World Of Warcraft: Dragonflight interview – ‘Cross-faction is not something that we would do lightly’

metro.co.uk:

The new World Of Warcraft expansion has been unveiled and it brings not just dragons but the chance for cross-faction cooperation.

After several expansions centred around cataclysmic, world-changing events, that have torn Azeroth apart, World Of Warcraft’s latest expansion, Dragonflight, has a different vision for the venerable MMO. Set in a high-fantasy land filled with dragons, centaurs, tuskars, and ‘crazy magic’, this expansion aims to return to the roots of Azeroth and the classic components associated with World Of Warcraft’s legacy.

Instead of throwing players straight into another apocalyptic battle, Dragonflight’s focus will instead be on deep exploration and adventure. The expansion hopes to emulate the ‘classic experience’ of World Of Warcraft, while adding dragons and new, modernised features.

Dragons have long existed in the World Of Warcraft franchise but Dragonflight is the first expansion to place these colossal creatures at its centre, as players journey into the secretive Dragon Isles. These mystical isles have been hidden away for 10,000 years and offer players a ‘renewed vision’ of how the creatures exist within the world of Azeroth.

Players will have an opportunity to create their own dragon character, thanks to the new Dracthyr race. And if you are unsure about being stuck within the body of a winged, scaley reptile, you will be pleased to know that your draconic body has a humanoid form too, also with ample amounts of customisation.

Senior game designer Jackie Wiley considers Warcraft dragons to be ‘unique’ and the pinnacle of high fantasy. ‘World Of Warcraft dragons are such a special take,’ she told me. ‘As fantasy nerds, they are one of those cultures that everyone is excited to work on. I mean, who