World of Warcraft has always showcased a diverse array of landscapes, from the sun-baked sands to the lush, verdant forests. Yet, some of its most captivating areas are those teeming with life, like Suramar or Tiragarde Sound. Now, with the first major patch for The War Within expansion, players are introduced to another bustling locale: Undermine. This goblin capital is a sprawling urban hub, unlike anything previously seen on Azeroth.
This past Thursday, Blizzard dropped an exciting video highlighting what players can anticipate in Undermine. It’s no secret that goblins have been somewhat overlooked in World of Warcraft, often playing the role of the Horde’s quirky comic relief since their debut in 2010’s Cataclysm. Their initial starting area boasted modern elements like cars, highways, and even personal assistants, but it was all obliterated when Deathwing rose.
In this new patch, smartly titled Undermined, some goblin factions, who were once foes in earlier editions, now seek to ally with the heroes of Azeroth. They’re willing to let bygones be bygones, so if you’ve found yourself getting into scrapes with Booty Bay guards or upsetting the Blackwater cartel, fear not—Baron Revilgaz won’t hold a grudge.
This update brings an innovative concept where players can get their hands on a car, which can be improved by working alongside goblin cartels. Accompanying these goblin rides is the D.R.I.V.E. (Dynamic Revolutionary Improvements to Vehicular Experiences) mechanic. These vehicles aren’t just for show—they’re quicker than traditional mounts on the ground and even pick up a bit more speed than flying mounts. If you’ve ever wished for some epic drifting moments in World of Warcraft, this patch delivers in spades.
Undermined also offers players fresh adventures in the form of new Delves (one is teeming with eerie Void constructs), a novel Arena, and a dungeon cleverly named Operation Floodgate. Raiders will be thrilled with the Liberation of Undermine, a raid featuring eight bosses. In a long-awaited showdown, players take on Gallywix, the greedy goblin who double-crossed his people back in Cataclysm and somehow maneuvered himself into power. True to his nature, Gallywix awaits you inside a massive mech designed as a caricature of himself.
While Blizzard remains tight-lipped about when exactly we’ll get to dive into Undermined, it’s definitely shaping up to be a fascinating addition to The War Within’s offering of zones. The goblins’ antics promise to weave seamlessly into the larger narrative involving Xal’atath, presenting some intriguing mysteries to unravel.