INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the exciting world of Warcraft, a massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). It is an expansive, immersive virtual universe where players around the globe connect and play together, creating an exhilarating and unique experience. As this guide is aimed at beginners, rest assured that we will be walking through everything you need to know, breaking down the myriad aspects step by step.
WHAT IS WORLD OF WARCRAFT?
World of Warcraft, often abbreviated WoW, was released in 2004 by Blizzard Entertainment. It has since grown into the world’s largest and most well-known MMORPG. WoW is set in a fantasy universe, heavily influenced by Tolkien’s Middle Earth, with a rich lore and backstory. Its core gameplay involves completing quests, exploring new territories, interacting with other players, and gaining experience to upgrade your character. It has a large and dedicated player base due to its engaging gameplay and complex world-building.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
At its core, WoW operates like many other MMORPGs. First, you’ll need to pick a server, which is essentially which copy of the game world you’ll be playing in. Within the server, you create a character which belongs to either of the two opposing factions: The Alliance or The Horde.
Creating a character involves choosing a race and a class. Each race and class has unique racial traits and abilities, which will subtly shape how you play the game. Through gameplay, you’ll gain experience points, level up your character, acquire new skills, and find or earn upgraded equipment. Completing quests rewards you with valuable XP, currency, and sometimes, equipment. The more powerful your character becomes, the more of the intricate world of Warcraft you can explore.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To start your World of Warcraft adventure, you’ll need a few things. Firstly, you’ll need a computer meets the game’s system requirements. Secondly, you’ll need an active internet connection. Thirdly, you need a World of Warcraft subscription. This is a monthly fee that grants you access to the game servers.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Don’t rush: Take your time to learn the game mechanics and its vast lore.
2. Try out different classes: Each class offers different gameplay. Explore to find which one suits you best.
3. Interact with other players: You’ll learn a lot and have a better experience.
4. Do the quests: They’re an excellent way to gain experience points and to understand the game world.
5. Research: There are numerous guides and online communities dedicated to helping beginners.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are several online resources that can be of great help to beginners. Fansites like Wowhead and WoW Insider offer guides, news, and tips. Blizzard’s official forum, WoW subreddit, and Discord servers are great social communities to seek help and meet other players.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. MOB: This refers to a hostile NPC (Non-player character) that players fight against.
2. XP: Short for experience points, these are needed to level up your character.
3. Quests: Tasks given to you by NPCs.
4. Dungeon: A challenging area designed for a group of players to tackle together.
5. Raid: A larger and more difficult version of a dungeon, requiring more players.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you have a basic understanding of what World of Warcraft truly is, the next step is to start playing! Download the game, create a character, and start exploring the world. Remember, WoW is designed to be a long-term, immersive experience – so take your time and savour the journey. Because in World of Warcraft, the journey really is the destination!
