Best World of Warcraft for Beginners: Is It Worth Playing?

Choosing the right version of World of Warcraft (WoW) to start your journey as a beginner can be overwhelming. With multiple iterations and expansions available, it’s important to select a version that suits your playstyle and experience level. In this article, we’ll explore the best version for beginners and whether it’s worth investing time and resources into the game.

Why the Best Version Varies

World of Warcraft has undergone several significant updates and expansions, each with its unique features and community. Some versions may offer a more streamlined and accessible experience, while others come with challenges and rewards that cater to more experienced players. Let’s break down the reasons why the best version for a beginner can vary.

The Current Best Option: Shadowlands

Shadowlands is currently the best option for beginners due to its condensed 1-60 experience, which enhances the learning curve and makes the initial stages of the game more manageable. This expansion was designed with newer players in mind, offering both tutorial support and streamlined content to keep you engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Compared to other versions, it provides a smoother entry point into the game's vast world.

Why Is Shadowlands Recommended?

Condensed Content: The content up to level 60 is more streamlined, making it easier to complete quests and gain experience. Better Balance: Monolith and Blizzard have worked to balance the game, making various class and spec combinations more viable and enjoyable for beginners. Tutorial Support: The game provides more comprehensive and engaging tutorials to help you get started, ensuring a more enjoyable initial experience.

Should You Wait for Shadowlands?

Retail WoW (Wrath of the Lich King or Crisis) can be a viable option if you’re willing to wait for Shadowlands to release. Here are some points to consider:

Wait List Access: If you join the wait list for Shadowlands, you’ll get early access to the game as soon as it’s available. Free Trial: Retail WoW offers a free trial that lets you play until level 20, giving you a taste of the game without a full commitment. Community and Content: The community and content are more robust and varied, which can be appealing to those who prefer a vibrant and active gameplay environment.

When to Avoid Retail WoW Classic

World of Warcraft Classic can be a challenging experience for beginners unless you have a full group of people playing. Here’s why:

Difficult Gameplay: The game is not streamlined and can be brutal, requiring a high level of coordination and skill to progress. Lack of Group Support: Without a complete "holy trinity" (tank, healer, DPS), the game becomes significantly harder and less enjoyable. Fewer Tutorials: The lack of comprehensive tutorials can make the learning curve steeper for beginners.

Conclusion

In summary, the best version of World of Warcraft for beginners is currently Shadowlands. Its condensed experience and balanced content make it a more accessible and enjoyable starting point. If waiting for Shadowlands is not an option, the free trial in Retail WoW or playing with a full group in Classic WoW can still be worthwhile. Just ensure you choose the right version to make the most of your gaming experience.