World of Warcraft: The War Within early access starts tomorrow

Johanna Faries, President of Blizzard Entertainment, took the stage at Gamescom's Opening Night Live to celebrate 30 years of the Warcraft franchise, highlighting the upcoming Early Access release of World of Warcraft: The War Within, the MMORPG's latest expansion. According to Blizzard, The War Within is the most meaningful expansion for the famed MMORPG, both in terms of content and narrative. The War Within will kick off the Worldsoul Saga, which will span three expansions for World of Warcraft.

Blizzard has been sharing new animated videos to prepare players for this new storyline, with the most recent focusing on Alleria Windrunner, an elven ranger from Silvermoon who devoted herself to the war between the Alliance and Horde. The animation reveals how Alleria absorbed the power of the shadows and became the first Void Elf.

"This is an incredible moment for Blizzard: our teams are launching World of Warcraft: The War Within in just a few days during this massive year of Warcraft milestones, expanding the world of Sanctuary in October with Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred, and are continuing to deliver inspired new content and collaborations in Overwatch 2," said Johanna Faries, President of Blizzard Entertainment. "We are thrilled to be representing the work of so many of our colleagues, and to be celebrating here at Gamescom alongside our amazing communities."

World of Warcraft: The War Within Global Launch set for August 26

The global launch of World of Warcraft: The War Within is set for August 26, with Early Access beginning on August 22 at 3 PM PDT/August 23 at midnight CET for those who pre-purchase the Epic Edition. The expansion introduces a new titan-forged race called the Earthen, playable by both the Horde and the Alliance once unlocked. All classes will gain Hero Talents, an evergreen progression system that unlocks new powers and class fantasies. The War Within also brings a new PvP mode set in the mines of Deephaul Ravine in the Ringing Deeps. Additionally, players can explore new zones and instanced areas spread across the new region of Khaz Algar. World of Warcraft: Dragonflight pleased both critics and players, and Blizzard hopes that The War Within does the same.

Blizzard also shared new information about the MMORPG's future. The first Warcraft Direct will take place later this year, where teams will provide more details about upcoming content. At the end of October, various in-game events will be held to celebrate the 20th anniversary of World of Warcraft, allowing players to explore the history of Azeroth while earning rewards.

World of Warcraft: The War Within launches globally on August 26, with Early Access on August 22. The War Within is being touted as the biggest expansion in the game's 20-year history, so if you don't want to miss out on the experience, keep an eye on our price comparator for the cheapest CD Keys for World of Warcraft: The War Within and gear up for new adventures in Azeroth.