The Burning Legion stirs once more… and Azeroth’s heroes are being called back through the Dark Portal. Blizzard has officially announced that the WoW: Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary Edition Pre-Patch will arrive on January 13, marking the beginning of a new journey into Outland for Classic players—one included entirely with your WoW Subscription or Game Time.
This Anniversary Edition isn’t just a nostalgic return—it’s a celebration of one of World of Warcraft’s most iconic eras, enhanced and re-introduced for 2025/2026 players. The moment maintenance wraps up on January 13 in each region, every character will have a choice: advance to Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary, or transfer for free to a Classic Era realm for a limited time.
As the gateway to Outland creaks open once more, here’s everything waiting on the other side.
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A New Era Begins – Level 70, Faster Cadence, and New Adventures
The Anniversary Edition brings a full leveling increase to 70, a more modernized level curve, and many of the systems that defined TBC’s identity.
The Exiled world of Outland returns exactly as veterans remember it: Hellfire skies torn apart by fel flames, floating shards of Nagrand, alien forests, and crystalline Draenei temples. Heroes level 60 and above can once again unite against the Burning Legion and push back demonic forces threatening the fate of Azeroth.
This version is polished, faster, but still faithful—every zone, dungeon, and world PvP encounter carries the same atmosphere as it did all those years ago.
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Blood Elves & Draenei Join the Fight
Two iconic races return for the Anniversary Edition:
Blood Elves – “Remember the Sunwell”
Survivors of the Third War, the Blood Elves seek vengeance against the Legion that shattered their homeland. They bring unique racial abilities and unlock the long-awaited Horde Paladin class. Blood Elves can play Mage, Hunter, Rogue, Priest, Warlock, and Paladin.
Draenei – “Gifted Exiles of the Naaru”
Hunted across worlds by the Legion, Draenei crash-land on Azeroth and bolster the Alliance with powerful magic and otherworldly technology. They bring the Shaman class to the Alliance for the first time and receive bonuses to the newly introduced Jewelcrafting profession.
Both starting zones—Azuremyst Isle and Eversong Woods—are fully available during the Pre-Patch, letting players begin their adventures before ever stepping into the Dark Portal.
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Karazhan, Gruul, Magtheridon – Raids That Defined a Generation
Three legendary raids will be part of the Anniversary Edition launch content:
Karazhan
Medivh’s haunted tower, arguably one of WoW’s most beloved raids. Ghostly nobles, enchanted operas, and the secrets of the Last Guardian await brave adventurers.
Gruul’s Lair
Home of the colossal Gruul the Dragonkiller. His clan terrorizes the Blade’s Edge Mountains, and his crushing blows are feared by all.
Magtheridon’s Lair
Once the ruler of Outland, now imprisoned beneath Hellfire Citadel. Magtheridon’s desperate roars echo through caverns as he gathers strength to break free again.
These raids are carefully tuned to feel challenging without deviating from their original roots.
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PvP Arena Season 1 – A New Battleground for Glory
TBC’s most competitive feature returns exactly as old-school gladiators remember it.
Season 1 brings:
- Nagrand Arena
- Blade’s Edge Arena
- Ruins of Lordaeron
Climb the ladder with your team to earn gear, titles, mounts, and bragging rights. No Honor ranking system—pure Arena competition.
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Take Flight – Flying Mounts Return
One of the most transformative features in WoW’s history makes its comeback: flying in Outland.
From the storm-wracked cliffs of Blade’s Edge to the floating islands of Netherstorm, the skies are finally yours again.
Unlock your flying skill at level 70 and soar into zones previously unreachable on foot.
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A New Profession: Jewelcrafting
Jewelcrafting debuts with the Anniversary Edition, letting players craft powerful rings, trinkets, necklaces, statues, and—most importantly—gems that slot directly into gear.
Master Jewelcrafting trainers:
- Horde: Kalaen – Thrallmar
- Alliance: Tatiana – Honor Hold
Draenei receive a passive bonus that helps them excel naturally at this profession.
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Guild Banks – Right From Launch
Unlike the original Burning Crusade Classic, Anniversary players get Guild Banks immediately.
Eight upgradeable tabs, 98 slots each, gold storage, customizable permissions—everything your guild needs to stay organized for progression night.
No more bag-mailing items across officers or drowning in alt banks.
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Free Transfers Back to Classic Era (Limited Time)
Players who prefer to remain in Classic instead of crossing into Outland will have free character transfers from Anniversary realms to Classic Era realms beginning November 25, ending January 12, 2026.
After that date, all remaining Anniversary characters will automatically progress into Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary.
If you want to stay in pure Classic… now is the time to decide.
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The Dark Portal Awaits
The fate of Outland hangs in the balance once again. Whether you’re returning to relive unforgettable memories or experiencing Burning Crusade for the first time, the Anniversary Edition is bringing one of WoW’s most iconic adventures back to life—polished, faithful, and ready for 2026.
Sharpen your blades, prepare your spellbooks, and gather your guild.
On January 13, the journey begins.
Outland is calling.
