Blizzard Entertainment has officially revealed World of Warcraft Forever, a new iteration of the enduring MMO that aims to provide a permanent classic experience. The project, previously known by the community as 'WoW Classic Plus,' was announced at BlizzCon 2026.
According to Holly Longdale, executive producer and vice president for World of Warcraft, World of Warcraft Forever is designed to be "friendly, familiar, and new." The focus will be on the game world itself as the primary element, fostering a sense of community and preserving that environment. Longdale described the experience as being "easy to get into and play, and deep enough to stay forever," emphasizing the journey over the destination.
World of Warcraft Forever is envisioned as existing within a "time bubble" set during the first year of the original 2004 World of Warcraft. While it maintains the original level cap of 60, Blizzard plans to introduce new content that adheres to the design philosophy and rules of this era. This new content includes three new zones, multiple overhauled existing zones, over 1,000 new quests, a new PvP Battleground called Darkspear Islands, nine new dungeons, new professions and reputations, updated world visuals, and two new raids for 10 and 20 players at max level. Additionally, a new playable race, the Skyborne Elves, will be introduced, with their home located in one of the new zones. Blizzard stated that this new content is being developed to offer fresh experiences for players across the entire level 1-60 bracket.
The announcement comes as Blizzard continues to evolve World of Warcraft, with its latest expansion, Midnight, set to receive an update titled Eclipse. While many players have remained with the game through its many expansions and updates since its 2004 launch, a significant portion of the community has expressed a desire for the simpler gameplay of WoW's early days. World of Warcraft Classic, released in 2019, offered a taste of this, but subsequent Classic versions have progressed through expansions. World of Warcraft Forever appears to be Blizzard's definitive answer for those seeking a permanent return to the game's roots.
Players can already experience World of Warcraft Forever on the BlizzCon 2026 show floor. A beta test is scheduled to begin on September 17, with the full launch planned for November 4.