World of Warcraft: Forever won't destroy what made the old classes so satisfying by modernizing them into oblivion: 'The level of mechanical complexity found in
Blizzard’s *World of Warcraft: Forever* aims to preserve the slower, methodical combat and simpler class mechanics of classic *WoW*, avoiding modern button-mashing complexity while introducing subtle rule-bending items.
*World of Warcraft: Forever* reintroduces slower, more deliberate combat compared to the modern *WoW*, where players spend extended time on abilities like a 38-second scorpion fight. Classes retain straightforward designs with small, learnable quirks, such as melee fighters weaving abilities between auto-attacks to optimize damage over longer battles. Blizzard developers confirmed to *TechRadar* their intent to prioritize simpler classes with engaging depth while adhering to the original MMO’s pacing and tone.
*Forever*’s combat pace deliberately avoids the rapid, ability-spamming style of contemporary *WoW*, ensuring players rely on timing and strategy rather than sheer button-pressing speed. The game’s class abilities remain limited, preventing overwhelming UI complexity where players might need infographics to navigate their skill bars. Blizzard’s approach suggests no plans to artificially accelerate combat or artificially bolster classes by adding new abilities to compensate for weaknesses.
Dungeons and raids in *Forever* will mirror this methodical design, with encounter challenges rooted in preparation through gear, consumables, and team composition rather than encounter complexity. While this may not appeal to players nostalgic for pre-raid farming, it offers a distinct experience for those seeking a more deliberate challenge. The game’s slower pace also creates space for creative item designs, such as a sword for mages that deals bonus fire damage on frozen targets, enabling new playstyles absent in classic *WoW*.
Blizzard’s goal with *Forever* is to encourage incremental, "horizontal" progression by introducing items that subtly alter class rules without overhauling core mechanics. Players may find new ways to customize characters through these items, potentially driving engagement with secondary characters. The beta has already showcased how such mechanics can expand class flexibility while maintaining the game’s original design philosophy.