Earlier this year, fans were disappointed to hear that World of Warcraft: Shadowlands was being delayed past its original October launch date. While the announcement was a big setback, players have been enjoying the pre-patch these last 2 weeks which brought the level squish, class changes, and Timewalking campaigns for alts. Although most of the community was prepared to wait until the end of 2020, Blizzard stated this morning that the new release date is now November 23rd.

Previously, Blizzard explained their decision was due to feedback from many beta testers in the community. Even though the story and leveling experience through each of Shadowlands' main zones was good, the various covenant systems remained complicated and frustrating despite change after change. Furthermore, The Maw, which is locked until max level, remained as barren and lifeless as described in lore despite being the endgame zone. Thankfully, those flaws have now been fixed and the roadmap to Shadowlands' release is now fully laid out.

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On November 10th, the Scourge Invasion will finally commence as the effects of Sylvanas destroying the Lich King's helm take effect across Azeroth. Players will have 2 weeks to stem the encroaching tide of undead and fight their way through resurrected Wrath of the Lich King bosses at Icecrown before stepping foot into Shadowlands.

Afterwards, heroes get 15 days to gear up and prepare for the first raid on December 8th, Castle Nathria. Inside this Dracula-inspired castle, Azeroth's greatest champions will do battle against Sire Denathrius and his Venthyr minions who have darker motives than just keeping Revendreth running smoothly. Shadowlands' Season 1 will also begin on the same date for players who didn't get enough PvP action during Battle for Azeroth.

While players keeping up with recent lore understand the cosmic stakes with this expansion, Blizzard has also released a short story trailer showing how messed up things have become and previewing the fates of certain Warcraft characters. With the Jailer and his allies narrating how they intend to destroy the cycle of life and death, this is an adventure where players may see some important lore figures make the ultimate sacrifice.

With less than a month left, Shadowlands is nearly upon World of Warcraft players after being announced 1 year ago at Blizzcon 2019. Whether or not it lives up to the hype remains to be seen, but fans don't have to wait too much longer to find out.

World of Warcraft: Shadowlands launches globally on November 23 for PC.

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Source: Blizzard