Your First Steps in Forever
Understand rulesets, character choices, and the shape of the journey before setting out.
Pre-launch preview · Beginner
Based on Blizzard's preview ↗World of Warcraft: Forever returns to the original continents with new areas and stories. Blizzard describes it as a level 1–60 journey, with a world that will continue to grow over time. This guide covers the choices to consider before you begin.
For the global release time, subscription requirements, and a practical setup checklist, see WoW Forever Launch Time and First-Day Checklist.
Choose a ruleset together
Forever uses rulesets rather than a conventional realm selection. Each ruleset has its own grouping and community ecosystem. If you want to adventure with friends, coordinate your ruleset and faction first.
Blizzard says players cannot freely move a character between rulesets, so this choice matters when planning with friends. An exception is described for a deceased Hardcore character after Hardcore becomes available. See the official ruleset guide for details.
| Ruleset | What Blizzard describes |
|---|---|
| Normal | Focus on adventuring against monsters; player combat is at your discretion. |
| PvP | Focus on player-versus-player combat; opposing players can attack you in most situations. |
| Roleplay | Naming and behavior rules support playing as a character in the world. |
| Roleplay PvP | Roleplay rules combined with a world focused on player-versus-player combat. |
Blizzard has announced Hardcore for a later date, not launch. Check the launch overview for the latest availability.
Choose your hero
There are nine classes, each with a distinct identity. Race and class combinations vary, so check the official race and class tables before settling on a character. Our class explorer is a useful place to compare their broad playstyles.
Follow the road at your pace
Blizzard has described new and reimagined zones across the Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor, including the Riverglades, Mount Hyjal, Shen’dralas, and Zephras Isle. The world is intended to reward the journey as well as the destination; take time to explore and meet other players.
About the Skyborne
The Skyborne can join either faction and begin on Zephras Isle. Available class choices differ by faction. Blizzard states that access to the Skyborne and their starting experience requires the Skyborne Heroic Pack or a higher eligible edition. Check the official overview for current details.
What to explore next
- Compare the nine new dungeons by level and location.
- Understand Legacy points, perks, and rewards.
- Learn how a campsite works.
This is a pre-launch overview based on Blizzard’s announcements. Features and availability may change.
Based on Blizzard's published preview. Guide updated November 2, 2026; details may change and should be checked against the live game.
Read the official source ↗