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Changes: World of Warcraft: Cataclysm

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{{Patchbox
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[[File:Cataclysmlogo.png|center]]
  
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| Patchname = Cataclysm Systems
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:''"Cataclysm" redirects here. For the in-universe event that is the subject of the expansion, see [[Shattering|The Shattering]]. For the in-game launch event leading up to the expansion, see [[Elemental Unrest]]. For the warlock talent, see [[Cataclysm (warlock talent)]].''
  
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| Image = [[Image:Cataclysm systems patch.jpg|256px]]
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{{Infobox game
  
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| Caption = [[The Maelstrom]]
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| name = World of Warcraft: Cataclysm
  
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| Release = 2010-10-12
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| image = CataclysmOfficialCover.png
  
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| Version = 13164
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| caption = The official game packaging.
  
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| toc =
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| developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]]
  
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| Highlights =
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| publisher = Blizzard Entertainment
  
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*New streaming launcher
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| date = 7 December 2010<ref name="dec7BLIZZ">{{ref web|url=http://eu.blizzard.com/en-gb/company/press/pressreleases.html?101004|title=WORLD OF WARCRAFT®: CATACLYSM™ IN STORES STARTING DECEMBER 7|date=2010-10-04|accessdate=2010-10-04|publisher=Blizzard Entertainment}}</ref>
  
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*UI and class mechanics revamp
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| platforms = Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X
  
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| genre = MMORPG
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| api = 1
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| Prev = 3.3.5a
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| Current = 4.0.1
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| Next = 4.0.1a
 
}}
  
}}
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{{tocright}}
  
   
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==Stat Changes==
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'''''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm''''' (colloquially known as '''''Cata''''' or '''''clysm'''''), is the upcoming third [[expansion]] for ''[[World of Warcraft]]''. Set primarily in a dramatically reforged [[Kalimdor]] and [[Eastern Kingdoms]] on the world of [[Azeroth]], the expansion set follows the return of the evil Dragon Aspect [[Deathwing]] the Destroyer—formerly known as the ancient guardian Neltharion the Earth Warder—who causes a new Sundering as he makes his cataclysmic re-entrance into the world from [[Deepholm]], the elemental plane of earth.
 
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===Stat Changes===
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* [[Stamina]] &mdash; Due to the assigning of Strength, Agility, and Intellect, non-plate wearers have more Stamina than before. Health pools are now much closer between plate-wearers and other classes.
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* [[Spirit]] &mdash; This stat should only be found on healing gear. Non-healing casters have other systems in place to regenerate mana.
  +
* [[Intellect]] &mdash; Intellect now grants Spell Power and increases your Critical Strike chance with spells.
  +
* [[Haste]] &mdash; Haste should now be more attractive for melee classes by allowing them to recover resources such as rage, energy, and runes more quickly. Our intention is for Haste to let you "do stuff" more often.
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* [[Parry]] &mdash; Parry provides the same avoidance as Dodge, and you'll receive a percentage of your strength as Parry Rating.
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* [[Mastery]] &mdash; This is a new stat that will allow players to become better at whatever makes their chosen talent tree cool or unique. It's directly tied to talents, so what you gain from improving this stat is entirely dependent upon your class and the talent specialization you choose. We’ll talk more about specific Mastery benefits in the future.
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* [[Armor]] &mdash; The amount of bonus Armor received per stat point on items has been drastically reduced, and Armor is no longer given by Agility. In addition, Armor now better mitigates differences among Armor types so that protection from mail, leather, and cloth is much closer to that of plate.
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* [[Resilience]] &mdash; This now only affects damage done by players and their pets. It will not impact crit chance, crit damage, mana drains, or other such effects.
   
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===Removed From Items===
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''Cataclysm'' will return players to the two continents of Azeroth for most of their campaigning, after years away in [[Outland]] and [[Northrend]], opening new zones such as [[Mount Hyjal]], the sunken world of [[Vashj'ir]], [[Deepholm]], [[Uldum]] and the [[Twilight Highlands]]. It will include two new playable races: the [[Worgen (playable)|worgen]] from the legendary kingdom of [[Gilneas]] for the [[Alliance]], and the [[Goblin (playable)|goblins]] of the [[Bilgewater Cartel]] from the isle of [[Kezan]] for the [[Horde]]. [[Flying mount]]s will finally be usable in [[Kalimdor]] and [[Eastern Kingdoms]], while the new secondary profession [[Archaeology]] will be introduced. [[Reforging]] will make its debut in game, while player classes will be fully updated, including new race-class combinations.
  
  +
* [[Attack Power]] &mdash; This stat is rarely present on items, although it is derived from other stats. Strength and Agility, which are present on items, grant the appropriate amount of Attack Power (generally 2 Attack Power per point of Strength or Agility) depending upon which stat a particular class favors.
  +
* [[Block Rating]] &mdash; Block has been redesigned to scale better. Blocked attacks will simply hit for 30% less damage. Block Rating is no longer given out directly as a stat. Instead, Mastery for Protection paladins and Protection warriors increases the chance to block.
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* [[Spell Power]] &mdash; Spell Power is no longer present on most items. Instead, as mentioned above, Intellect now grants Spell Power. One exception is that caster weapons still have Spell Power. This allows us to make weapons proportionately more powerful for casters in the same way they are for melee classes.
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* [[Armor Penetration]] &mdash; This stat is no longer present on items. Armor Penetration still exists in talents and abilities.
  +
* Shield [[Block Value]] &mdash; There are some effects that increase the Block value by a percentage, but this does not exist as a stat.
   
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===Removed From the Game===
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''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' was officially announced on August 21, 2009 at [[BlizzCon 2009]]. The "friends & family" phase of the ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' alpha began on May 3, 2010<ref>{{ref web|url=http://blue.mmo-champion.com/t/24690639017/cataclysm-alpha-has-begun/|accessdate=2010-07-01|publisher=MMO-Champion|title=Cataclysm Alpha has begun!}}</ref>, while closed beta began June 30, 2010.<ref>{{ref web|url=http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?100630|accessdate=2010-06-30|publisher=Activision Blizzard|title=Blizzard Entertainment Begins Closed Beta Test for World of Warcraft®: Cataclysm™}}</ref> . Collectors' Edition content and pricing was announced on August 17, 2010<ref>{{ref web|url=http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?100817|title=WORLD OF WARCRAFT®: CATACLYSM™ COLLECTOR'S EDITION ANNOUNCED|accessdate=2010-08-19}}</ref>. On October 4, 2010, Blizzard Entertainment officially announced the release date for the expansion: December 7, 2010, including for the first time a digital download edition at release.<ref name="dec7BLIZZ"/>
  
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* [[MP5]] &mdash; This stat no longer exists in the game. Holy paladins and Restoration shaman have been redesigned to benefit from Spirit.
  +
* [[Defense]] &mdash; Defense is now removed from the game. Tanking classes will become uncrittable versus creatures by shifting into Defensive Stance, Blood Presence, or Bear Form, or by using Righteous Fury.
  +
* [[Rank|Spell Ranks]] &mdash; Spell ranks now cease to exist. All spells have one rank and will scale appropriately by caster level. The levels at which you can learn certain spells have been changed in order to fill in some of the gaps, and there are many new spells to learn along the way as well.
  +
* [[Weapon Skill]] &mdash; This stat will be removed from the game completely. Classes will start with all the weapon skills they need to know and will not need to improve them.
   
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===What Else You Should Know===
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Before Cataclysm was announced as the official title of the expansion, it was known internally as '''''World of Warcraft: Worldbreaker'''''.
  
  +
* [[Combat ratings]] &mdash; Ratings are much harder to "cap out" at maximum gear levels. Ratings are steeper in Cataclysm, and creatures in later tiers of content will be harder to hit or crit, similar to how level-83 mobs are harder to hit or crit than level-80 mobs.
  +
* [[Reforging]] &mdash; This new itemization customization feature allows you to partially change the stats on an item. You can reduce the value of an existing stat on an item, and add an equivalent amount of another stat that was not already present on the item. This makes it far easier to reach important thresholds like the Hit Rating and Expertise Rating caps.<ref>http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=27187850231&sid=1</ref>
   
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== Player Versus Player ==
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==Introduction==
  
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* [[Battleground]]s will no longer close when both sides are below the minimum player requirement.
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From the official site:
  
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* There is a soft cap of 4000 honor points. Once over the cap you will not earn any more honor, nor be able to refund items to the quartermasters until you are under the cap.
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* Players level-capped due to not having the next expansion are now placed in the same battleground brackets as those who have experience turned off.
   
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== Achievements ==
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:'''''An ancient evil lies dormant within [[Deepholm]], the domain of earth in the [[Elemental Plane]].'''''
  
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* New Feat of Strength added: {{achievement|Friends In Even Higher Places}}.
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* {{Achievement|Master of Arms}} and {{Achievement|Did Somebody Order a Knuckle Sandwich?}} converted to Feat of Strength.
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* In Dungeons & Raids section of achievements all Lich King Heroics have been put to Lich King Dungeon tab.
   
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== Talents ==
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:''Hidden away in a secluded sanctuary, the corrupted [[Dragon Aspects|Dragon Aspect]] [[Deathwing]] has waited, recovering from the wounds of his [[Deathwing#Day of the Dragon|last battle]] against [[Azeroth (world)|Azeroth]] and biding his time until he can reforge the world in molten fire.''
  
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* A total of 36 points at level 80 (down from 71).
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* Each tree only requires 31 points to reach the last tier (down from 41).
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* You must now select only one tree. Once you do, you are given a primary ability for that spec, and two or three attributes specific for that spec. At level 80, you are given a [[Mastery]] trait also specific for the spec you chose, learned at your trainer.
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* You cannot put points into any other tree until you have put 31 into your first tree.
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==Experience==
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The maximum experience needed to level from 1-40 has been reduced by a significant amount.
   
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== Classes ==
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:''Soon, Deathwing the Destroyer will return to Azeroth, and his eruption from Deepholm will sunder the world, leaving a festering wound across the continents. As the [[Horde]] and [[Alliance]] race to the epicenter of the cataclysm, the kingdoms of Azeroth will witness seismic shifts in power, the kindling of a war of the elements, and the emergence of unlikely heroes who will rise up to protect their scarred and broken world from utter devastation.''
  
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{{main|Patch 4.0.1 (class changes)}}
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* The price of dual specialization is reduced from 1000 gold to 100 gold.
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* [[Health regeneration]] uses a new formula. Outside of combat, all classes seem to regenerate 0.75% of their maximum health per second before the effects of abilities.
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* [[Mana regeneration]] uses a new formula.
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* Class [[buffs]] can no longer be applied to player-controlled [[pets]].
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* Class buffs and their raid-wide counterparts have been consolidated into a single spell. When the target of the buff is within your party or raid (including yourself), the buff applies to the entire raid. Reagents are no longer required for these abilities.
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* Dispell abilities will no longer be prevented from casting when the target does not have a valid debuff to dispell. It will consume the mana cost of the ability and global cooldown despite doing nothing.
   
  +
==Mounts==
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==Major expansion changes and updates==
  
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* All mounts now scale with riding skill - level 20 60% mounts will now move at 100% speed with epic riding.
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*Player level cap increased to 85.
  
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* The [[X-53 Touring Rocket]] can now also be used as a ground mount.
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*Six new high-level zones: [[Mount Hyjal]] and [[Uldum]] in [[Kalimdor]]; [[Vashj'ir]] and the [[Twilight Highlands]] in the [[Eastern Kingdoms]]; [[Deepholm]] in the elemental plane of earth; and the PvP zone and daily quest hub [[Tol Barad]]. Vashj'ir is treated as a sub-continent comprised of three smaller zones.
  
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* Players can now instantly transition in Dalaran with mounts that have both a ground and flying speed without remounting.
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*Two new player races, the [[worgen (playable)|worgen]] of [[Gilneas (faction)|Gilneas]] for the Alliance and the [[goblin (playable)|goblins]] of the [[Bilgewater Cartel]] for the Horde. New leveling zones added for these two races include [[Gilneas]], the Isle of [[Kezan]], and the [[Lost Isles]].
  
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* If a player upgrades the riding skill while riding a mount that can scale to the new skill, it is applied instantly. For example, learning Expert Riding in Outland while riding a [[Celestial Steed]] immediately enables flying without remounting.
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*A dramatic alteration of Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms due to the Cataclysm, resulting in massive environmental changes, as well as questing and progression changes, for nearly every zone, resulting in new leveling experiences. This includes new starter areas for the [[gnome (playable)|gnomes]] and [[Troll (playable)|Darkspear trolls]], and faction changes for some zones, such as [[Hillsbrad Foothills]].
  
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* Players will no longer get a letter in the mail from their riding trainer upon reaching the appropriate level to learn the next riding skill. The riding skill now displays in the "General" tab in the spell book and players are alerted to train riding just like other new abilities.
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*Along with the environmental redesign comes the ability for players to use flying mounts on both classic continents. ''[[World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade|Burning Crusade]]'' content in Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms, such as [[Azuremyst Isle]] and [[Eversong Woods]], remain on a seperate map server and do not allow the use of flying mounts.
  
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*Seven new high-level dungeons and three new raid instances, all available in regular and heroic modes (with raids in both 10- and 25-player varieties), as well as two heroic revamps of classic dungeons ([[Deadmines]] and [[Shadowfang Keep]]). This will also include Blizzard's new Flexible Raid Lock system, a change to raid functionality which includes the ability to move between 10- and 25-player raid groups, combine or split groups, and vary regular & heroic attempts.
  
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*New PvP opportunities including the [[Tol Barad]] zone and a PvP-instanced dungeon, [[Baradin Hold]], as well as two new battlegrounds [[Battle for Gilneas]] and [[Twin Peaks]].
  
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*Class redesign (coming immediately prior to expansion launch in [[Patch 4.0.1]] but optimized for the expansion) including new talents and spells, simplification of talent trees, and reorganization of class buffs.
  
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*Revamp of character and gear stats, including elimination of some stats and major changes to base stat operability (such as intellect creating spell power, strength and agility affecting attack power, etc.) This includes the addition of [[Reforging]] to the game, giving players the ability to add certain stats on gear in return for removal of others.
  
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*New race/class combinations (see the [[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm#Race_and_class_changes|chart]] below) which will be available to all players in [[Patch 4.0.3]].<ref name="ClassRace403">{{ref web|url=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=27026397444&sid=1&pageNo=2#33|title= Re: Does 4.0.1 include new race/class combos|author=Zarhym|date=10/04/2010 04:20:59 PM PDT}}</ref>.
  
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*New [[Archaeology]] profession.
  
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*Level cap raised on all main and secondary professions to 525, with many new items, patterns and rewards.
  
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*A new [[Guild advancement]] system, which includes guild leveling, achievements and rewards.
  
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*Consolidation of previous expansion set currency systems; rewards will include two PvE currencies, [[Justice Point|Justice]] and [[Valor Point|Valor points]], as well as two PvP currencies, [[Honor Point|Honor]] and [[Conquest Point|Conquest points]].
  
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*New technology enhancements including support for DirectX 11 features and hardware cursor in OpenGL mode, additional video options and a new water rendering engine.<ref>{{ref web|url=http://www.mmo-champion.com/index.php?topic=97548.0|title=Class Discussions Panel|accessdate=2010-02-11|date=2009-08-22|author=Bouboille|publisher=MMO-Champion}}</ref><ref>{{ref web|url=http://www.mmo-champion.com/news-2/blizzcon-day-2-game-systems-panel/|title=Blizzcon Day 2 - Game Systems Panel|accessdate=2010-02-11|date=2009-08-22|author=Bouboille|publisher=MMO-Champion}}</ref><ref>{{ref web|url=http://www.mmo-champion.com/news-2/blizzcon-day-2-open-qa-panel/|title=Blizzcon Day 2 - Open Q&A Panel|accessdate=2010-02-11|date=2009-08-22|author=Bouboille|publisher=MMO-Champion}}</ref>
  
   
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==New zones==
  
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Unlike in the previous two expansions, ''The Burning Crusade'' and ''Wrath of the Lich King'', there is no new continent/world for additional content; instead, ''Cataclysm'' returns players primarily to Azeroth itself, with six new high-level (80-85) zones. Each of the five leveling zones features its own unique breadcrumb (introductory) quest and cutscene; afterwards, each is accessible quickly through portals in Stormwind City and Orgrimmar. Tol Barad is also available at level 85 via these portals.
  
   
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==Dungeons==
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====New level 80-85 zones====
  
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* Though not displayed in the Dungeon Finder Interface Screen, completing a Random Lich King Heroic Dungeon using the Dungeon Finder will award 23 [[Justice Point|Justice Points]], in addition to the 16 [[Justice Point|Justice Points]] earned for each boss killed.
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*{{Neutral}} '''[[Mount Hyjal]]''': Level 80-82 zone in northern [[Kalimdor]]. Originally planned for the first release of the game, then later utilized as a [[Caverns of Time]] raid instance, Mount Hyjal focuses on the druids' defense of the world tree from the [[Twilight's Hammer]] and {{NPC||Ragnaros}}'s forces.
  
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* Completing a weekly raid quest will be rewarded with 137 Justice Points.
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*{{Neutral}} '''[[Vashj'ir]]''': Level 80-82 underwater zone off the western coast of the [[Eastern Kingdoms]]. This zone is further split into three major subzones: the [[Kelp'thar Forest]], the [[Shimmering Expanse]], and the [[Abyssal Depths]]. Shipwrecked by tendrils of an [[Old God]], adventurers must fight for survival against the [[naga]] forces out to enslave {{NPC||Neptulon}}.
  
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* After a hotfix, The [[Essence-Infused Moonstone]] is no longer needed to summon [[Anzu]]; he will now always be present in Heroic [[Sethekk Halls]].
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*{{Neutral}} '''[[Deepholm]]''': Level 82-83 zone within the elemental plane of earth. Access to Deepholm has been opened by Deathwing's return to the world through the [[Maelstrom]]. The [[Earthen Ring]] scramble to recover the [[World Pillar]] fragments stolen by the [[Twilight's Hammer]], initially opposed but later assisted by {{NPC||Therazane}}'s forces.
  
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*{{Neutral}} '''[[Uldum]]''': Level 83-84 zone in southern Kalimdor. A Titan refuge hidden by ancient technology for millenia, this vast desert, filled with archaeological treasures, is now fought over by the invading elemental forces of {{NPC||Al'Akir}} and Uldum's native residents, the [[Ramkahen]].
  
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*{{Neutral}} The '''[[Twilight Highlands]]''': Level 84-85 zone in [[Khaz Modan]] of the Eastern Kingdoms, disputed by Alliance and Horde settlers (the [[Wildhammer clan]] and [[Dragonmaw clan]], respectively) and disrupted by Twilight's Hammer operatives.
  
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*{{Neutral}} '''[[Tol Barad]]''': Level 85 end-game zone off the coast of [[Lordaeron]] in the Eastern Kingdoms. It separated into two subzones: an [[Outdoor PvP]] zone in the style of [[Wintergrasp]], and the '''Tol Barad Peninsula''', a daily quest hub akin to the [[Isle of Quel'Danas]]. The two zones are instanced, and thus accessed via portals or the battleground queuing system and not via the open world.
  
   
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==Professions==
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Also included as a new zone, albeit unpopulated, is {{Neutral}} '''[[Ahn'Qiraj: The Fallen Kingdom]]''', the site of the above-ground level 60 raid dungeons [[Temple of Ahn'Qiraj]] and [[Ruins of Ahn'Qiraj]]. There has been no word as yet if this will continue questlines from Silithus, or simply marks flyover territory for flying mounts venturing into the area. In addition, the '''[[Maelstrom]]''' appears as a region on player maps; Deepholm, Kezan and the Lost Isles appear as individual zones on the Maelstrom region map.
  
  +
* [[Herbalism]] and [[Mining]] give [[XP]]. The higher level the char is, the lower the received XP will be. This uses rest XP so you will get double XP while you have sufficient rest stored up.
  +
* Tiffany Cartier no longer exchanges Titanium Powder for Dalaran Jewelcrafter's Tokens; you now turn them in at Timothy Jones via a repeatable quest.
  +
* Master [[Riding]] is available from Northrend [[Riding trainers]] at a cost of {{cost|5000}}, allowing all flying mounts to scale to 310% speed. Characters that already had a 310% speed flying mount pre-4.0.1 are given this skill automatically and free of charge. ''Note that reputation discounts apply to the trainers in the Northrend starting areas!''
  +
** The exception is the the {{loot|epic|Reins of the Violet Proto-Drake}} from the [[meta-achievement|meta]] [[World Events achievements|world events achievement]] {{achievement|What A Long, Strange Trip It's Been}}. While still technically a 280% mount due to Patch 4.0.1, this mount will award 310% speed to characters who do not have it for free, due to a hotfix.
  +
** The speed of nearly all mounts scales with riding skill. Exceptions include the [[Sea Turtle (mount)|Sea Turtle]] mount.
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* [[Cold Weather Flying]] is now available to all characters at level 68 for {{cost|500}}.
  +
* Engineers can no longer build ammo (it is no longer used for ranged weapons).
  +
* [[Flexweave Underlay]], [[Springy Arachnoweave]], and [[Nitro Boosts]] no longer increase spell power, agility, and crit rating respectively, but can now be used alongside other enchants.
  +
* [[Leatherworking]] Specializations have been removed
  +
* [[Tailoring]] Specializations have been removed; specialty cloth is now always made in single units.
  +
* There is now just one kind and tier of [[Vellum]]. Old Weapon and Armor Vellums are converted to a [[Ruined Vellum]], which can be used to create the new all-purpose [[Enchanting Vellum]].
  +
* [[Alchemy]] [[Transmute]] cooldowns have been redesigned. Completing the transmute will now cause a cooldown that is fixed to reset at 00:00 server time, limiting you to one cooldown per day.
  +
* Many profession trainers in capitals now train professions up to Grand Master. Accounts without expansions will still be unable to access the professions associated with those expansions.
  +
* [[Enchant Shield - Lesser Block]] now grants 10 parry rating rather than 10 block rating due to the removal of block as a stat.
  +
* [[Enchant Bracer - Minor Deflection]], [[Enchant Bracer - Lesser Deflection]], [[Enchant Bracer - Deflection]], and [[Enchant Bracer - Major Defense]] now grant [[dodge rating]] equal to the [[defense rating]] they previously gave due to the removal of defense as a stat (2, 3, 5, and 12 respectively).
  +
* [[Archaeology]] has been added to the UI, however there are no Archaeology trainers to teach it.
   
  +
==Items==
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====New starting zones====
  
  +
* Some former Guardian Elixirs are now Battle Elixirs.
−
*{{Alliance}} '''[[Gilneas]]''': Level 1-12 starting zone for the [[worgen]]. Players start in the [[Gilneas City]] subzone (1-5), eventually making their way to the larger zone (5-12) to complete the leveling process; they are then redirected to [[Darkshore]] to continue. Unlike the Horde counterpart starter zones, Gilneas is available (in the form of the "[[Ruins of Gilneas]]") as a general, albeit unpopulated, world zone used only for a couple of phased Undead quests from [[Silverpine Forest]].
  
  +
* The effect of most scrolls are now considered Battle Elixirs, and will overwrite existing Battle Elixirs. The effect of scrolls of stamina and protection are considered Guardian Elixirs.
−
*{{Horde}} The Isle of '''[[Kezan]]''': Level 1-5 starting zone for the Bilgewater Cartel [[goblins]], a seedy, freewheeling port town in the shadow of [[Mount Kajaro]]. Kezan is available to Goblins from the start; players are unable to return as the isle is instanced.
  
  +
* Most books that formerly taught class spells are now poor-quality items with no function. Exceptions include {{item|Tome of Dalaran Brilliance}} and {{item|Tome of Polymorph: Black Cat}}.
−
*{{Horde}} The '''[[Lost Isles]]''': Level 5-12 zone for the goblins, a lush tropical island enclave off the eastern coast of Kalimdor. The goblin storyline continues here directly from completing the Kezan starter area, and progresses to [[Azshara]]. Like Kezan, the Lost Isles are instanced and players will be unable to return following their departure.
  
  +
* {{loot|heirloom|Tome of Cold Weather Flight}} has been removed.
  +
* Some glyph items have been replaced with {{item|Charred Glyph}}s, non-functional, poor-quality items.
  +
* Some glyphs have been replaced or renamed.
  +
* All old [[Ammo]] is now poor quality and is useless. It can still be vendored.
  +
* [[Quiver|Quivers]], [[Ammo Pouch|Ammo Pouches]] have been converted into regular bags. Most of them have fewer slots than they originally did. The bags can no longer be purchases from vendors or found as drops, but crafted quivers and ammo pouches can still be made as regular bags.
  +
* [[Soul Bag|Soul Bags]] have been converted into regular bags. Most of them have fewer slots than they originally did.
  +
* Numerous item stat changes:
  +
** [[Armor Penetration Rating]], [[Block Rating]] and [[Defense Rating]] have been replaced with other stats.
  +
** [[MP5]] has been replaced with [[spirit]].
  +
** [[Spell power]] on most non-weapon equipment has been replaced with [[intellect]].
  +
* Wrathful Gladiator gear, with the exception of shoulders and T2 weapons and the tabard, can be purchased for honour, with no Battleground or Arena rating required (although the tooltip says that it is requires)
  +
* [[Pristine Black Diamond]] now has a sell price of 50s
  +
* [[Drums of the Wild]] have changed from a [[Gift of the Wild]] buff to a health and mana regeneration buff.
  +
* {{Loot|uncommon|Cache of the Ley-Guardian}} now contains 32 Justice Points instead of 2 Emblems of Triumph.
  +
* [[Relic]]s now have stats rather than modifying certain class abilities.
  +
* Some relics now have sockets. (This includes old-world relics that predated the [[Jewelcrafting]] profession.)
  +
* Several changes were made to gems, mainly hit rating, intellect, and dodge rating moved to blue, red, and yellow (previously yellow, yellow, and red) respectively.
  +
* The gold cap has been increased to 1,000,000 gold.
  +
* The original {{loot|epic|Elementium Ingot|Elementium Ore}} has been renamed to {{loot|epic|Elementium Ingot}}, to make way for the new ore that will be added in 4.0.3.
  +
* The original {{loot|legendary|Enchanted Elementium Bar|Elementium Bar}} has been renamed to {{loot|legendary|Enchanted Elementium Bar|Hardened Elementium Bar}}, to make way for the new bar that will be added in 4.0.3.
  +
* {{loot|rare|MOLL-E}} now binds when used.
   
  +
==Quests==
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==Dungeons and raids==
  
  +
* The [[Horde]] and [[Alliance]] versions of the pre-''Cataclysm'' event quest chain was added. Though initially disabled, it was made available November 1, 2010, starting with [[Earthen Ring]] emissaries in faction capitals.
−
[[File:WorldMap-World-cata.jpg|thumb|Map of the reshaped Azeroth.]]
  
  +
* If you must kill a mob or talk to an NPC, the name of the mob will be visible over their head regardless of user settings. User setting will return once quest is completed.
−
[[File:Cataclysmzonelocations.jpg|thumb|Map of the new zones in Cataclysm. Not to scale.]]
  
  +
* {{Questlong|Neutral|70|Spirits of Auchindoun}} no longer grants any bonus honor.
−
[[File:DungeonListCata.jpg|thumb|Original instance announcement for ''Cataclysm'' at Blizzcon 2009.]]
  
  +
* The {{Questlong|Neutral|70|Morthis Whisperwing}} quest chain for druid [[Swift Flight Form]] completely removed.
−
Blizzard developers announced at BlizzCon 2009 that they intended for ''Cataclysm'' to ship with the most end-game content yet seen in an expansion. While there are technically fewer dungeons and raid instances than in the previous two expansions, it is expected that each will be sufficiently challenging.
  
  +
* {{Questlong|Horde|10|Cleanup on Isle E.}} has replaced {{questlong|Horde|10|Zalazane}}.
  +
* Some quests previously offered by [[Thrall]] are now offered by Garrosh Hellscream.
  +
* {{Questlong|Horde|60|The Brokering of Peace (Horde)|The Brokering of Peace}} is now tuned in to Shok Narnes rather than Thrall.
  +
* {{Questlong|Horde|62|Messenger to Thrall}} and {{Questlong|Horde|63|Envoy to the Mag'har}} have been removed.
  +
* Several quests in Nagrand have been reduced in order to complete, such as the Beast killing quests; and of course the poop quest too.
  +
* Quests directing newly-leveled characters to their riding trainer have been removed.
  +
* {{Questlong|Alliance|60|Arrows Are For Sissies}} and {{Questlong|Horde|60|A Fair Trade}} have been removed.
   
−
=== New Dungeons===
 +
==Reputation==
  +
* [[Gnomeregan (faction)|Gnomeregan]] faction has been renamed to [[Gnomeregan (faction)|Gnomeregan]].
−
There are currently seven new dungeons expected to be included at ''Cataclysm'' release, with both regular difficulty versions (levels noted below) and heroic difficulty content to be encountered at level 85:
  
  +
* The most current factions are now listed at the top of the Reputation window. For example, a level 80 character in Northrend will have WotLK rep first, then BC, then Classic factions.
   
  +
==User interface==
−
*'''[[Blackrock Caverns]]''', level 80-81, located inside [[Blackrock Mountain]] near the entrance to Blackrock Spire, with agents of the [[Twilight's Hammer]]
  
  +
* The World Map button has moved to the upper-right corner of the minimap rather than around the edge of it.
−
*'''The [[Throne of the Tides]]''', level 80-81, {{co|71|29|Abyssal Depths}} in the Abyssal Depths of [[Vashj'ir]], located deep within the Abyssal Maw
  
  +
* The Social button has been moved to the upper-left of the chat window.
−
*'''The [[Vortex Pinnacle]]''', level 82-84, {{co|77|84|Uldum}} in the [[Skywall]] above the southern sea of Uldum, set on platforms in the sky
  
  +
* On the Character Select Screen, characters now perform an attack animation appropriate to their class (spell casting or melee) every 30 seconds.
−
*'''The [[Stonecore]]''', level 82-84, {{co|47|52|Deepholm}} in [[Deepholm]] above the Throne of Earth
  
  +
* Character stats are on a separate display that must be revealed on the right of the character screen.
−
*'''The [[Lost City of the Tol'vir]]''', level 85, {{co|61|64|Uldum}} in the center of [[Uldum]], an outdoor dungeon
  
  +
* Buttons for popup windows (talents, PvP, dungeon finder, etc.) now display the level at which they become available.
−
*'''The [[Halls of Origination]]''', level 85, {{co|72|52|Uldum}} in the large eastern temple in [[Uldum]], a new Titan-themed dungeon with [[Brann Bronzebeard]]
  
  +
* The graphics settings window has been revamped.
−
*'''[[Grim Batol (instance)|Grim Batol]]''', level 85, {{co|19|54|Twilight Highlands}} on the hill overlooking the [[Wetlands]] in [[Twilight Highlands]], an old Dwarven city utilized by Deathwing
  
  +
* Zone names displayed when moving between zones are now closer to the top of the screen.
−
*'''[[Abyssal Maw (instance)|Abyssal Maw]]''', level 85?, in the Abyssal Depths of Vashj'ir, expected to be added in Patch 4.1.
  
  +
* On the border of the [[Minimap]] a yellow arrow points to the closest quest area. In the Objectives frame the number of that quest has a yellow (instead brown) background.
  +
* While dead a red arrow points in the direction of your corpse on the border of the [[Minimap]].
  +
* While dead there is a return to Graveyard button at the top of user screen.
  +
* If [[quest item]]s can be looted, they will be displayed with a yellow border in the [[Loot#Looting_while_solo|loot window]].<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3K9kFgI4FqY&feature=player_embedded</ref>
  +
* You can now activate multiple tracking abilities including NPC and profession tracking (Class Trainer, Find Treasure, Track Humanoids, Find Minerals, etc.) simultaneously. The minimap uses appropriate icons to distinguish generic tracking (Class Trainer, Auctioneer, Mailbox, etc.). Dots displayed for other forms of tracking tracking are unchanged.
  +
* Mounts and companion pets have been moved to the spellbook.
  +
* Tooltips of mobs and objects displays quest progression of partymembers when in a party and the quest has been shared.
  +
* The character screen now displays the character's talent specialization if one exists.
  +
* The background behind the character on the character screen is now greyed.
  +
* New Guild UI and cap of 1000 members have been implemented.
  +
* If you unsheathe your weapons while dancing, they no longer get re-sheathed.
  +
* If you have FPS enabled, it is now displayed on the world map (in a different position than on the main interface)
  +
* AddOns can no longer get access to Real Names as the UI merely provides a [[UI escape sequences|UI Escape Sequence]] which is rendered as the correct name when displayed.
  +
* The [[Kalu'ak]] boat crew now have their voices follow them around when they speak.
  +
* Gryphons (the Alliance flight path type) now have their voice remain stationary.
  +
* All guards and NPC participants at the Tourney now frequently beat their mounts resulting in much noise.
  +
* Consolidate Buffs is now the default setting and has been turned on for you in your preferences. You can turn it back off of course.
  +
* A throttle has been added to all public chat channels, limiting players to two messages every few seconds. Players will receive an error message instructing them to wait before <s>spamming</s> sending additional chat in that channel. Other forms of chat (such as Say, Party, Yell, and Guild) remain unchanged.
  +
* Links can now be used in all chat channels.
  +
* Updated generic portraits are used for Night Elf, Gnome, and Troll party/raid members who are out of visual range.
  +
* The new raid frame interface allows players to select their role within the raid (the leader/assistants can also set it for them). An option Interface allows players to be grouped together by roles.
  +
* The new raid frame interface allows colored markers to be placed on the ground.
  +
* When placing a [[raid target icon]] on a target, a line will now be displayed in raid chat indicating who placed which icon on what target.
  +
* The "report problem" button is gone from the Help Request window. In its place is an informational page on Account Security. You can no longer report issues to the Game Masters without speaking with one unless you are offline when your ticket reaches the top of the queue.
  +
* GM responses now appear in the corner of the screen (replacing your open GM ticket), rather than in your mailbox. Game Masters may choose to leave a written response even when you are still online rather than open a conversation.
  +
* New loading screen tips have been added.
  +
* Having Beginner Tooltips turned on now modifies the description of low level spells to help new players learn when to use them, but replaces the number data with a generalized description (high, low, etc).
  +
* New loading screen tips have been added.
  +
* Selection circles for flying units now appear at their flying height rather than on the ground below them (which would disappear above a certain distance).
  +
* Talents which grant spells have a yellow border in the Talent frame.
  +
* Instant Quest Text has been removed from the interface menu. It is now turned on permanently.
  +
* The flight path map window is now larger.
   
  +
==Game Engine==
−
In order to use the [[Dungeon Finder]] to queue for these seven new instances in either regular or Heroic mode, players must first physically travel to the [[Cataclysm instance locations|instance entrance]]. An eighth 5-player dungeon was originally planned in the Abyssal Maw for launch, an "outdoor" instance (as opposed to the "indoor" Throne of the Tides) but was postponed into the first major content patch.
  
  +
*PowerPC is no longer supported
  +
*It is now impossible for Windows 98 & Windows 2000 users to install World of Warcraft (unsupported since 3.0.2, however could still play on them)
  +
**It is officially "impossible" to install on Windows 2000, however there is a way to do it unofficially. (This has not been tested on Windows 98!) The game itself isn't incompatible with Windows 2000, just the Launcher requires a small piece of code that Windows 2000 lacks, so loading the game isn't a problem once you get past installation. http://www.techspot.com/vb/topic155005.html has walkthroughs on a few different ways to make it work with Windows 2000. The Wrapper DLL fix is the only one I have tested and succeeded in installing with.
  +
*The Launcher will now prevent you from accessing the login screen without an active Internet connection. It can still be accessed by bypassing the Launcher.
  +
*Cinematics are no longer included in the digital download. They can still be installed from the CDs/DVDs.
   
  +
==Graphics==
−
Two additional dungeons from classic ''World of Warcraft'', both low-level instances, have had level 85 heroic versions added with new content:
  
  +
*There is no way to disable Full Screen Glow via the Video Options menu. This is a permanent change. You can disable this feature using an in-game console command and restarting the game \console ffxGlow 0<ref>http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=27188059429&sid=1</ref>
   
  +
==World environment==
−
*'''The [[Deadmines]]''' in [[Westfall]]
  
  +
===General===
−
*'''[[Shadowfang Keep]]''' in [[Silverpine Forest]]
  
  +
* The [[Elemental Unrest]] world event is in the game files. The invasion did not start concurrent with the patch download, but was activated November 1st 2010.
  +
* Earthquakes have increased in frequency as well as intensity, sometimes causing dust to fall from buildings. Horde and Alliance leaders are meeting to discuss the matter.
   
−
====Classic Dungeons====
 +
===NPCs===
  +
* [[Magni Bronzebeard]] has new armor and weapons.
−
* All classic dungeons will be getting makeovers<ref>[http://wowvault.ign.com/fullstory.php?id=58799|Blizzcon 2010 Lore Panel Q&A, WoW Vault]</ref>, some will be ready for Cataclysm, others will come in later patches. These makeovers are to make them shorter, less confusing, and more fun.
  
  +
* [[Garrosh Hellscream]] has a new, unique model.
−
* Many dungeons will simply have areas cut and removed. Example: Sunken Temples entire lower floors will be removed.
  
  +
* [[Alliance Brigadier General]]s and [[Horde Warbringer]]s no longer give the quests {{Questlong|Alliance|70|Concerted Efforts}} and {{Questlong|Horde|70|For Great Honor}} respectively. They also no longer exchange marks of honor for honor points, although they will still purchase items as vendors.
−
* Many instances will be broken into 2 or 3 wings similar to how Scarlet Monastery is now.
  
  +
* [[Weapon Master|Weapon Masters]] no longer have gossip text. They cannot be interacted with except through combat. City Guards will no longer offer directions to Weapon Masters.
−
* All dungeons will have maps added to them.
  
−
* Uldaman will be cut into two instances.
  
−
* Maraudon will also be cut into two instances with some parts being removed as well.
  
−
* Wailing Caverns will have the entire 'maze' section on the east side removed.
  
−
* All dungeons will now have quest givers will all the quests at the start of the instance to lend themselves to [[Dungeon Finder]] players.
  
−
* Instances now have graveyards located much much closer to the instance entrance.
  
−
* All instances will be getting teleporters so you can get back to where you were more quickly after a wipe.
  
−
* BRD will have a teleporter system instead of being broken up into separate wings you will just be able to teleport to the section you want to go to.
  
−
* All dungeons will have a lot of the 'suck' trimmed out. Things like 20 second sleeps and 10 second disarms.
  
−
* There will be a better filtering system in place and some advancements in the way looting works for random groups. This is meant to help prevent ninja looting and greed before need situations.
  
   
−
====Classic Heroics====
 +
===Dun Morogh===
  +
* [[Operation: Gnomeregan]] has been removed. The outside of [[Gnomeregan]] is now being prepared for the gnomes' relocation.
−
* Classic Heroics will have their own different bosses, mobs and loot
  
−
* Classic Heroics will have their own quest chains and lore associated with them.
  
−
* The instances have been completely revamped with new flow and layout so it won't be like Naxx in WotLK as just an 'updated' copy of the old instance.
  
−
* Nearly all dungeons feature changes to some bosses and mobs to follow the WotLK progression and the new level band the dungeons can be found in.
  
−
* [[Stratholme]] has been split into two separate dungeons, '''Stratholme - Main Gate''' and '''Stratholme - Service Gate''', akin to the "wings" (living and dead) referred to in earlier iterations.<ref>{{ref web|title=Azeroth, Revisited: Stratholme in Cataclysm|url=http://www.wowhead.com/blog=166842|author=Fewyn|date=2010-09-08}}</ref>. Some bosses and mobs have changed to follow the WotLK progression.
  
   
−
===Raids===
 +
===Durotar===
  +
* [[Zalazane's Fall]] has been removed. [[Zalazane]] and his minions have been removed, and the [[Echo Isles]] are now being prepared for the trolls' relocation.
−
''Cataclysm'' will ship with three end-game raid dungeons and a PvP-unlocked raid dungeon (in the same style as the [[Vault of Archavon]]), each with both 10 and 25-man settings. Once the final boss of each has been defeated, players can set each boss to heroic mode (as in Icecrown Citadel).
  
   
  +
===Nagrand===
−
*'''[[Blackwing Descent]]''', {{co|25|23|Burning Steppes}} a raid inspired by [[Blackwing Lair]] featuring the return of {{NPC||Nefarian (Blackwing Descent tactics)||Nefarian}}, Deathwing's son and the end boss of the earlier raid, located in Blackrock Mountain, accessible only by flight via Nefarian's ledge high up on the mountain.
  
  +
* Elemental Unrest phase 3 (November 12, 2010): [[Thrall]], [[Aggra]] and Gavan Grayfeather have gathered at the [[Throne of the Elements]].
−
*'''[[Bastion of Twilight]]''', {{co|34|78|Twilight Highlands}} a raid instance in the [[Twilight Highlands]] atop the Twilight Citadel; players will fight {{NPC||Cho'gall (tactics)||Cho'gall}}, leader of the Twilight's Hammer, as well as {{NPC||Sintharia||Lady Sinestra}} (who appears in heroic mode only).
  
−
*'''[[Throne of the Four Winds]]''', {{co|38|81|Uldum}} a raid instance in the [[Skywall]], the portal of which appears above [[Uldum]]; it features {{NPC||Al'Akir (tactics)||Al'Akir}} the Wind God of the Elemental Plane of Air as final boss.
  
−
*'''[[Baradin Hold]]''', a raid dungeon on the islands of [[Tol Barad]] unlocked by winning the PvP battle, featuring a single boss (with additional bosses in future patches, like [[Vault of Archavon]]).
  
   
  +
===Orgrimmar===
−
====Changes to existing raids====
  
  +
* [[Vol'jin]], [[Garrosh Hellscream]], and [[Eitrigg]] meet with [[Thrall]] in [[Grommash Hold]] to discuss about recent problems and new leadership.
−
*[[Zul'Gurub]] is "gone as a raid instance come Cataclysm." It is now a subzone of [[Northern Stranglethorn]] and a quest hub.<ref>{{ref web|title=World of Warcraft - English (NA) Forums -> Cataclysm|url=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=26560871177&pageNo=1#18|author=[[Valnoth]]|archiveurl=http://www.worldofraids.com/wow-blue-tracker/us-forums/26560871177-zul-gurub-gone.html#18|archivedate=2010-09-08}}</ref>
  
  +
** Elemental Unrest phase 3 (November 12, 2010): [[Thrall]] has been moved to the [[Throne of the Elements]] in [[Nagrand]] and will no longer appear in the Hold for the rest of [[Cataclysm]].
−
*[[Ruins of Ahn'Qiraj]] will be retuned as a 10-player raid instance (at level 60) instead of the 20-player format it had prior to ''Cataclysm''.
  
  +
* [[Shok Narnes]], a level 20 orc (possibly a shaman) has been added to Grommash Hold.
   
−
====Future raids====
 +
===Stormwind City===
  +
* [[Archbishop Benedictus]] has a new wardrobe, and is now level 80 elite (up from level 60 elite).
−
An additional dungeon was expected to ship with release but was later announced as being delayed for unknown reasons: The '''[[Firelands]]''', a raid against the revived {{NPC||Ragnaros (Firelands tactics)||Ragnaros}} from [[Molten Core]]. The Firelands will be a large, outdoor-area raid in the first major patch post-release.
 
  +
* The Alliance leaders have gathered in the [[Stormwind Keep]] [[Throne Room]], discussing the recent earthquakes.
−
Also announced as a forthcoming ''Cataclysm'' raid is a '''[[War of the Ancients]]''' raid instance inside the [[Caverns of Time]].<ref>{{ref web|url=http://www.worldofraids.com/topic/17009-exclusive-tom-chilton-dishes-details-on-cataclysm/|author=Kody|date=13 June 2010|title=Exclusive: Tom Chilton Dishes Details On Cataclysm}}</ref>
  
  +
* [[Gavan Grayfeather]], a [[Wildhammer]] shaman has been added to the Throne Room. He stands behind the Alliance leaders, listening.
  +
** Elemental Unrest phase 3 (November 12, 2010): Alliance leaders have moved back to their respective cities. Gavan Grayfeather now resides in Nagrand.
   
  +
===Thunder Bluff===
−
==Factions and organizations==
  
  +
* [[Cairne Bloodhoof]] now wears two large totems on his back.
−
===New end-game factions===
  
  +
* [[Aponi Brightmane]] is now level 80 (up from level 55) and has Paladin abilities.
−
Numerous new factions are introduced in the expansion, and like in previous expansions feature quartermasters selling gear and other faction perks. New factions for end-game and leveling content include the following:
  
  +
* [[Tahu Sagewind]] is now level 80 (up from level 55) and has a new outfit.
   
  +
===Flight Paths===
−
*{{Neutral}} '''[[Guardians of Hyjal]]''', a group tasked with defense of [[Mount Hyjal]], besieged by Firelord [[Ragnaros]]' armies. Guardians are made up mainly of druids, much like the [[Cenarion Circle]]. The quartermaster is located at the lodge at the great tree [[Nordrassil]].
  
  +
* Most flight paths no longer go through as many locations.
−
*{{Neutral}} The '''[[Ramkahen]]''' are a race of cat-people, distant but direct descendants of the [[Tol'vir]], guardians of [[Uldum]]. Though they've lost their stone bodies, protecting the secrets of the [[Titan]]s is still a part of their rigid tradition. Their hub and quartermaster are in the center of the zone in the Ramkahen settlement.
  
−
*{{Neutral}} '''[[Therazane (faction)|Therazane]]''' the Stonemother, an elemental guardian, protects the elemental plane of earth, [[Deepholm]], from her throne. Players start off hated and must gain reputation through questing (like the [[Sons of Hodir]] in Northrend). [[Therazane's Throne]] is the hub of this faction including the quartermaster.
  
−
*{{Neutral}} The '''[[Earthen Ring]]''' are now a faction players can gain reputation with, having appeared in previous iterations of the game. The Earthen Ring are located within [[Vashj'ir]] battling the Naga; their quartermaster is located within [[Silver Tide Hollow]].
  
−
*{{Alliance}} '''[[Wildhammer Clan]]''' and {{Horde}} '''[[Dragonmaw Clan]]''' are the Alliance and Horde factions battling for control of the [[Twilight Highlands]] and the [[Twin Peaks]] battleground.
  
−
*{{Alliance}} '''[[Baradin's Wardens]]''' and {{Horde}} '''[[Hellscream's Reach]]''' are opposing faction forces on [[Tol Barad]]. Players will gain reputation through control of the island (PvP) and daily questing.
  
   
−
===New racial factions===
 +
===Water===
  +
* Flying mounts can land on water, and the character can dismount and re-mount again as long as they do not move.This may be a bug.
−  
−
*{{Alliance}} '''[[Gilneas (faction)|Gilneas]]''' is the [[worgen (playable)|worgen]] racial faction. The people of [[Gilneas]] are a nation of survivors; having walled themselves off from the rest of humanity, they must now face new threats from within.
  
−
*{{Horde}} The '''[[Bilgewater Cartel]]''' is the [[goblin (playable)|goblin]] racial faction. Run by the ruthless {{NPC||Trade Prince Gallywix}}, the Bilgewater Cartel is the most powerful trading company on the Isle of [[Kezan]]. From their headquarters at [[Bilgewater Port]], the cartel dominates trade all over the South Seas.
  
−  
−
==PvP==
  
−
Several new options for player-versus-player game play are available with ''Cataclysm'', including:
  
−
*'''[[Tol Barad]]''', an island fortress that blends outdoor PvP play (like [[Wintergrasp]]) with the expansion's main daily quest hub (like the [[Isle of Quel'Danas]]). The zone is split in two: the PvP area and the Tol Barad Peninsula. The Peninsula will always have six daily quests available to players (from their respective factions); winning control of the PvP portion of Tol Barad will grant six additional daily quests, three outdoors and three inside [[Baradin Hold]] (a raid instance that unlocks with each win like [[Vault of Archavon]].)
  
−
*The '''[[Battle for Gilneas]]''' is a new battleground in which players take control of the northwest sector of Gilneas (instanced), very much like [[Arathi Basin]]. This battleground was originally planned as "The Battle for Gilneas City" and would have taken place inside the city map itself, but this was later deemed unfeasible.
  
−
*'''[[Twin Peaks]]''' is a [[Capture the Flag|CTF]] battleground located in [[Twilight Highlands]], similar to [[Warsong Gulch]].
  
−  
−
Both of the new battlegrounds released with ''Cataclysm'' will be rated, like [[arena]]s, and will provide the same rewards as arenas. New arenas are planned to be added with the expansion, but not directly at the release.
  
−  
−
==Prominent figures==
  
−
Among the many figures confirmed to have major roles in the story of ''Cataclysm'' are:
  
−  
−
*[[Deathwing]], formerly Neltharion the Earth-Warder, is the main antagonist of the expansion. His return to the world from the elemental plane of earth, [[Deepholm]], is the catalyst for the Cataclysm that has impacted Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms. He will play a major role in questing and end-game content, and is expected to be the final boss of the expansion (in a later patch).
  
−
*[[Thrall]], the former leader of the [[Horde]] and the world's strongest [[shaman]], joins the [[Earthen Ring]] and has plenty of work to do after the Cataclysm.
  
−
*[[Garrosh Hellscream]] becomes the [[Horde]]'s acting [[Warchief]], and continues to cause internal tensions in the Horde, including alienating [[Vol'jin]], the Troll leader.
  
−
*[[Varian Wrynn]] now leads the [[Alliance]] after the Cataclysm.
  
−
*[[Malfurion Stormrage]] returns to prevent [[Mount Hyjal]] from being destroyed.
  
−
*[[Brann Bronzebeard]] is up to his old tricks as leader of the [[Explorers' Guild|expedition]] into the newly-uncovered [[Uldum]] region; also in the region is the archaeologist [[Harrison Jones]].
  
−
*[[Genn Greymane]], King of [[Gilneas]], helps administer a cure for the [[worgen]] curse to his now-transformed people.
  
−
*[[Nefarian]], also known as Victor Nefarius, son of Deathwing, survived his last battle and [[Blackwing Descent|retreated further]] into [[Blackrock Spire]].
  
−
*[[Ragnaros]] remains alive after his setback in the [[Molten Core]] to challenge the world in [[Mount Hyjal]], and later in [[Sulfuron Keep]] in his own realm, the [[Firelands]].
  
−
*[[Cho'gall]] and his [[Twilight's Hammer]] cult is a major player in the new expansion; its minions are revealed to be working for Deathwing.
  
−
*[[Therazane]] the Stonemother aids adventurers in [[Deepholm]].
  
−
*[[Neptulon]] enlists adventurers to battle the [[naga]] in [[Vashj'ir]], who are attempting to overthrow him and take control of his kingdom - the water.
  
−
*[[Azuregos]] and [[Kalecgos]] are left to protect the remainder of the [[blue dragonflight]] from Deathwing's wrath after the death of [[Malygos]].<ref>[http://www.worldofraids.com/topic/17178-cataclysm-lore-details/ Cataclysm Lore Details - World of Raids Forums]</ref>
  
−  
−
The Naga ruler and former leader of the Night Elves, [[Queen Azshara]], makes a small but important appearance during the leveling process in the Darkshore region. However, she is not expected to be an end-game boss during this expansion; it is surmised she will play a much larger role in the next expansion pack.
  
−  
−
==Detailed expansion alterations/updates==
  
−
===Stat changes===
  
−
*[[Attack power]] is being removed from gear. Death knights, paladins and warriors will still gain 2 attack power per point of [[strength]], and all druids, hunters, shamans and rogues will get 2 attack power per point of [[agility]] and no attack power from strength, with the exception of druids in bear form / dire bear form, who may get attack power from strength in order to allow them to share tanking cloaks, necklaces and rings with death knights, paladins and warriors.<ref>{{ref web|url=http://blue.mmo-champion.com/26/21035178557-questions-about-feral-tank-in-cataclysm.html|title=Questions about Feral Tank in Cataclysm|author=[[Ghostcrawler]]|accessdate=2010-02-11|date=2009-11-18|publisher=MMO-Champion}}</ref>
  
−
*[[Spell power]] is being removed from gear, with the exception of caster weapons. Characters will gain spell power from [[intellect]] much like how they currently gain [[attack power]] from agility and strength.
  
−
*[[MP5]] and [[spirit]]: MP5 is being removed, all healing specs will rely on spirit for mana regeneration, with the rate affected by the Meditation [[mastery system|passive talent tree bonus]]. The 5 second rule may be removed, with "in combat" and "out of combat" mana regeneration based on whether characters are in or out of combat. Spell DPS classes will no longer rely on spirit for mana regeneration, and spirit will no longer be on cloth spell DPS gear. Balance druids and elemental shamans will get talents to gain [[hit rating]] from spirit to allow them to share gear with healers and leather and mail caster gear will no longer have hit rating.<ref>http://blue.mmo-champion.com/1/23425636414-cataclysm-stat--system-changes.html</ref> Shadow Priests will also have hit conversion on one of their talents in order to make it easier for them to gear up through more options.<ref>http://blue.mmo-champion.com/t/25170444762/priest-cata-talents/</ref>
  
−
*[[Armor penetration]] is being removed from gear<ref>{{ref web|title=World of Warcraft - English (NA) Forums -> Pets, Scaling, And 3.3|url=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=20136603051&pageNo=1&sid=1#17|author=[[Ghostcrawler]]|archiveurl=http://blue.mmo-champion.com/28/20136603051-pets-scaling-and-33.html|archivedate=2009-10-08}}</ref>. However, some physical damage [[spec]]s may still be able to gain armor penetration through talents and / or [[mastery]] bonuses.
  
−
*[[Haste]] for melee and physical ranged DPS classes will affect the rate at which energy, rage, focus and runes are gained. Enhancement shamans and retribution paladins will gain talents which allow them to gain similar benefits from haste. It will continue to provide weapon speed increases for these classes<ref>{{ref web|title=World of Warcraft - English (NA) Forums -> Cataclysm Stat & System Changes|url=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=23425636414&pageNo=6#117|author=[[Eyonix]]}}</ref>. Haste for casters is unchanged.
  
−
*[[Block value]] is being removed from the game, blocking will provide 30% damage reduction, which can be increased through talent trees and mastery bonuses.
  
−
*[[Defense]] is being removed from the game, including both defense rating and the defense skill. All tanking specs will get anti-critical hit talents similar to [[Survival of the Fittest]].<ref>{{ref web|url=http://blue.mmo-champion.com/26/20677632379-icewell-radiance-is-in.html|title=Icewell Radiance is in!|author=[[Ghostcrawler]]|accessdate=2010-02-11|date=2009-10-29|publisher=MMO-Champion}}</ref>
  
−
*[[Weapon skill]]s are being removed. A character has the proficiencies for all the weapons his/her class can use from the start, and doesn't need to improve them.
  
−
*[[Resilience]] affects only damage and crit damage done by players.
  
−
*[[Mastery|Mastery rating]] is being added. The mastery bonuses will be trainable passive bonuses somewhere around level 75. Depending on the primary talent tree, characters will have a different Mastery available on the trainer with a base potency and 0 Mastery Rating.<ref name="DevChat#1">http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=26137024331&sid=1&pageNo=1#1</ref>
  
−  
−
===Professions===
  
−
*Profession level cap raised to 525 and will be named Illustrious Grand Master <Profession>.
  
−
*[[Reforging]] will allow, through specific NPCs, to convert a percentage of one item's secondary stat into another secondary stat (e.g. Hit -> Crit).
  
−
*New secondary profession: [[Archaeology]].
  
−
*[[Inscription]] will have three glyph tiers: Prime, Major and Minor glyphs (with primes being the ''old'' majors, and the ''new'' majors being a brand new tier of glyphs).<ref name="DevChat#1"/>
  
−
*[[Tailoring]], [[Leatherworking]] and [[Blacksmithing]] will have their specializations removed and related recipes will be baseline.
  
−
*Tons of new materials required for professions:
  
−
**'''Herbs''' - Cinderbloom, Stormvine, Heartblossom, Whiptail, Azshara's Veil and Twilight Jasmine.
  
−
**'''Jewels''' - ''Uncommon:'' Alicite (yellow), Nightstone (purple), Zephyrite (blue), Carnelian (red), Hessonite (orange), Jasper (green); ''Epic:'' Amberjewel (yellow), Demonseye (purple), Ocean Sapphire (blue), Inferno Ruby (red), Ember Topaz (orange), Dream Emerald (green), Shadowspirit Diamond (meta)
  
−
**'''Metals''' - Obsidium (and Cut or Folded Obsidium), Elementium (and Hardened Elementium), Pyrium, Truegold (a.k.a. Krovalian Gold), Ebonsteel
  
−
**'''Cloth''' - Embersilk cloth (drop), Dreamcloth (crafted)
  
−
**'''Skins''' - Savage Leather (and Heavy Savage Leather), Blackened Dragon Scale, Scarred Shell Fragment, Pristine Hide
  
−
**'''Inks''' - Blackfallow Ink (from Ashen Pigment, common), Inferno Ink (from Burning Embers, uncommon)
  
−
**'''Enchanting Items''' - Hypnotic Dust, Greater/Lesser Celestial Essence, Heavenly Shard (rare crystal), Maelstrom Crystal (epic crystal)
  
−
**'''Other Materials''' - Volatile Life/Earth/Air/Fire/Water/Shadow (elemental motes), Deepstone Oil (created from Albino Cavefish, like Pygmy Oil), Chaos Sphere (first tier orb)
  
−  
−
===Talents===
  
−
*Extensive revisions to the [[talent]] system: talent trees are cut down to 31-point talents (7 tiers each tree). Players will gain a talent point about every two levels up to 80, instead of every level, and then 1 every level after 80 for a total of 41 talent points at level 85 (vs. 71 points at level 80 in WotLK)<ref name="Class & Mastery Systems"/>
  
−
*Selecting a primary talent tree is unlocked at level 10 and a tree must be chosen before talent points can be spent in it. This will provide passive bonuses and a unique active ability. Players will be unable to spend talent points in a secondary tree until they have invested 31 points in your primary tree (at roughly level 70).<ref name="Class & Mastery Systems">http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=25626290449&sid=1</ref>
  
−
*Many passive talents with generic bonuses, such as increased critical strike chance, damage reduction or increased healing, and specifically those that provide bonuses to buffs and perhaps debuffs, are being removed.<ref name="Class & Mastery Systems"/>
  
−  
−
===PvE and PvP===
  
−
* 25-player raid leaders will have the possibility to split down the raid into a maximum of three 10-player raids. This is to allow players to continue a raid even if someone has left the group. 10-player raids cannot, however, be converted into a 25-player raid.
  
−
* 10- and 25-player raids will share the same ID in Cataclysm. However, players will still be able to join any raid as long as they don't kill the same boss twice in the same lockout. This means players will be able to continue a raid with a different group at the condition the new group is the same point or beyond the invited player.
  
−
* While 10- and 25-player raids in Cataclysm will give the same loot, the 25-player mode will give more loot per character.
  
−
* There will only be four different "badges" in Cataclysm, now all called Points: two PvE ([[Justice Point|Justice]] and [[Valor Point]]s) and two PvP ([[Honor point|Honor]] and [[Conquest Point]]s).
  
−
**Justice Points and Honor Points will only have a cap on the total number of points that can be accumulated.
  
−
**PvE Valor Points and PvP Conquest Points will have a cap on the total number of points, as well as a cap on the maximum amount of points earned in a week.
  
−
* Cataclysm will include a new "auto-quest" mechanic, allowing players to pick up the next quest in a chain without having to go back to the original quest giver, or start on quests simply by entering an area or killing specified units.
  
−  
−
===Race and class changes===
  
−
All of these combinations, excluding the goblin and worgen options, will be available to all players regardless of expansion level in [[Patch 4.0.3a]].<ref name="ClassRace403"/> Goblins and worgen are limited to ''Cataclysm'' purchasers.
  
−
{|class=darktable style="width: 75%"
  
−
!colspan=11 style="color:inherit"|Cataclysm class chart <ref>{{ref web
  
−
|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm/features/
  
−
|title=World of Warcraft: Cataclysm - Features
  
−
|publisher={{Blizz}} Blizzard Entertainment
  
−
|accessdate=2009-08-28
  
−
|quote=Explore Azeroth as a gnome priest, blood elf warrior, or one of the other never-before-available race and [http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm/_images/features/raceclassmatrix_en_US.jpg class combinations].}}</ref>
  
−
|-
  
−
! !!{{Class|DeathKnight|notext}} !! {{Class|Druid|notext}} !! {{Class|Hunter|notext}} !! {{Class|Mage|notext}} !! {{Class|Paladin|notext}} !! {{Class|Priest|notext}} !! {{Class|Rogue|notext}} !! {{Class|Shaman|notext}} !! {{Class|Warlock|notext}} !! {{Class|Warrior|notext}}
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Draenei (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes||Yes||Yes|| ||Yes|| ||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Dwarf (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}||Yes||Yes||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}||{{text|Green|New}}<ref name="Dwarf-n-Troll Warlocks">http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=24702205296&pageNo=1&sid=2000#8</ref>||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Gnome (playable)}} ||Yes|| || ||Yes|| ||{{text|Green|New}}||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Human (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||{{text|Green|New}}||Yes||Yes||Yes||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Night elf (playable)}} ||Yes||Yes||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}|| ||Yes||Yes|| || ||Yes
  
−
|-class=alt style="color:green;"
  
−
|{{Alliance}} {{Race|Worgen (playable)}} ||New||New||New||New|| ||New||New|| ||New||New
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Blood elf (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes||Yes||Yes||Yes|| ||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}
  
−
|-class=alt style="color:green;"
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Goblin (playable)}} ||New|| ||New||New|| ||New||New||New||New||New
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Orc (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}|| || ||Yes||Yes||Yes||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Tauren (playable)}} ||Yes||Yes||Yes|| ||{{text|Green|New}}||{{text|Green|New}}|| ||Yes|| ||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Troll (playable)}} ||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}||Yes||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes||Yes||{{text|Green|New}}<ref name="Dwarf-n-Troll Warlocks"/>||Yes
  
−
|-
  
−
|{{Horde}} {{Race|Undead (playable)}} ||Yes|| ||{{text|Green|New}}||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes|| ||Yes||Yes
  
−
|}
  
−  
−
==Zones affected by the Cataclysm==
  
−
:''For detailed zone changes in the current beta patch, see [[Patch 4.0.3a (world changes)]]. See also: [[Cataclysm map comparison]]''
  
−
These changes are not phased. The world-changing patch will happen in [[Patch 4.0.3a]], not [[Patch 4.0.1]] as believed earlier. They will be seen by everyone, from level 1 to 85, whether or not they buy the expansion.<ref>{{blizzforumlink|topicid=20677768276|sid=1|page=2#24|subject=24. Re: #BlizzChat Developer Chat on Twitter|datetime =2009-10-22 03:40:00 PM PDT|author=[[Aratil]]}}</ref>
  
−  
−
====Kalimdor====
  
−
[[File:Southern Kalimdor Level Flow.jpg|thumb|The new level flow for Southern Kalimdor]]
  
−
*'''[[Ashenvale]]''': A huge volcano erupts at the center of the zone. Heavier deforestation around the [[Warsong Lumber Camp]] causes the orcs to encroach on [[Silverwind Refuge]]. [[Zoram'gar Outpost]] is reinforced with black iron, similar to the Horde outposts in Northrend. [[Astranaar]] becomes the victim of air assaults launched by the Horde. New flight paths: Blackfathom Camp, Stardust Spire (Alliance); Hellscream's Watch, Silverwind Refuge (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Azshara]]''': The zone has been claimed by the goblins, reshaping it in the shape of the Horde crest. A new pass has been cut in the mountains between Azshara and Orgrimmar. [[Bilgewater Harbor]] has been built in between the two peninsulas. The rocketway stretches the length of the zone allowing for faster access from one side to the other. Trade Prince Gallywix has built a new pleasure palace in the west. Valor'mok and Talrendis Point have been obliterated. New flight paths: Bilgewater Harbor, Bitter Reaches, Southern Rocketway Terminus (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Azuremyst Isle]]''': The draenei have built a new flight path at Azure Watch (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Barrens|The Barrens]]''': The Barrens has been split in two by great fissures in the land, spouting fiery rivers of lava.
  
−
**The '''[[Northern Barrens]]''' is a level 10-20 zone, largely unchanged geographically from its prior incarnation. New flight paths: The Mor'Shan Ramparts, Nozzlepot's Outpost (Horde).
  
−
**The '''[[Southern Barrens]]''' intended for higher level players; portions have grown lush thanks to the work of the druid {{NPC||Naralex}}. The passage into [[Mulgore]] has been closed by the tauren with high walls and a gate as a response to the Alliance moving into the Southern Barrens, constructing several towers and burning down [[Camp Taurajo]], which is now completely destroyed.<ref>{{ref web
  
−
|url=http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2009/08/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm
  
−
|title=Q&A: How ''Cataclysm'' Will Change ''WoW'' Forever
  
−
|author=[mailto:tracey.wired@gmail.com Tracey John]
  
−
|date=August 25, 2009 5:16 pm
  
−
|accessdate=2009-08-28
  
−
|publisher=Wired.com}}</ref> New flight paths: Honor's Stand, Northwatch Hold, Fort Triumph (Alliance); Hunter's Hill, Desolation Hold (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Darkshore]]''': [[Auberdine]] is destroyed, and the very land torn asunder. The Alliance relocates to a new town in the northern end of the zone called [[Lor'danel]]. [[Shatterspear Village]], previously a [[closed zone]], is now accessible. New flight paths: Lor'danel, Grove of the Ancients (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Darnassus]]''': The city hosts a new worgen area called the [[Howling Oak]]. There is a new flight path in-city that connects to [[Dolanaar]] and [[Rut'theran Village]] far below, though the transporter still functions.
  
−
*'''[[Desolace]]''': Once a barren wasteland, the Cataclysm has caused a rift to form, allowing water to flood in from the coast and bring life back to the region. However, the region is now being invaded by demons, including [[shivarra]]. New flight paths: Thargad's Camp (Alliance); Furien's Post (Horde); Thunk's Abode, Karnum's Glade, Ethel Rethor (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Durotar]]''': The [[Darkspear trolls]] have retaken the [[Echo Isles]] as a new starting area. Much of the western portion of the zone has been flooded. The gateway to Orgrimmar has been heavily reinforced. A ship dock near Skull Rock welcomes goblins from the Lost Isles. New flight paths: Razor Hill, Sen'jin Village (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Dustwallow Marsh]]''': The Alliance has built a highway through the swamp, connecting Theramore Isle directly with the western entrance to the zone.
  
−
*'''[[Exodar|The Exodar]]''': The city now includes a direct flight path connection with Rut'theran Village at Teldrassil, and the flight master has moved inside next to the bank.
  
−
*'''[[Feralas]]''': [[Feathermoon Stronghold]] has been razed by naga. The [[Isle of Dread]] has been flooded and sunk by tidal waves caused by the Cataclysm. New flight paths: Whisperwind Grove (Alliance); Irontree Clearing (Horde); Ruins of Constellas (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Mulgore]]''': The starter area for the tauren has been heavily assaulted resulting in a charred vale; the entrance has been blocked, leading the Tauren to construct a direct route to Bloodhoof Village. The gates into the zone have been blocked by Horde militia (access is available via Thunder Bluff). New flight path: Bloodhoof Village (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Orgrimmar]]''': After [[Garrosh Hellscream]] takes over control of the Horde, Orgrimmar becomes a heavily-armored fortress city. New areas include a central platform for flight masters, a "[[Goblin Slums]]" district and a rear gate into Azshara. The [[Valley of Honor]] has also become the second trade district, with its own bank, auction house and inn.
  
−
*'''[[Silithus]]''': While much of this zone remains the same as it always has, there is a new portal in [[Cenarion Hold]] to the [[Blasted Lands]], for players to continue their leveling journey.
  
−
*'''[[Stonetalon Mountains]]''': Eruptions decimate the landscape, spreading the flames of the [[Charred Vale]] even further. The goblins have cut through the mountains, forming a valley that leads into Ashenvale. The western coastline is now accessible. [[Stonetalon Peak]] has been destroyed by [[faceless one]]s and tendrils of an [[Old God]]. The battle between Horde and Alliance has become a major part of this zone. New flight paths: Thal'darah Overlook, Mirkfallon Post, Windshear Hold, Farwatcher's Glen, Northwatch Expedition Base Camp (Alliance); Cliffwalker Post, Krom'Gar Fortress, Malaka'jin, The Sludgewerks (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Tanaris]]''': The eastern part of the desert has been flooded, with [[Gadgetzan]] becoming beachfront property; [[Steamwheedle Port]] is destroyed and populated with homeless [[goblins]]. The pass to [[Uldum]] has opened up in [[Thistleshrub Valley]]. New flight paths: Gunstan's Dig (Alliance); Dawnrise Expedition (Horde); Bootlegger Outpost (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Teldrassil]]''': [[Rut'theran Village]] has been knocked off the base of Teldrassil and is now its own island just offshore. The docks have been reconstructed at Rut'theran after the obliteration of [[Auberdine]] in Darkshore.
  
−
*'''[[Thousand Needles]]''': The entire canyon floor has been flooded, resulting in the [[Shimmering Flats]] becoming a lake, destroying the Mirage Raceway. The eastern canyon wall has collapsed, opening up the coastline. Twilight Hammer agents and several pirate factions have taken up refuge on the cliffsides. [[Freewind Post]] has been captured by the [[Grimtotem tribe]]. [[Razorfen Downs]] has been moved to the Thousand Needles map from the Barrens map (no new dungeons in this zone despite early rumors). New flight path: Fizzle Pozzik's Speed Barge (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Un'Goro Crater]]''': {{NPC||Williden Marshal}} has relocated to [[Marshal's Stand]] just southeast of [[Fire Plume Ridge]], as [[Marshal's Refuge]] has been overrun by stone watchers. A second Titan overlook has been revealed in the eastern cliffside. New flight paths: Marshal's Stand, Mossy Pile (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Winterspring]]''': [[Darkwhisper Gorge]] is now part of [[Mount Hyjal]] and has been claimed by the [[Twilight's Hammer]].
  
−  
−
====Eastern Kingdoms====
  
−
[[File:Northern Eastern Kingdoms Level Flow.jpg|thumb|The new level flow for [[Lordaeron]]]]
  
−
*'''[[Arathi Highlands]]''': An increased Horde presence has entered the zone due to the takeover of Hillsbrad. New flight path: Galen's Fall (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Badlands]]''': Cut off from [[Loch Modan]], the Steamwheedle Cartel have set up the port town of [[Fuselight-by-the-Sea]] (which provides entrance via rocket for questers from the Eastern Plaguelands) and the hilltop community of [[Fuselight]] in the eastern portion of the zone. The [[Scar of the Worldbreaker (Badlands)|Scar of the Worldbreaker]] has obliterated the central portion of the zone: mountains have been sheared off and a huge chasm has been "dug" out. Kargath has been destroyed by the Cataclysm, [[New Kargath]] has been built just to the southwest, across from an Alliance toehold near the scar. New flight paths: Dustwind Dig, Dragon's Mouth (Alliance); New Kargath, Bloodwatcher Point (Horde); Fuselight (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Blasted Lands]]''': The cataclysm has opened the southern mountains, creating access to the coastline, and reforged the [[Tainted Scar]] into a forest. The orcs, worgen and blood elves have all made significant inroads into the area. New flight paths: Surwich (Alliance); Sunveil Excursion, Dreadmaul Hold (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Burning Steppes]]''': New neutral quest hubs both immediately south of [[Blackrock Mountain]] and in the center of the zone lead players on a quest to eradicate the [[Blackrock clan|Blackrock Army]]. A pass directly to the [[Swamp of Sorrows]] has opened up just east of [[Morgan's Vigil]]. New flight path: Chiselgrip (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Dun Morogh]]''': The gnomes of [[Gnomeregan (faction)|Gnomeregan]] have retaken the surface levels of [[Gnomeregan]] to open up the new [[gnomish starting experience]] as New Tinkertown. The [[Ironforge Airfield]] is finally accessible as a questing hub via transit from the [[Gol'Bolar Quarry]]. New flight paths: Kharanos, Gol'Bolar Quarry (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Duskwood]]''': The Worgen have settled the abandoned homes of [[Raven Hill]]. New flight path: Raven Hill (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Eastern Plaguelands]]''': The five guard towers have each been given flight paths. An invisible wall exists on the northern reaches of the zone (still forcing traffic to Ghostlands through the instance portal). In beta, Acherus is still accessible via flying mount to all classes but the flight path is non functional except for death knights. New flight paths: Crown Guard Tower, Corin's Crossing Tower, Eastwall Tower, Northpass Tower, Plaguewood Tower (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Elwynn Forest]]''': Northshire Valley has been invaded by orcs. One of the quarries has been closed. New flight paths: Goldshire, Eastvale Logging Camp (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Eversong Woods]]''': New flight path at Fairbreeze Village (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Hillsbrad Foothills]]''': The zone has been completely retooled, subsuming the [[Alterac Mountains]] (which is no longer its own zone). A massive Horde invasion has turned the entire zone into a Horde-only leveling area; [[Southshore]] has been destroyed by the [[New Plague|Forsaken Blight]], and [[Hillsbrad Fields]] have been corrupted and have become the Sludge Fields. New flight paths: Southpoint Gate, Ruins of Southshore, Eastpoint Tower, Strahnbrad (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[The Hinterlands]]''': Both the Horde and the Alliance have made new inroads into the interior of the zone. New flight paths: Stormfeather Outpost (Alliance); Hiri'watha Research Station (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Loch Modan]]''': The [[Stonewrought Dam]] has been destroyed; most of the water in the [[Loch]] has escaped and flooded the [[Wetlands]] below. The [[Twilight Citadel]] looms high in the [[Twilight Highlands]] just to the east. The path to the [[Badlands]] has been closed as a giant chasm now separates the zones. New flight path: Farstrider's Lodge (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Redridge Mountains]]''': The Lakeshire bridge has been completed, finally. The new quest chain involves saving the freshly-built bridge from the invading [[Blackrock clan|Blackrock orcs]] with the help of the Bravo Company, led by {{NPC||John J. Keeshan}}. A mountain pass high above the eastern edge allows transit to the Swamp of Sorrows, bypassing Redridge altogether. New flight paths: Camp Everstill, Shalewind Canyon, Keeshan's Post (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Searing Gorge]]''': A new quest hub has opened up just north of [[Blackrock Mountain]]. New flight path: Iron Summit (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Silverpine Forest]]''': The [[Greymane Wall]] has been destroyed by the Cataclysm, opening up the passage to [[Gilneas]]. [[The Sepulcher]] has been heavily fortified. The Forsaken build-up is intense as they prepare to invade Gilneas on Garrosh's (and Sylvanas's) orders. Some of the questing in this zone continues into the [[Ruins of Gilneas]] zone (the unphased Gilneas region in Azeroth). New flight paths: Forsaken High Command, Forsaken Front (Horde, both phased); Forsaken Forward Command (right inside Ruins of Gilneas on the far side of the Greymane Wall, also Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Stormwind City]]''': After Deathwing's return the city has been dramatically changed; [[the Park]] has been obliterated, and a new lake area and city cemetery have been opened. The castles and terrain have been remodeled to accommodate flying mounts. The Dwarven District now hosts a second bank, auction house and inn for the city. The Keep has been heavily remodeled.
  
−
*'''[[Stranglethorn Vale]]''': The vast zone has been split into two separate zones in the expansion set, [[Northern Stranglethorn]] (including Zul'Gurub) and the [[Cape of Stranglethorn]], split at the location of the Sundering. While there is one large map for the two zones (like in Vashj'ir) they are considered two individual zones:
  
−
**'''[[Northern Stranglethorn]]''': Also referred to on the larger map as Stranglethorn Jungle. [[Zul'Gurub]] is no longer a raid zone in the expansion; instead, it has become a questing area. Hemet Nesingwary Jr.'s campsite has been dramatically altered. New flight paths: Fort Livingston (Alliance); Bambala (Horde).
  
−
**'''[[Cape of Stranglethorn]]''': Booty Bay has been ransacked. Huge goblin oil constructions line the southern coast, and the Bloodsail Buccaneers have established a larger presence in the region. New flight paths: Explorer's League Digsite (Alliance); Hardwrench's Hideaway (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Swamp of Sorrows]]''': The Steamwheedle Cartel has set up [[Bogpaddle]] in the northeast corner of the zone. The Alliance has also established Marshtide Watch, a new fortress just north of the [[Pool of Tears]], which has opened up to the great sea. New flight paths: The Harborage, Marshtide Watch (Alliance); Bogpaddle (neutral).
  
−
*'''[[Tirisfal Glades]]''': [[Brill]] has been heavily fortified with new Forsaken architecture. The [[Ruins of Lordaeron]] have been heavily remodeled to accommodate flying mounts, including fleshing out the (abandoned) city, though the [[Undercity]] below remains unchanged. New flight path: Brill (Horde).
  
−
*'''[[Western Plaguelands]]''': After the {{NPC||Lich King||Lich King's}} downfall, the [[Scourge]] are easily subjugated, resulting in the beginnings of recovery in [[Felstone Field]], [[Dalson's Tears]], the [[Writhing Haunt]] and [[Gahrron's Withering]]. [[Andorhal]] is undergoing a three-way fight for control between the Alliance, Horde and what's left of the [[Scourge]]. [[Hearthglen]] has now become a home for the [[Argent Crusade]] led by {{NPC||Tirion Fordring}}, who has finally left his shack on the [[Thondroril River]] in [[Eastern Plaguelands]]. New flight paths: Western Andorhal (Alliance); Eastern Andorhal (Horde); the Mender's Stead, Hearthglen (neutral). The Thondoril River flight path has moved across the bridge to Eastern Plaguelands.
  
−
*'''[[Westfall]]''': The [[Gaping Chasm]] has formed as a result of the Cataclysm. [[Sentinel Hill]] has been fortified in an attempt to handle the large quantities of homeless affected because of the war in Northrend and the fall of the [[Defias Brotherhood]]. New flight paths: Moonbrook, Furlbrow's Pumpkin Farm (Alliance).
  
−
*'''[[Wetlands]]''': Heavily affected by [[Deathwing]]'s destructive exit from [[Deepholm]]. [[Menethil Harbor]] is underwater, as is the [[Mosshide Fen]] as a result of the destruction of the [[Stonewrought Dam]] in [[Loch Modan]]. The path to [[Grim Batol]] is now part of the [[Twilight Highlands]], with a breach leading east to the Highlands proper. New flight paths: Dun Modr, Whelgar's Retreat, Greenwarden's Grove, Slabchisel's Survey (Alliance).
  
−  
−
====Elsewhere====
  
−
*'''[[Dalaran]]''' (Northrend) and '''[[Shattrath]]''' (Outland): Portals to major Azeroth/Outland cities no longer exist; instead, class trainers have been established in these two cities to aid the leveling process. Auctioneers (for all classes) added. Flying now possible over/in Dalaran City.
 
−
*'''[[Dragonblight]]''' (Northrend): The quest [[Battle for the Undercity]] no longer exists in game.
  
−  
−
===Level ranges===
  
−
{| border="0"
  
−
| style="vertical-align:top;" |
  
−
{| class="darktable zebra" style="text-align:center;width:100%"
  
−
! colspan="3" | [[Eastern Kingdoms]]
  
−
|-
  
−
! Zone !! style="width: 15%;" | Old !! style="width: 10%;" | New
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Alterac Mountains]]
  
−
|30-40 || [[Hillsbrad Foothills|Merged]]
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Arathi Highlands]]
  
−
|30-40 || 25-30
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Badlands]]
  
−
|35-45 || 45-48
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Blasted Lands]]
  
−
|45-55 || 54-60
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Burning Steppes]]
  
−
|50-60 || 50-52
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Deadwind Pass]]
  
−
|55-60 || TBD
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Dun Morogh]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Duskwood]]
  
−
|20-30 || 20-25
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Eastern Plaguelands]]
  
−
|55-60 || 45-50
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Elwynn Forest]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Gilneas]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 1-12
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Hillsbrad Foothills]]
  
−
|20-30 || 20-25
  
−
|-
  
−
![[The Hinterlands]]
  
−
|40-50 || 30-35
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Loch Modan]]
  
−
|10-20 || 10-20
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Redridge Mountains]]
  
−
|15-25 || 15-20
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Searing Gorge]]
  
−
|40-50 || 48-50
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Silverpine Forest]]
  
−
|10-20 || 10-20
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Stranglethorn Vale]]<br/>[[Northern Stranglethorn]]<br/>[[Cape of Stranglethorn]]
  
−
|30-45<br/>{{c-inline}}<br/>{{c-inline}}<br/> || Split<br/>25-30<br/>30-35
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Swamp of Sorrows]]
  
−
|35-45 || 52-54
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Tirisfal Glades]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Twilight Highlands]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 84-85
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Western Plaguelands]]
  
−
|50-55 || 40-45
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Westfall]]
  
−
|10-20 || 10-15
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Wetlands]]
  
−
|20-30 || 25-30
  
−
|}
  
−
| style="vertical-align:top;" |
  
−
{| class="darktable zebra" style="text-align:center;width:100%"
  
−
! colspan="3" | [[Kalimdor]]
  
−
|-
  
−
! Zone !! style="width: 20%;" | Old !! style="width: 10%;" | New
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Ahn'Qiraj: The Fallen Kingdom]]
  
−
|{{C-inline}} || ??
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Ashenvale]]
  
−
|20-30 || 20-25
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Azshara]]
  
−
|45-55 || 10-20
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Barrens]]<br/>[[Northern Barrens]]<br/>[[Southern Barrens]]
  
−
|10-30<br/>{{c-inline}}<br/>{{c-inline}}<br/> || Split<br/>10-20<br/>30-35
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Darkshore]]
  
−
|10-20 || 10-20
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Desolace]]
  
−
|30-40 || 30-35
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Durotar]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Dustwallow Marsh]]
  
−
|35-45 || 35-40
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Felwood]]
  
−
|48-55 || 45-50
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Feralas]]
  
−
|40-50 || 35-40
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Moonglade]]
  
−
|1-70 || 1-70
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Mount Hyjal]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 80-82
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Mulgore]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Silithus]]
  
−
|55-60 || 55-60
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Stonetalon Mountains]]
  
−
|15-30 || 25-30
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Tanaris]]
  
−
|40-50 || 45-50
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Teldrassil]]
  
−
|1-10 || 1-10
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Thousand Needles]]
  
−
|25-35 || 40-45
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Uldum]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 83-84
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Un'goro Crater]]
  
−
|48-55 || 50-55
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Winterspring]]
  
−
|55-60 || 50-55
  
−
|}
  
−
| style="vertical-align:top;" |
  
−
{| class="darktable zebra" style="text-align:center;width:100%"
  
−
! colspan="3" | [[Great Sea]]
  
−
|-
  
−
! Zone !! style="width: 15%;" | Old !! style="width: 10%;" | New
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Kezan]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 1-5
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Lost Isles]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 5-12
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Tol Barad]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 84-85<br/>PvP
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable zebra" style="text-align:center;width:100%"
  
−
! colspan="3" | [[Vashj'ir]]
  
−
|-
  
−
! Zone !! style="width: 5%;" | Old !! style="width: 5%;" | New
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Abyssal Depths]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 80-82
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Kelp'thar Forest]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 80-82
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Shimmering Expanse]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 80-82
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable zebra" style="text-align:center;width:100%"
  
−
! colspan="3" | [[Elemental Plane]]
  
−
|-
  
−
! Zone !! style="width: 15%;" | Old !! style="width: 10%;" | New
  
−
|-
  
−
![[Deepholm]]
  
−
|{{c-inline}} || 82-83
  
−
|}
  
−
|}
  
−  
−
==Bestiary==
  
−
[[File:Volcanoth art.jpg|thumb|''Volcanoth'', a monstrous volcano-turtle.]]
  
−
*[[Barramunda]]
  
−
*[[Camel]]
  
−
*[[Dark troll]]
  
−
*[[Deep sea murloc]]
  
−
*[[Djinn]]
  
−
*[[Dodo]]
  
−
*[[Elemental|Elemental Castes]] (such as the new [[Earth elemental]]s)
  
−
*[[Ettin]]
  
−
*[[Fox]]
  
−
*[[Gilgoblin]]
  
−
*[[Hobgoblin]]
  
−
*[[Jungle plant]]
  
−
*[[Lava worm]]
  
−
*[[Lost Isle dinosaur]]
  
−
**[[Spiny raptor]]
  
−
*[[Mastiff]]
  
−
*[[Monkey]]
  
−
*[[Pygmy]]
  
−
*[[Raptoryx]]
  
−
*[[Seagull]]
  
−
*[[Seahorse]]
  
−
*[[Sea hag]]
  
−
*[[Shale spider]]
  
−
*[[Shapeless|The Shapeless]]
  
−
*[[Skardyn]]
  
−
*[[Snail]]
  
−
*[[Stone dragon]]
  
−
*[[Stone trogg]]
  
−
*[[Storm dragon]]
  
−
*[[Thorn sprite]]
  
−
*[[Tol'vir]]
  
−
*[[Volcanoth]]
  
−  
−
==Interface==
  
−
===Launcher===
  
−
[[File:Launcher-v4.0.1.12857.png|thumb|The new Cataclysm-themed launcher]]
  
−
The launcher has been updated to stream installation and patch data from the servers instead of being required to download it all before playing. The new launcher is broken up into three stages of download progress:
  
−  
−
* {{text|red|<strong>SETUP (RED):</strong>}} Core game, or 5% of content, is being prepared. You cannot enter the game at this time.
  
−
* {{text|yellow|<strong>AVAILABLE (YELLOW):</strong>}} Base game, or 70% of content, is not completely applied. You can play, but your game experience will not be ideal. You should ideally have 1 MB/sec or better when choosing to play.
  
−
* {{text|green|<strong>PLAYABLE (GREEN):</strong>}} Extended, or 25% of content, is almost complete. You may begin playing at this stage with few game issues. You should ideally have 1 MB/sec or better when choosing to play.
  
−  
−
The updater and downloader have been integrated closely into the Launcher, resulting in less application switching when patching and installing.<ref>https://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=26262801168&pageNo=1&sid=2000#0</ref>
  
−  
−
===Main interface===
  
−
[[File:Leveling overlay.jpg|thumb|A new overlay appears whenever you gain a level.]]
  
−
[[File:Guild invite in Cataclysm.jpg|thumb|New guild invite interface.]]
  
−
*Practically everything about the interface has changed.
  
−
*The spellbook is now more intuitive and tells you what spells you've missed to train.
  
−
*The paperdoll interface has changed.
  
−
*When a player gains a level you can more clearly see what level was gained as well as what new abilities are available to train.
  
−
*Guild invites has a new look, showing the level of the guild.
  
−  
−
===Class-specific UI elements===
  
−
*[[Balance]] [[druid]]s got a new interface for the handling of their redesigned [[eclipse]] mechanic.
  
−
*[[Paladin]]s gained a new interface to accommodate their new [[Holy Power (resource)|Holy Power]] mechanic beneath the health and mana bar, as well as radial elements situated around the player avatar to track some of their proc abilities.
  
−
*[[Warlock]]s got a new [[Soul Shard]] interface.
  
−
{{clr}}
  
−  
−
==Info compilations==
  
−
*[[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm/Fact sheet|Fact sheet]]
  
−
*[[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm/FAQ|FAQ]]
  
−
*[[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm/Press release|Press release]]
  
−  
−
==Gallery==
  
−
<gallery widths="120" captionalign="left">
  
−
File:Cataclysm Abyssal Maw.jpg|[[Abyssal Maw]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Horde in Ashenvale.jpg|[[Ashenvale]]
  
−
File:Auberdine Destroyed - Cataclysm Trailer.jpg|[[Auberdine]] ([[Darkshore]])
  
−
File:Cataclysm Darkshore.jpg|[[Darkshore]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Darkshore - Shatterspear.jpg|[[Darkshore]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Desolace Invasion.jpg|[[Desolace]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Desolace Landscape.jpg|[[Desolace]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Female Goblin.jpg|Female [[Goblin]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gilneas.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gilneas - City Streets.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gilneas - House.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gilneas - Lighthouse.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gilneas - Windmills.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Goblinplayablerace.jpg|[[Goblins]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Goblin Priest, Mage, and Warlock.jpg|[[Goblin]]s
  
−
File:Cataclysm Goblin Warlock and Hunter.jpg|[[Goblin]]s
  
−
File:Lost Isles.PNG|[[Lost Isles]]
  
−
File:Lost isles.jpg|[[Lost Isles]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Lost Isles - Battle.jpg|[[Lost Isles]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Southern Barrens.jpg|[[Southern Barrens]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Stonetalon Mountains Witch-Doctor.jpg|[[Stonetalon Mountains]]
  
−
File:Orgrimmar Cataclysm Trailer.jpg|[[Orgrimmar]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Barrens.jpg|[[The Barrens]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Gates of Mulgore.jpg|[[The Great Gate]] ([[Barrens]])
  
−
File:Cataclysm Worgen2.jpg|[[Worgen]] [[druid]]
  
−
File:Stonetalon Rocket.jpg|[[Stonetalon Mountains]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Stonetalon Mountains Platform.jpg|[[Stonetalon Mountains]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Upper Blackrock Spire - Bridge.jpg|[[Blackrock Spire]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Worgen.jpg|[[Gilneas]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Worgen in Arathi Basin.jpg|[[Arathi Basin]]
  
−
File:Nordrassil Cataclysm.jpg|[[Nordrassil]] ([[Mount Hyjal]])
  
−
File:Cataclysm Mount Hyjal.jpg|[[Mount Hyjal]]
  
−
File:Vashj'ir.jpg|[[Vashj'ir]]
  
−
File:Vashj'ir 2.jpg|[[Vashj'ir]]
  
−
File:Vashj'ir 3.jpg|[[Vashj'ir]]
  
−
File:Vashj'ir 4.jpg|[[Vashj'ir]]
  
−
File:Echo Isles - Post Cataclysm 01.jpg|[[Echo Isles]]
  
−
File:Echo Isles - Post Cataclysm 05.jpg|[[Echo Isles]]
  
−
File:Echo Isles - Post Cataclysm 02.jpg|[[Echo Isles]]
  
−
File:Echo Isles - Post Cataclysm 03.jpg|[[Echo Isles]]
  
−
File:Echo Isles - Post Cataclysm 04.jpg|[[Echo Isles]]
  
−
File:Sea Goblin.jpg|Gilgoblin
  
−
File:BLPostCataclysm.jpg|[[Blasted Lands]]
  
−
File:Brill - Post Cataclysm.jpg|[[Brill]] ([[Tirisfal Glades]])
  
−
File:Swamps of Sorrows - Post Cataclysm.jpg|[[Swamp of Sorrows]]
  
−
File:Cata some gilgoblins.jpg|Gilgoblins in [[Abyssal Maw]]
  
−
File:GrimBatolGronn.jpg|[[Grim Batol]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Eel.jpg|An [[eel]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Thousand Needles Barge.jpg|[[Thousand Needles]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Thousand Needles Barge2.jpg|[[Thousand Needles]]
  
−
File:Cataclysm Twilight Highlands.jpg|[[Twilight Highlands]]
  
−
File:Muca3.JPG|[[Mulgore]]
  
−
File:Mulgore, cata2.JPG|[[Mulgore]]
  
−
File:Submarine.jpg|A [[Gnome]] Submarine
  
−
File:Gnomish-submarine.jpg|A Gnomish submarine
  
−
File:Goblin Submarine.jpg|A [[Goblin]] submarine
  
−
File:Abyssal-Seahorse.jpg|[[Abyssal Seahorse]]
  
−
</gallery>
  
−  
−
===Concept art===
  
−
<gallery widths="120">
  
−
File:Cataclysm Map.jpg|Concept maps of the new zones in Cataclysm (enlarged).
  
−
File:Image1 WetZone.jpg|Underwater zone
  
−
File:Volcano.jpg|Volcano
  
−
File:Maelstrom concept art.jpg|The Maelstrom
  
−
File:Camel art.jpg|Camel
  
−
File:Lesser Elemental Earth art.jpg|Lesser Elemental Earth
  
−
File:Lesser Elemental Fire art.jpg|Lesser Elemental Fire
  
−
File:Deep Sea Murloc concept art.jpg|Deep Sea Murloc
  
−
File:Seahorse concept art.jpg|Seahorse
  
−
File:Dark troll concept art.jpg|Dark Troll
  
−
File:Thorn Sprite concept art.jpg|Thorn Sprite
  
−
File:The Shapeless concept art.jpg|Shapeless
  
−
File:Sea Hag concept art.jpg|Sea Hag
  
−
File:Raptoryx concept art.jpg|Raptoryx
  
−
File:Barramunda concept art.jpg|Barramunda
  
−
File:Lost Isle Dinosaurs concept art.jpg|Dinosaurs on the Lost Isles
  
−
File:Dodo concept art.jpg|Dodo
  
−
File:Gilgoblin concept art.jpg|Gilgoblin
  
−
File:Volcanoth.jpg|Volcanoth
  
−
File:Shale Spider concept art.jpg|Shale Spider
  
−
File:Skardyn.jpg|Skardyn
  
−
File:Tol'vir concept art.jpg|Tol'vir
  
−
File:Cataclysm concept art - Unnamed02.jpg|Unknown
  
−
File:Cataclysm concept art - Unnamed02b.jpg|Unknown mount
  
−
File:Cataclysm concept art - Unnamed02c.jpg|Unknown
  
−
File:Tier11 Hunter concept art.jpg|"Tier 11 hunter"
  
−
File:Tier11 Warrior concept art.jpg|"Tier 11 warrior"
  
−
</gallery>
  
−  
−
==Videos==
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' Cinematic
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>Wq4Y7ztznKc</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' TV Spot
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>QfPtkexMc14</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{{clr}}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft Cataclysm'' Official trailer
  
−
|- <!-- READ THIS: If anyone else decides to change the video link to another of the same thing, but only reason being to change it is cause you uploaded it, will be banned and the change reverted. This will be the only warning. -->
  
−
| <youtube>Jnb6RW6wOFQ</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! Before/After ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm''
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>SbRoS1zi8lw</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{{clr}}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' zone changes
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>vDXb4XnPChA</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' zone changes
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>pA3lNoBKPkE</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{{clr}}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' dungeon preview
  
−
|-
  
−
| <youtube>2dYnTx4nijg</youtube>
  
−
|
  
−
|}
  
−
{| class="darktable" style="text-align:center; float:left;"
  
−
! Entire Map Overview of All Zones
  
−
|-
  
−
|<youtube>rkpzl010b8Q</youtube>
  
−
|}
  
−
{{clr}}
  
−  
−
==Canceled features==
  
−
*Revamped character progression via the [[Paths of the Titans]], and [[Ancient glyph]]s was planned and announced, but later canceled.<ref name="mmoc-presstour">http://www.mmo-champion.com/content/1790-World-of-Warcraft-Cataclysm-Press-Tour</ref>
  
−
*Guild talents and guild currency have been removed. Instead, guild advancement bonuses are automatically unlocked based on guild level<ref name="mmoc-presstour"/>
  
−
*The large "neutral port" on Blizzcon 2009 maps, set between the Eastern Plaguelands and Hinterlands and expected to be a sanctuary town, did not materialize. Instead, a smaller goblin port appeared in the Badlands.
  
−  
−
==Scams==
  
−
Thousands of players have received e-mails inviting them to join an "alpha test". These are scammers who are looking to capitalize on unsuspecting victims.<ref>{{ref web |url=http://www.examiner.com/x-14467-SF-MMORPG-Examiner~y2009m7d16-World-of-Warcraft-scam-alpha-test |title=World of Warcraft scam alpha test |accessdate=2009-08-20 |author=Andrew Powers |date=2009-07-16}}</ref>
  
−  
−
A few points to remember if you receive an invitation to help test Cataclysm or any Blizzard product:
  
−  
−
*Blizzard does not invite the general player base to alpha tests. It has an army of game developers and testers for that. As with the previous two expansions, beta testing will be announced by Blizzard on [http://www.worldofwarcraft.com the official World of Warcraft website]. Beware of clicking official-looking links to that site in e-mails, as scammers often build official-looking copycat sites - instead bookmark the official site or use the link on the game login screen.
  
−
*It cannot be stressed enough to players that Blizzard will never ask you for your credit card, password, user name, e-mail address or any other information it already has. This will not happen ingame, nor in e-mail. '''If you are asked for this info, you are being scammed.'''
  
−
*Now that the Cataclysm beta test has begun, scammers have begun sending emails advertising beta access. Beta access will always be made available through your battle.net account, and you will be notified through the email address used to create that account. To be sure an email offering beta access is legitimate, do not follow links in the email; instead, go directly to the account management website (where if the email notification was legitimate, you will be able to download the beta client). There is a thread in the official forums by MVP Frejya about [http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=19820323054&sid=1 what to expect] from Blizzard.
  
   
 
==References==
  
==References==
  +
<references/>
−
{{reflist|2}}
  
−  
−
==External links==
  
−
<!-- Read http://www.wowpedia.org/Wowpedia:External_links before posting your links here.
  
−
Links that do not conform to the rules will be DELETED.
  
−
Repeat violations may result in a BAN.
  
−
Have a nice day. :) -->
  
−
{{elink|type=wowus|link=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm|desc=Official site}}
  
−
:{{elink|type=wowus|link=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm/features/|desc=Features}}
  
−
:{{elink|type=wowus|link=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm/media/|desc=Media}}
  
−
:{{elink|type=wowus|link=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/cataclysm/faq/|desc=FAQ}}
  
−
:{{elink|prefix={{cata-inline}}|type=wowus|site=Official forum|link=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/board.html?forumId=78416&sid=1}}
  
−
{{elink|icon=bnet|site=World of Warcraft (Battle.net)|link=http://us.battle.net/wow}}
  
−
:{{elink|icon=bnet|site=Digital Pre-sale|link=http://us.battle.net/en/info/presale|desc=for World of Warcraft: Cataclysm}}
  
−
{{elink|type=woweu|site=Official forums|link=http://forums.wow-europe.com/thread.html?topicId=10546328033&sid=1|desc=Schwick's Info About Expansion}}
  
−
{{elink|type=wowus|site=Official forums|link=http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=19377467311&sid=1|desc=Frejya's Cataclysm Compilation}}
  
−  
   
 
{{patches}}
  
{{patches}}
−
{{games}}
  
−
[[da:World of Warcraft: Cataclysm]]
  
−
[[es:World of Warcraft: Cataclysm]]
  
−
[[fr:Cataclysm]]
  
−
[[pl:World of Warcraft: Cataclysm]]
  
−
[[ru:World of Warcraft: Cataclysm]]
  
−
[[Category:Games]]
  
−
[[Category:Warcraft computer games]]
  
−
[[Category:World of Warcraft]]
  
−
[[Category:Cataclysm| ]]
  
−
[[Category:Not Yet Implemented]]
  
−
[[Category:Expansions]]
  

Revision as of 17:23, 4 December 2010

Icon-patch-22x22 Patch 4.0.1 (undocumented changes)
“Cataclysm Systems”
Cataclysm systems patch
Release date 2010-10-12
Initial version 13164
Interface .toc (changes)
Highlights & notes
  • New streaming launcher
  • UI and class mechanics revamp
Patch chronology
Useful links
Patches • Patches category

Stat Changes

Stat Changes

  • Stamina — Due to the assigning of Strength, Agility, and Intellect, non-plate wearers have more Stamina than before. Health pools are now much closer between plate-wearers and other classes.
  • Spirit — This stat should only be found on healing gear. Non-healing casters have other systems in place to regenerate mana.
  • Intellect — Intellect now grants Spell Power and increases your Critical Strike chance with spells.
  • Haste — Haste should now be more attractive for melee classes by allowing them to recover resources such as rage, energy, and runes more quickly. Our intention is for Haste to let you "do stuff" more often.
  • Parry — Parry provides the same avoidance as Dodge, and you'll receive a percentage of your strength as Parry Rating.
  • Mastery — This is a new stat that will allow players to become better at whatever makes their chosen talent tree cool or unique. It's directly tied to talents, so what you gain from improving this stat is entirely dependent upon your class and the talent specialization you choose. We’ll talk more about specific Mastery benefits in the future.
  • Armor — The amount of bonus Armor received per stat point on items has been drastically reduced, and Armor is no longer given by Agility. In addition, Armor now better mitigates differences among Armor types so that protection from mail, leather, and cloth is much closer to that of plate.
  • Resilience — This now only affects damage done by players and their pets. It will not impact crit chance, crit damage, mana drains, or other such effects.

Removed From Items

  • Attack Power — This stat is rarely present on items, although it is derived from other stats. Strength and Agility, which are present on items, grant the appropriate amount of Attack Power (generally 2 Attack Power per point of Strength or Agility) depending upon which stat a particular class favors.
  • Block Rating — Block has been redesigned to scale better. Blocked attacks will simply hit for 30% less damage. Block Rating is no longer given out directly as a stat. Instead, Mastery for Protection paladins and Protection warriors increases the chance to block.
  • Spell Power — Spell Power is no longer present on most items. Instead, as mentioned above, Intellect now grants Spell Power. One exception is that caster weapons still have Spell Power. This allows us to make weapons proportionately more powerful for casters in the same way they are for melee classes.
  • Armor Penetration — This stat is no longer present on items. Armor Penetration still exists in talents and abilities.
  • Shield Block Value — There are some effects that increase the Block value by a percentage, but this does not exist as a stat.

Removed From the Game

  • MP5 — This stat no longer exists in the game. Holy paladins and Restoration shaman have been redesigned to benefit from Spirit.
  • Defense — Defense is now removed from the game. Tanking classes will become uncrittable versus creatures by shifting into Defensive Stance, Blood Presence, or Bear Form, or by using Righteous Fury.
  • Spell Ranks — Spell ranks now cease to exist. All spells have one rank and will scale appropriately by caster level. The levels at which you can learn certain spells have been changed in order to fill in some of the gaps, and there are many new spells to learn along the way as well.
  • Weapon Skill — This stat will be removed from the game completely. Classes will start with all the weapon skills they need to know and will not need to improve them.

What Else You Should Know

  • Combat ratings — Ratings are much harder to "cap out" at maximum gear levels. Ratings are steeper in Cataclysm, and creatures in later tiers of content will be harder to hit or crit, similar to how level-83 mobs are harder to hit or crit than level-80 mobs.
  • Reforging — This new itemization customization feature allows you to partially change the stats on an item. You can reduce the value of an existing stat on an item, and add an equivalent amount of another stat that was not already present on the item. This makes it far easier to reach important thresholds like the Hit Rating and Expertise Rating caps.[1]

Player Versus Player

  • Battlegrounds will no longer close when both sides are below the minimum player requirement.
  • There is a soft cap of 4000 honor points. Once over the cap you will not earn any more honor, nor be able to refund items to the quartermasters until you are under the cap.
  • Players level-capped due to not having the next expansion are now placed in the same battleground brackets as those who have experience turned off.

Achievements

Talents

  • A total of 36 points at level 80 (down from 71).
  • Each tree only requires 31 points to reach the last tier (down from 41).
  • You must now select only one tree. Once you do, you are given a primary ability for that spec, and two or three attributes specific for that spec. At level 80, you are given a Mastery trait also specific for the spec you chose, learned at your trainer.
  • You cannot put points into any other tree until you have put 31 into your first tree.

Experience

The maximum experience needed to level from 1-40 has been reduced by a significant amount.

Classes

Main article: Patch 4.0.1 (class changes)
  • The price of dual specialization is reduced from 1000 gold to 100 gold.
  • Health regeneration uses a new formula. Outside of combat, all classes seem to regenerate 0.75% of their maximum health per second before the effects of abilities.
  • Mana regeneration uses a new formula.
  • Class buffs can no longer be applied to player-controlled pets.
  • Class buffs and their raid-wide counterparts have been consolidated into a single spell. When the target of the buff is within your party or raid (including yourself), the buff applies to the entire raid. Reagents are no longer required for these abilities.
  • Dispell abilities will no longer be prevented from casting when the target does not have a valid debuff to dispell. It will consume the mana cost of the ability and global cooldown despite doing nothing.

Mounts

  • All mounts now scale with riding skill - level 20 60% mounts will now move at 100% speed with epic riding.
  • The Ability mount rocketmount2 [X-53 Touring Rocket] can now also be used as a ground mount.
  • Players can now instantly transition in Dalaran with mounts that have both a ground and flying speed without remounting.
  • If a player upgrades the riding skill while riding a mount that can scale to the new skill, it is applied instantly. For example, learning Expert Riding in Outland while riding a Ability mount celestialhorse [Celestial Steed] immediately enables flying without remounting.
  • Players will no longer get a letter in the mail from their riding trainer upon reaching the appropriate level to learn the next riding skill. The riding skill now displays in the "General" tab in the spell book and players are alerted to train riding just like other new abilities.


Dungeons

  • Though not displayed in the Dungeon Finder Interface Screen, completing a Random Lich King Heroic Dungeon using the Dungeon Finder will award 23 Justice Points, in addition to the 16 Justice Points earned for each boss killed.
  • Completing a weekly raid quest will be rewarded with 137 Justice Points.
  • After a hotfix, The Inv misc gem pearl 04 [Essence-Infused Moonstone] is no longer needed to summon Anzu; he will now always be present in Heroic Sethekk Halls.

Professions

  • Herbalism and Mining give XP. The higher level the char is, the lower the received XP will be. This uses rest XP so you will get double XP while you have sufficient rest stored up.
  • Tiffany Cartier no longer exchanges Titanium Powder for Dalaran Jewelcrafter's Tokens; you now turn them in at Timothy Jones via a repeatable quest.
  • Master Riding is available from Northrend Riding trainers at a cost of 5000g, allowing all flying mounts to scale to 310% speed. Characters that already had a 310% speed flying mount pre-4.0.1 are given this skill automatically and free of charge. Note that reputation discounts apply to the trainers in the Northrend starting areas!
  • Spell frost arcticwinds [Cold Weather Flying] is now available to all characters at level 68 for 500g.
  • Engineers can no longer build ammo (it is no longer used for ranged weapons).
  • Trade engineering [Flexweave Underlay], Trade engineering [Springy Arachnoweave], and Trade engineering [Nitro Boosts] no longer increase spell power, agility, and crit rating respectively, but can now be used alongside other enchants.
  • Leatherworking Specializations have been removed
  • Tailoring Specializations have been removed; specialty cloth is now always made in single units.
  • There is now just one kind and tier of Vellum. Old Weapon and Armor Vellums are converted to a Inv scroll 07 [Ruined Vellum], which can be used to create the new all-purpose Inv inscription armorscroll01 [Enchanting Vellum].
  • Alchemy Transmute cooldowns have been redesigned. Completing the transmute will now cause a cooldown that is fixed to reset at 00:00 server time, limiting you to one cooldown per day.
  • Many profession trainers in capitals now train professions up to Grand Master. Accounts without expansions will still be unable to access the professions associated with those expansions.
  • Enchant Shield - Lesser Block now grants 10 parry rating rather than 10 block rating due to the removal of block as a stat.
  • Enchant Bracer - Minor Deflection, Enchant Bracer - Lesser Deflection, Enchant Bracer - Deflection, and Enchant Bracer - Major Defense now grant dodge rating equal to the defense rating they previously gave due to the removal of defense as a stat (2, 3, 5, and 12 respectively).
  • Archaeology has been added to the UI, however there are no Archaeology trainers to teach it.

Items

  • Some former Guardian Elixirs are now Battle Elixirs.
  • The effect of most scrolls are now considered Battle Elixirs, and will overwrite existing Battle Elixirs. The effect of scrolls of stamina and protection are considered Guardian Elixirs.
  • Most books that formerly taught class spells are now poor-quality items with no function. Exceptions include Inv misc book 03 [Tome of Dalaran Brilliance] and Inv misc book 07 [Tome of Polymorph: Black Cat].
  • [Tome of Cold Weather Flight] has been removed.
  • Some glyph items have been replaced with Inv ammo firetar [Charred Glyph]s, non-functional, poor-quality items.
  • Some glyphs have been replaced or renamed.
  • All old Ammo is now poor quality and is useless. It can still be vendored.
  • Quivers, Ammo Pouches have been converted into regular bags. Most of them have fewer slots than they originally did. The bags can no longer be purchases from vendors or found as drops, but crafted quivers and ammo pouches can still be made as regular bags.
  • Soul Bags have been converted into regular bags. Most of them have fewer slots than they originally did.
  • Numerous item stat changes:
  • Wrathful Gladiator gear, with the exception of shoulders and T2 weapons and the tabard, can be purchased for honour, with no Battleground or Arena rating required (although the tooltip says that it is requires)
  • Inv misc gem 02 [Pristine Black Diamond] now has a sell price of 50s
  • Inv misc drum 07 [Drums of the Wild] have changed from a Spell nature giftofthewild [Gift of the Wild] buff to a health and mana regeneration buff.
  • [Cache of the Ley-Guardian] now contains 32 Justice Points instead of 2 Emblems of Triumph.
  • Relics now have stats rather than modifying certain class abilities.
  • Some relics now have sockets. (This includes old-world relics that predated the Jewelcrafting profession.)
  • Several changes were made to gems, mainly hit rating, intellect, and dodge rating moved to blue, red, and yellow (previously yellow, yellow, and red) respectively.
  • The gold cap has been increased to 1,000,000 gold.
  • The original [Elementium Ore] has been renamed to [Elementium Ingot], to make way for the new ore that will be added in 4.0.3.
  • The original [Elementium Bar] has been renamed to [Hardened Elementium Bar], to make way for the new bar that will be added in 4.0.3.
  • [MOLL-E] now binds when used.

Quests

  • The Horde and Alliance versions of the pre-Cataclysm event quest chain was added. Though initially disabled, it was made available November 1, 2010, starting with Earthen Ring emissaries in faction capitals.
  • If you must kill a mob or talk to an NPC, the name of the mob will be visible over their head regardless of user settings. User setting will return once quest is completed.
  • N [70] Spirits of Auchindoun no longer grants any bonus honor.
  • The N [70] Morthis Whisperwing quest chain for druid Ability druid flightform [Swift Flight Form] completely removed.
  • H [10] Cleanup on Isle E. has replaced H [10] Zalazane.
  • Some quests previously offered by Thrall are now offered by Garrosh Hellscream.
  • H [60] The Brokering of Peace is now tuned in to Shok Narnes rather than Thrall.
  • H [62] Messenger to Thrall and H [63] Envoy to the Mag'har have been removed.
  • Several quests in Nagrand have been reduced in order to complete, such as the Beast killing quests; and of course the poop quest too.
  • Quests directing newly-leveled characters to their riding trainer have been removed.
  • A [60] Arrows Are For Sissies and H [60] A Fair Trade have been removed.

Reputation

  • Gnomeregan faction has been renamed to Gnomeregan.
  • The most current factions are now listed at the top of the Reputation window. For example, a level 80 character in Northrend will have WotLK rep first, then BC, then Classic factions.

User interface

  • The World Map button has moved to the upper-right corner of the minimap rather than around the edge of it.
  • The Social button has been moved to the upper-left of the chat window.
  • On the Character Select Screen, characters now perform an attack animation appropriate to their class (spell casting or melee) every 30 seconds.
  • Character stats are on a separate display that must be revealed on the right of the character screen.
  • Buttons for popup windows (talents, PvP, dungeon finder, etc.) now display the level at which they become available.
  • The graphics settings window has been revamped.
  • Zone names displayed when moving between zones are now closer to the top of the screen.
  • On the border of the Minimap a yellow arrow points to the closest quest area. In the Objectives frame the number of that quest has a yellow (instead brown) background.
  • While dead a red arrow points in the direction of your corpse on the border of the Minimap.
  • While dead there is a return to Graveyard button at the top of user screen.
  • If quest items can be looted, they will be displayed with a yellow border in the loot window.[2]
  • You can now activate multiple tracking abilities including NPC and profession tracking (Class Trainer, Find Treasure, Track Humanoids, Find Minerals, etc.) simultaneously. The minimap uses appropriate icons to distinguish generic tracking (Class Trainer, Auctioneer, Mailbox, etc.). Dots displayed for other forms of tracking tracking are unchanged.
  • Mounts and companion pets have been moved to the spellbook.
  • Tooltips of mobs and objects displays quest progression of partymembers when in a party and the quest has been shared.
  • The character screen now displays the character's talent specialization if one exists.
  • The background behind the character on the character screen is now greyed.
  • New Guild UI and cap of 1000 members have been implemented.
  • If you unsheathe your weapons while dancing, they no longer get re-sheathed.
  • If you have FPS enabled, it is now displayed on the world map (in a different position than on the main interface)
  • AddOns can no longer get access to Real Names as the UI merely provides a UI Escape Sequence which is rendered as the correct name when displayed.
  • The Kalu'ak boat crew now have their voices follow them around when they speak.
  • Gryphons (the Alliance flight path type) now have their voice remain stationary.
  • All guards and NPC participants at the Tourney now frequently beat their mounts resulting in much noise.
  • Consolidate Buffs is now the default setting and has been turned on for you in your preferences. You can turn it back off of course.
  • A throttle has been added to all public chat channels, limiting players to two messages every few seconds. Players will receive an error message instructing them to wait before spamming sending additional chat in that channel. Other forms of chat (such as Say, Party, Yell, and Guild) remain unchanged.
  • Links can now be used in all chat channels.
  • Updated generic portraits are used for Night Elf, Gnome, and Troll party/raid members who are out of visual range.
  • The new raid frame interface allows players to select their role within the raid (the leader/assistants can also set it for them). An option Interface allows players to be grouped together by roles.
  • The new raid frame interface allows colored markers to be placed on the ground.
  • When placing a raid target icon on a target, a line will now be displayed in raid chat indicating who placed which icon on what target.
  • The "report problem" button is gone from the Help Request window. In its place is an informational page on Account Security. You can no longer report issues to the Game Masters without speaking with one unless you are offline when your ticket reaches the top of the queue.
  • GM responses now appear in the corner of the screen (replacing your open GM ticket), rather than in your mailbox. Game Masters may choose to leave a written response even when you are still online rather than open a conversation.
  • New loading screen tips have been added.
  • Having Beginner Tooltips turned on now modifies the description of low level spells to help new players learn when to use them, but replaces the number data with a generalized description (high, low, etc).
  • New loading screen tips have been added.
  • Selection circles for flying units now appear at their flying height rather than on the ground below them (which would disappear above a certain distance).
  • Talents which grant spells have a yellow border in the Talent frame.
  • Instant Quest Text has been removed from the interface menu. It is now turned on permanently.
  • The flight path map window is now larger.

Game Engine

  • PowerPC is no longer supported
  • It is now impossible for Windows 98 & Windows 2000 users to install World of Warcraft (unsupported since 3.0.2, however could still play on them)
    • It is officially "impossible" to install on Windows 2000, however there is a way to do it unofficially. (This has not been tested on Windows 98!) The game itself isn't incompatible with Windows 2000, just the Launcher requires a small piece of code that Windows 2000 lacks, so loading the game isn't a problem once you get past installation. http://www.techspot.com/vb/topic155005.html has walkthroughs on a few different ways to make it work with Windows 2000. The Wrapper DLL fix is the only one I have tested and succeeded in installing with.
  • The Launcher will now prevent you from accessing the login screen without an active Internet connection. It can still be accessed by bypassing the Launcher.
  • Cinematics are no longer included in the digital download. They can still be installed from the CDs/DVDs.

Graphics

  • There is no way to disable Full Screen Glow via the Video Options menu. This is a permanent change. You can disable this feature using an in-game console command and restarting the game \console ffxGlow 0[3]

World environment

General

  • The Elemental Unrest world event is in the game files. The invasion did not start concurrent with the patch download, but was activated November 1st 2010.
  • Earthquakes have increased in frequency as well as intensity, sometimes causing dust to fall from buildings. Horde and Alliance leaders are meeting to discuss the matter.

NPCs

Dun Morogh

Durotar

Nagrand

Orgrimmar

Stormwind City

  • Archbishop Benedictus has a new wardrobe, and is now level 80 elite (up from level 60 elite).
  • The Alliance leaders have gathered in the Stormwind Keep Throne Room, discussing the recent earthquakes.
  • Gavan Grayfeather, a Wildhammer shaman has been added to the Throne Room. He stands behind the Alliance leaders, listening.
    • Elemental Unrest phase 3 (November 12, 2010): Alliance leaders have moved back to their respective cities. Gavan Grayfeather now resides in Nagrand.

Thunder Bluff

Flight Paths

  • Most flight paths no longer go through as many locations.

Water

  • Flying mounts can land on water, and the character can dismount and re-mount again as long as they do not move.This may be a bug.

References

  1. ^ http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=27187850231&sid=1
  2. ^ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3K9kFgI4FqY&feature=player_embedded
  3. ^ http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=27188059429&sid=1
Table of patches
Test-inline 0.x – Pre-release
WoW Icon update 1.x – World of Warcraft
Bc icon 2.x – The Burning Crusade
Wrath-Logo-Small 3.x – Wrath of the Lich King
Cataclysm 4.x – Cataclysm
Mists of Pandaria 5.x – Mists of Pandaria
Warlords of Draenor 6.x – Warlords of Draenor
Legion 7.x – Legion
Battle for Azeroth 8.x – Battle for Azeroth
Shadowlands 9.x – Shadowlands
Dragonflight 10.x – Dragonflight
Icon-stub-48x48 Removed content
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