do you think about Onyxia's return?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-about-onyxias-return/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-about-onyxias-return/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/breakfast-topic-what-do-you-think-about-onyxias-return/#comments Onyxia is one of the greatest NPCs of vanilla WoW, from a lore, quest chain and raid perspective. Hands up how many of you have done the quest line to completion? Who visited Blackrock Spire? Who unmasked Katrana Prestor as the giant black Broodmother she truly was? Who got the key and then headed into the depths of Dustwallow Marsh? Who survived? Given my dragon fixation/interest/obsession, I was always keen to kill her. I would have completed the quest chain but for a little bug on the final quest. Still, it was easy enough to nip in once the need for a key and attunement was dropped. Then Varian Wrynn finished her off.

And now she's back. I don't understand it either but finding out is certainly going to be exciting. Plus there's finally a 310% dragon mount that I actually want. So, constant readers, what do you think about this revelation? How do you think she will be brought back into the picture? Is it just something to keep us entertained until patch 3.3 or could it be part of the bigger picture? After all, this announcement has come just over a week before BlizzCon. It's gotta mean something, right?

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Breakfast Topic: What do you think about Onyxia's return? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzcon-09blizzcon-2009breakfast-topickatrana-prestoronyxiaonyxias-lairpatch-3.2.2patch-3.3raid (Lesley Smith) Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[WoW Patch 3.2.2 PTR is up for the EU]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/wow-patch-3-2-2-ptr-is-up-for-the-eu/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/wow-patch-3-2-2-ptr-is-up-for-the-eu/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/wow-patch-3-2-2-ptr-is-up-for-the-eu/#comments Wow, okay, we didn't see that coming, at least not this fast. European Blue Wryxian announced this morning on the official forums that the PTRs are back up for testing patch 3.2.2. Character copy is up for both pre-mades and your own characters (the wait time is currently an hour but this is definitely going to change). There are four realms being offered, two PvP and two PvE: Remulos, Brill, Fordring and Naralex. So far, the PTRs seem limited to EU-only but we're sure America can't be far behind. We'll update you with more as we have more but in the meantime, if you have a European account, click here to download the client and copy over a character.

WoW.com is currently hopping onto the PTR as quickly as we can to find anything and everything we can, so keep an eye on the site.

Update: Patch notes are in the process of going up. We'll have them over here on WoW.com as well as soon as we're able.

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WoW Patch 3.2.2 PTR is up for the EU originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 05:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> europeeuropean-newspatch-3.2.2patch-3.2.2-changespatch-3.2.2-wowprt-3.2.2ptrworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2.2wow-3.2.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2.2wow-patch-newswryxian (Lesley Smith) Fri, 14 Aug 2009 05:04:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: How phasing could be used in-game]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/breakfast-topic-how-phasing-could-be-used-in-game/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/breakfast-topic-how-phasing-could-be-used-in-game/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/breakfast-topic-how-phasing-could-be-used-in-game/#comments Phasing seems to be Blizzard's new favorite toy. It's being used be more and more as we progress through Wrath. From the Wrathgate to those annoying out of body/spirit quests in Zul'Drak, phasing is changing how we see Azeroth itself. But it strikes me there's once area where phasing should sometimes be used and isn't: bosses. Specifically I mean the big guys ... Kil'Jaeden, Illidan, Loken, Yoggy, Algalon and, of course, Arthas himself.

The logic here is simple, these are bosses key to game lore and killing them not only takes an enormous amount of effort (or in the case of Kil'Jaeden, banishing him back to where ever he came from) but it also has an effect on the world itself. Think of the impacts the events of the Sunwell had - phasing was never implemented there, and definitely should have been once Wrath was released.

Now I know you will be thinking: "Why should we only kill a boss once?" I'm not suggesting that once you kill the Lich King, for example, you are locked out of killing him again. Rather that his death triggers a change in Azeroth - which is where the phasing comes in. Icecrown Citadel could collapse or be recycled by other NPCs, such as the Ebon Blade. Once this happens, you could then walk in, click on an NPC and 'relive' the fight in the form of a new raid. The same thing could be done with the Sunwell, for example, and it could open up a new quest chain and further the game's lore in new and fantastic ways.

We've already seen how phasing can change Northrend, just look at how it's used post-Wrathgate. How do you think it could be used (particularly considering that the new expansion is called Cataclysm) to change how we play, the bosses we kill, and how we raid?

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Breakfast Topic: How phasing could be used in-game originally appeared on WoW Insider on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> algalonalgalon-the-observercataclysmebon-bladekil-jaedenkiljaedenpatch-3.3phasingphasing-technologysunwellthe-lich-kingwow-cataclysmwrathgateyogg-saron (Lesley Smith) Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[How the "Summon Memory" fight in the Trial of the Champion should have been done]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/how-the-summon-memory-fight-in-the-trial-of-the-champion-shoul/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/how-the-summon-memory-fight-in-the-trial-of-the-champion-shoul/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/how-the-summon-memory-fight-in-the-trial-of-the-champion-shoul/#comments
Responses to the implementation of Patch 3.2 have been pretty mixed. I've been trying to see as much of it as I can. I loved Children's Week, for example, but over the weekend, I ventured into Trial of the Champion, the new 5-man content in the Crusaders' Coliseum. My curiosity had been piqued by talk of Hogger as a raid boss and whispers of the power to fight Illidan and Lucifron. Now, having never ventured into either Molton Core or Black Temple, I was quite keen to experience the encounter for myself. So I grouped with my guildies (who all seem quite addicted to the quick runs, easy fight and shiny loot) and headed into the unknown.

I was already aware that Trial of the Champion sees you fighting a bunch of champions on horseback, then getting either Eadric the Pure of High Confessor Paletress. We, luckily, got the latter. I like Paletress. She's an intriguing character as well as an epitome of goodness who's not afraid to fight for her beliefs. She also has the coolest attack in the Trial: she summons the memory of a past encounter. This was the bit I was waiting for and when Onyxia appeared, I was momentarily stunned.

Continue reading How the "Summon Memory" fight in the Trial of the Champion should have been done

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How the "Summon Memory" fight in the Trial of the Champion should have been done originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> crusaders-coliseumeadric-the-purehigh-confessor-paletressonyxiapatch-3.2trial-of-the-championwaking-nightmare (Lesley Smith) Tue, 11 Aug 2009 20:06:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[European weekly maintenance: 12th August 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/european-weekly-maintenance-12th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/european-weekly-maintenance-12th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/european-weekly-maintenance-12th-august-2009/#comments
Happy Tuesday to our European readers! We're nearly halfway through August, BlizzCon is just 10 days away and we already know what races we'll be playing in the next expansion. The sun is shining and the internet is thrumming with promise of something Cataclysmic approaching. It can't get any better than that! I'm already thinking of names for my alts. Any suggestions?

(Note to self: hyperactivity in posts is not a good thing. You might want to start drinking coffee to mask the new-expansion-news-high.)

But back to reality for a minute. As usual, the middle of the week is once more upon us. Fortunately things are starting to calm down. Blizzard have just announced scheduled maintenance for tomorrow with all European realms will be offline from 3:00am until 11:00am (CEST). On top of this, a selection of 'lucky' realms will be undergoing an extended maintenance from 1:00am until 11:00am (CEST):

Alonsus, Anachronos, Bronze Dragonflight, Burning Steppes, Darkmoon Faire, Darkspear, Kor'gall and Lightbringer.

That said, it's not too bad as extended down time goes. But as always there's plenty to do in the meantime, especially as we've told you which faction will be getting which race in Cataclysm. Daniel W. has a great post summing everything up from news to hints about Patch 3.3.

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European weekly maintenance: 12th August 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> europeeuropean-realmseuropean-serverseuropean-weekly-maintenancepatch-3.3 (Lesley Smith) Tue, 11 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: So what do you think of patch 3.2?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/09/breakfast-topic-so-what-do-you-think-of-patch-3-2/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/09/breakfast-topic-so-what-do-you-think-of-patch-3-2/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/09/breakfast-topic-so-what-do-you-think-of-patch-3-2/#comments
It's been an interesting week in Azeroth with Call of the Crusade finally landing on live servers. Patch 3.2 did bring with it another painful bout of maintenance for everyone involved that seemed to go one forever. However its offerings were certainly plentiful! After an age of waiting for the European realms to pop up, I appeared in Dalaran to find most of the server surrounding Matron Aria in an attempt to get the Wolvar/Oracle orphans (I went with Kekek, if you must know), the rest were swarming the Argent Tournament grounds and pushing and shoving to get into the new instance.

Top of my list was to try out the new Druid forms and then get my hair colored. The rest of my guild made a beeline for "the new place" (aka the Coliseum) or moaning about the buffing/nerfing of such and such a class. So, constant readers, what did you do first? More importantly, what do you think of the patch? I admit I'm still sitting on the fence, there were some nice additions but I'm still a heck of a lot more interested in patch 3.3. Tell us in the usual fashion by dropping your thoughts in the box below.

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Breakfast Topic: So what do you think of patch 3.2? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Sun, 09 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> breakfast-topiccall-of-the-crusadecoliseumdruid-formsmaintenancenorthrend-childrens-weekoraclesoracles-orphanspatch-3.2patch-3.2-wowpatch-3.3wolvarwolvar-orphans (Lesley Smith) Sun, 09 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: Looking forward to patch 3.3 and the next expansion]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/breakfast-topic-looking-forward-to-patch-3-3-and-the-next-expan/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/breakfast-topic-looking-forward-to-patch-3-3-and-the-next-expan/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/breakfast-topic-looking-forward-to-patch-3-3-and-the-next-expan/#comments So patch 3.2, aka Call of the Crusade, aka the Last Biggie Before Icecrown, has finally dropped. Yay. Woo hoo. Check out the doves we just released. But wait, just take a moment to gawp at the new content. Go on, you deserve it. Hogger's waiting for you, we understand.

Oh hi! Back already? So, let's look forward to the future shall we? BlizzCon is mere weeks away (excited yet?) and we know with that lovely fanboy/girl certainty -- normally reserved for predicting tomorrow's sunrise -- that the next expansion is going to be announced.

So, to speak of the future. I'm convinced patch 3.3 will hit before Christmas (I'm guessing around November to coincide with the Warcraft: Death Knight manga). So where does that put us for the new expansion? I can't see Blizzard waiting a year for the next expansion, not without any new content. But, I digress. Patch 3.3 is now officially incoming, it doesn't have a name or an ETA but it's coming. Can you feel it in the air? So readers, what do you think patch 3.3 will herald, aside from Sindragosa and the showdown with Arthas?

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Breakfast Topic: Looking forward to patch 3.3 and the next expansion originally appeared on WoW Insider on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blizzconblizzcon-09blizzcon-2009breakfast-topicexpansionexpansion-threehoggerhogger-raid-bosspatch-3.2patch-3.2-wowpatch-3.3warcraft-death-knightwarcraft-manga (Lesley Smith) Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: Blurring the boundaries between patches and expansions]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/breakfast-topic-blurring-the-boundaries-between-patches-and-exp/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/breakfast-topic-blurring-the-boundaries-between-patches-and-exp/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/breakfast-topic-blurring-the-boundaries-between-patches-and-exp/#comments In the good old days, expansions came around once in a blue moon. They were the stuff of legend which invited almost two years of hype and intrigue. You paid your dollars/pounds/euros/yuan, and you got your new classes, those shiny new zones and those ten extra levels. But, with patch 3.0.2 (aka Echoes of Doom) we got something new, we got transition. Yes, this was the patch where we got a sampling of Wrath designed to tease players waiting on tender hooks and also keep interest for that final week until the expansions hit properly.

Given Blizzard's shift in how they treat patches, now geared towards larger mini expansion style updates like patch 2.4 and patch 3.2, there's definitely something changing in the way we get new installments of the game. After all, there's as much hype about every mini expansion-like patch, from the new areas, class buffs/nerfs and weapons to the smaller changes involving the UI. Shiny expansion special editions aside, do you think it would ever be possible to have expansions become automatically downloaded massive patch updates over a standalone disc or download that you have to buy every two years? What do you think, readers?

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Breakfast Topic: Blurring the boundaries between patches and expansions originally appeared on WoW Insider on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> breakfast-topiccollectors-editioncollectors-editionsexpansionspatchpatch-3.0patch-3.0.2patch-3.1patch-3.2patches (Lesley Smith) Wed, 05 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[UPDATE: European extended weekly maintenance: 5th August 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/european-extended-weekly-maintenance-5th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/european-extended-weekly-maintenance-5th-august-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/european-extended-weekly-maintenance-5th-august-2009/#comments
Well, it's hardly a surprise that tomorrow will see European players getting our grubby hands on patch 3.2. That said, there's something almost magical about seeing the Breaking News box change and contain those magical words. And, of course, the added bonus is that our US compatriots get to be guinea pigs when it comes to implementation. Though we have had our own share of maintenance issues over the last couple of weeks.

So tomorrow's maintenance is going to be the extended variety (for obvious reasons). Blizzard have announced all the realms here in Europa will be offline between 3:00am and 11:00am CEST. After that, if the gaming gods are willing, we should be able to go explore all the new content and start counting the days till patch 3.3. Personally I'm going to be scrutinizing my new-look Druid forms and, if needed, visiting the barber for a haircut. Don't forget to check out our comprehensive Call of the Crusade guide and the official patch notes while you're waiting.

Update: Given all the US issues yesterday, it's really no surprise that Blizzard is taking a little longer with our maintenance. They've now announced all realms will be offline until 3:00pm CEST.

WoW's Patch 3.2 ushers in the Crusaders' Coliseum, the Isle of Conquest, flying mounts at 60, and much more. WoW.com has all the patch information your Worgen obsessed mind can handle in WoW.com's Guide to Patch 3.2!

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UPDATE: European extended weekly maintenance: 5th August 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> breakingcall-of-the-crusadedruidseuropean-extended-maintenancepatch-3.2patch-3.2-changespatch-3.2-wowrealm-statuswow-3.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2 world-of-warcraft-patch-3.2Wow-patch-3.2World-of-warcraft-patch-3.2wow-patch-news (Lesley Smith) Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:20:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[European weekly maintenance: 29th July 2009]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/european-weekly-maintenance-29th-july-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/european-weekly-maintenance-29th-july-2009/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/european-weekly-maintenance-29th-july-2009/#comments
It's the middle of the week again and once more unto the breach, my friends. Yes, tomorrow is maintenance Wednesday for European players. Fortunately, we told you this morning how EU Blue Wryxian had spilled the beans on the reason for all the recent rolling restarts and weeks of extended maintenance for a few select realms. I always find it's easier to exercise more patience once someone proffers a reason.

So, this week it's time for some rolling restarts. These will take place on all realms between 5:00am and 7:00am CEST, with the usual fifteen minute warning. The following realms (the same will be undergoing an extended maintenance from 3:00am until 11:00 am CEST.

Continue reading European weekly maintenance: 29th July 2009

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European weekly maintenance: 29th July 2009 originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> eu-weekly-maintenanceeuropeeuropean-weekly-maintenancerealm-maintenancerealm-status (Lesley Smith) Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Breakfast Topic: Will you buy the TCG mounts now they're no longer BoP?]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/breakfast-topic-will-you-buy-the-tcg-mounts-now-theyre-no-long/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/breakfast-topic-will-you-buy-the-tcg-mounts-now-theyre-no-long/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/breakfast-topic-will-you-buy-the-tcg-mounts-now-theyre-no-long/#comments
Earlier in the week, we mentioned that mounts from the WoW Trading Card Game are no longer Bind on Pickup. Do you hear that ever-advancing noise? That thunderous roar? That's the sound of a million collectors cheering their little hearts out. Ever the boon and bane of the die-hard mount addict, these cards have been known to fetch a pretty price on eBay and have been the subject of recent scams. Indeed as the owner of El Pollo Grande, the Big Battle Bear (aka The Red Bearon) and both forms of the X-51 Nether Rocket, I can relate. I really want the infamous Spectral Tiger and now, for the right sum of gold, it seems like I could have a chance.

So I wonder, constant readers, does this change mean you will finally be able to get your hands on a mount without paying top dollar on an auction website? How much exactly, while we're at it, would you be willing to pay with in-game gold for a mount? Why do you think Blizzard have implemented this system? Is it just another gold sink or the answer to many players' prayers?
Patch 3.2 will bring about a new 5, 10, and 25 man instance to WoW, and usher in a new 40-man battleground called the Isle of Conquest. WoW.com will have you covered every step of the way, from extensive PTR coverage through the official live release. Check out WoW.com's Guide to Patch 3.2 for all the latest!

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Breakfast Topic: Will you buy the TCG mounts now they're no longer BoP? originally appeared on WoW Insider on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bear-mountbreakfast-topicchicken-mountel-pollo-grandemountsnether-rocketpatch-3.2patch-3.2-changespatch-3.2-wowred-bearonrocket-mountspectral-tigerswift-spectral-tigerworld-of-warcraft-patch-3.2wow-3.2-changeswow-new-patchwow-patchwow-patch-3.2wow-patch-news (Lesley Smith) Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST WoW Insider <![CDATA[Brad Pitt offers advice on dealing with your WoW wife]]> http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/brad-pitt-offers-advice-on-dealing-with-your-wow-wife/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/brad-pitt-offers-advice-on-dealing-with-your-wow-wife/ http://wow.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/brad-pitt-offers-advice-on-dealing-with-your-wow-wife/#comments As part of the latest issue of WIRED magazine and to tie in with the release of war movie Inglourious Basterds, Brad Pitt has contributed his thoughts to a section in the magazine on how to deal with everything from Google-stalking to WoW.

The idea of this seems to be updating social rules for the twenty-first century (and not make you look like a jackass). He's responsible for the 'Ask a Basterd' sections which feature fun photography and answers life's insanely important questions, like what to do with your WoW wife if you suspect she is, in fact, a he.

Pitt suggests the following should you suspect your 'wife' (night elf, blood elf or even human, I doubt it matters on the specifics) is actually a guy. Yes, he's playing the fidelity card: Should you confront the individual? "Absolutely not. If it's good, don't check under the hood. I say, love her with everything you've got. I mean, she's your wife, man!"

What I want to know is, does Pitt play WoW and is his advice based on real experience? Somehow I see him as an Orc ...

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Brad Pitt offers advice on dealing with your WoW wife originally appeared on WoW Insider on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> brad-pittinglourious-basterdsmarriedmmo-matrimonywiredwired-magazinewow-marriagewow-matrimonywow-wife (Lesley Smith) Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST WoW Insider