5 Major Updates That Will Transform World of Warcraft: Forever Beta

World of Warcraft: Forever’s beta just received a significant update that rolled out yesterday. As is typical with beta updates, this one addressed numerous bugs, adjusted various stats, aimed to balance classes, and introduced a few new quirks (as updates often do). However, there are also some noteworthy changes to the gameplay that might entice players to dive back in if they’ve been waiting for the final launch.

The full patch notes are available for those who enjoy digging into the details, but here are the key highlights that might catch your interest:

Previously, the level cap in the WoW: Forever beta was set at 20, but it has now been raised to 30. This change allows players to explore and quest in many more zones than before, and it also opens up access to new dungeons, including…

Excavation Site: Wetlands, a brand-new dungeon for players level 26 and above, is now available. Additionally, Razorfen Downs (level 25+) and Uldaman (level 30+) have been unlocked, adding to the existing lineup of lower-level dungeons. In total, three of the nine promised new dungeons in WoW: Forever are now accessible, with the Hall of Thanes (level 13+) and Ruins of Lordaeron (level 15+) already open.

Excavation Site: Wetlands can be found in the southern central part of Wetlands, atop a previously inaccessible hill, now connected by a new road.

The beloved Mulgore questline, Kyle’s Gone Missing!, has made its return to Forever! Originally introduced during a Make-A-Wish visit to Blizzard HQ by Ezra Chatterton in 2007, this quest was co-designed by Chatterton, who voiced the tauren asking for help to find his dog. Although Chatterton has sadly passed away, his quest continues to thrive in both retail and now in Forever.

Now, onto a more contentious update. The patch note states:

Developers’ notes: We appreciate the feedback on leveling speed as we continue ongoing discussions about the Beta. As part of those discussions, we’ve decided to reduce the amount of XP granted from dungeon quests with this release. Certain quest rewards have also been recalibrated. Dungeon quests now reward 50% less extra experience beyond normal quest values.

In essence, the experience rewards for dungeon quests have been reduced, making it slower to level up by completing these quests. Players have mixed reactions to this change: some are worried that it diminishes the appeal of dungeons, given the effort required to assemble a group and complete them, while others believe that players are simply too eager to reach max level and need to take their time (after all, life is meant to be enjoyed!).

Ultimately, the true impact of this change on gameplay will be revealed as players engage with the beta. The actual rewards from dungeons may vary significantly in the final version of the game.

“Anduin Wrynn – and many other children – unintentionally have hats. We’re in the process of removing them, but they keep giggling and running away, so this is going to take a while.”

Wait, what? Let’s unpack that:

Oh, got it.

Uh huh, okay.

Sure, why not! That’s game development for you!