Last week, I had World of Warcraft back on my mind. World of Warcraft Forever is now live and has welcomed those looking to experience the original game through a different lens, a different vision, and a different philosophy. It could become another home for those who haven't played the MMORPG in over a decade, or be the next generation of WoW players that would lead the community. WoW is a game I had accepted leaving in the past, but Forever caught my attention. With over 24 hours spent in the game so far, I'm reminded why this game is so special, and friends have solidified my return. Here are some thoughts.
My Little Adventure in My Own Terms, With Friends
The real pull for me wasn't what was changed or how Blizzard plans to update the game in the future as this is World of Warcraft Classic with a twist. The real excitement came from reconnecting with friends I haven't played with in years. Friends I used to play with every day who have remained connected through online communities and social media. We messaged each other, kept ourselves updated on our lives, and shared memes on a daily basis, but we never really made the effort to plan and play a game together just like the good days... until now.
Last month, three of my friends in that chat group were overly excited. These are friends I've played with for years, and quite honestly, would take a bullet if need be. Ever since I started playing WoW when The Burning Crusade expansion came out, I was progressing with them, and we had a blast. I officially retired from the MMORPG when the Cataclysm expansion released, but my friends continued playing on and off for years, constantly nudging me to return.
For Forever, this felt different. Having all three of them collectively planning and getting ready for the game's launch on November 4 felt like the right opportunity for me to get back into it. When I said I was coming back, it was on. Ever since the servers went live, all four of us have been playing every day at reasonable hours, as we're now adults with responsibilities.
But that's the power of World of Warcraft Forever. It has probably reconnected thousands of players and rekindled friendships that have been put on pause for years. Even those who may have left gaming entirely or haven't touched an MMO since walking away are finding a reason to return, as this version of the MMORPG has already recorded the highest number of returning players in WoW history. They wanted to experience the game again together, with a clean slate and a version that feels familiar but different enough to let exploration and excitement drive those late-night sessions.
It felt great on its first day. No issues or server woes, as Blizzard actually came into this launch prepared for once. It wasn't another Diablo 3 fiasco or a terrible WoW expansion launch that crippled player progression with rubber-banding and disconnects. I joined the moment the servers went live and saw the starting areas filled with players at level 1. We were all off to the races, beginning another WoW journey on our own terms.
I Really Am Back in Azeroth
It's a weird feeling being back, as it felt like I was right back in the saddle. Everything felt comfortable. I adjusted my keybindings, organized my UI, and familiarized myself with my surroundings as I played a class I've never piloted before.
I went on an adventure as the new elf race with its new starting area, and despite seeing new content, it felt like making amends with a dear friend you haven't seen since you last butted heads. The pros and cons remain the same: long walks, satisfying progression, and a social experience only MMOs like WoW can deliver. The visual upgrades and improvements are slowly pulling me back in, and if I'm not careful, I might just find myself logging in regularly over the next six months.
How was your weekend?
Respawn Monday #18: Onimusha: Way of the Sword is GOTY Materials
Respawn Monday #19: RuneScape Dragonwilds isn’t Blowing Me Away
Respawn Monday #20: Dragon’s Dogma 2 is Feeling Good in 2026
Respawn Monday #21: Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a Much Better Game Even Without Dark Arisen
About the Author - Carlos Hernandez
Carlos Hernandez is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Too Much Gaming, where he writes about video games, reviews, and industry news. A lifelong gamer, he would do anything to experience Final Fantasy Tactics for the first time again and has a love/hate relationship with games that require hunting for new gear to improve your character.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve delivers an incredible single-player campaign, thrilling dogfights, and a phenomenal soundtrack, despite its underwhelming multiplayer.