World of Warcraft

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MMORPG set in Azeroth with races, classes, raids and PvP.

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

World of Warcraft

Also Known As

WoW, World of Warcraft Classic

Format

Game/MMORPG

Release Year

2004

Current Status

Active

Country of Origin

United States

Creator

Blizzard Entertainment

Original Work

Warcraft RTS

Genre

MMORPG, fantasy, Blizzard, online, multiplayer, RPG, Warcraft, Azeroth

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape World of Warcraft.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

MMORPG set in Azeroth with races, classes, raids and PvP.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

Azeroth is a vast, magical world of diverse landscapes—from the sun-drenched savannas of the Barrens to the frozen peaks of Northrend. Its history is etched in the ruins of ancient empires and the flourishing capitals of Stormwind and Orgrimmar, constantly reshaping under the influence of magic and war.

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

At its core, World of Warcraft explores the duality of heroism and corruption, the necessity of unity in the face of annihilation, and the price of power. It questions the nature of destiny and free will, as mortal champions stand against the inevitable end of all things.

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing World of Warcraft's global influence.

Creation Background

Built on Warcraft RTS lore

Cultural Impact

Defined MMORPG genre

Legacy

Long-lasting communities

Major Milestones

2004 launch,2007 TBC,2008 WotLK

Revenue

Subscription revenue in billions

Awards

Game of the Year 2004

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from World of Warcraft.

Jaina Proudmoore

One of the most powerful sorceresses in Azeroth, Jaina has evolved from a diplomat seeking peace to a battle-hardened leader.View Profile

Thrall

The shaman who united the orc clans and founded the modern Horde.View Profile

Arthas Menethil

The fallen Prince of Lordaeron who took up the cursed runeblade Frostmourne.View Profile

Sylvanas Windrunner

Former Ranger-General of Silvermoon turned undead leader of the Forsaken.View Profile

Illidan Stormrage

A night elf demon hunter who embraced fel energy to save his people, only to be imprisoned and exiled.View Profile

Anduin Wrynn

The young and idealistic King of the Alliance.View Profile

Explore all World of Warcraft characters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main conflict in World of Warcraft?▼

The central conflict is the faction war between the Alliance (humans, dwarves, night elves, etc.) and the Horde (orcs, trolls, tauren, etc.), though they often unite to face greater threats like the Burning Legion or the Old Gods.

Who are the Titans?▼

The Titans are colossal, god-like beings who travel the cosmos shaping worlds and bringing order. They ordered Azeroth and imprisoned the chaotic Old Gods deep beneath its surface.

What is the Burning Legion?▼

The Burning Legion is a vast army of demons led by the fallen titan Sargeras. Their goal is to destroy all order in the universe, and they have invaded Azeroth multiple times.

Who is the Lich King?▼

The Lich King was the master of the Scourge, a vast undead army. Originally the orc shaman Ner'zhul, his spirit later merged with Prince Arthas Menethil, becoming one of Azeroth's most terrifying villains until his defeat.

What are the Old Gods?▼

The Old Gods are eldritch horrors sent by the Void Lords to corrupt titan-souls. They ruled Azeroth in the Black Empire before being imprisoned by the Titans, but they continue to whisper madness to mortals.

Can I play World of Warcraft solo?▼

Yes, while it is an MMORPG designed for social play, much of the questing, story content, and exploration can be completed solo. However, end-game content like raids and high-level dungeons usually requires a group.

What is the difference between Retail and Classic WoW?▼

Retail WoW is the modern, current version of the game with all expansions and quality-of-life updates. Classic WoW recreates the game as it existed in its earlier iterations (Vanilla, TBC, etc.), offering a more nostalgic and challenging experience.

How many races and classes are there?▼

There are over 20 playable races divided between the Alliance and Horde, and 13 distinct classes (such as Warrior, Mage, Druid, and Demon Hunter), each with unique abilities and playstyles.

What is a Raid?▼

A Raid is a high-level dungeon instance designed for large groups of 10 to 30 players. They feature the game's toughest bosses, most complex mechanics, and best loot.

Is the lore of the RTS games important to WoW?▼

Yes, the strategy games (Warcraft I, II, and III) established the foundation of the lore, introducing key characters like Thrall, Jaina, and Arthas, and setting the stage for the political landscape of World of Warcraft.