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For current expansion progression, choose modern World of Warcraft; for an earlier ruleset or a different kind of challenge, choose the Classic version that matches what you want to play. Blizzard identifies Windows and macOS as supported computer platforms and requires a keyboard and mouse. One subscription provides access to modern WoW and WoW Classic, but the current expansion, Midnight, is an additional purchase.
Start with your computer and access needs
Blizzard lists Windows and macOS as supported platforms for World of Warcraft and specifies that keyboard and mouse are required. Check Blizzard’s current game information and its system requirements for your particular computer before downloading. The available official information does not establish a reliable PC-versus-Mac performance comparison.
Blizzard’s subscription information says one subscription gives access to World of Warcraft and WoW Classic. For modern WoW, past expansions are included with the subscription, while the latest named expansion, Midnight, requires an additional purchase. Classic versions are available with a WoW subscription or game time. Regional prices and bundles can vary, so check the current Battle.net shop for your location.
Choose the version that matches your play style
| Version | Best fit | What sets it apart |
|---|---|---|
| Modern World of Warcraft | Current expansion progression and contemporary content | Subscription access includes past expansions; Midnight is the latest named expansion and is an additional purchase. Blizzard product information |
| Classic Era | A fresh start in original-style Azeroth | A reset content timeline and clean-slate economy. Blizzard Classic information |
| Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary Edition | Outland-era content and features | Blood Elves and Draenei are playable, and flying mounts open remote regions of Outland. Blizzard Classic information |
| Mists of Pandaria Classic | Returning to Pandaria | Blizzard describes this version as a return to the lands of Pandaria. Blizzard Classic information |
| Season of Discovery | Experimenting with Classic-style play | Runes add abilities not available in ordinary WoW Classic and allow unusual class roles. Blizzard Season of Discovery information |
| Classic Hardcore | A high-stakes survival challenge | Characters have one life; Spirit Healers do not resurrect them after death. Access is included with an active subscription. Blizzard Hardcore information |
What to expect from the Classic options
Classic Era: a clean-slate economy
Choose Classic Era if the appeal is a fresh start in original-style Azeroth, with a reset content timeline and clean-slate economy. It is distinct from the expansion-era and experimental Classic options.
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#1 Best Overall
Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary Edition: Outland and its features
This is the fit for players seeking Outland, the Blood Elf and Draenei playable races, and flying mounts that open access to remote regions. Confirm the current regional Battle.net listing before buying, since edition availability and naming can change.
Mists of Pandaria Classic: a return to Pandaria
Choose this version if you specifically want to revisit Pandaria. Blizzard’s description centers on returning to that setting; the available product information does not establish additional comparative details here.
Rank #2
![Blizzard Entertainment - Wolrd of Warcraft 60 Days of Game Time [eGift Card] - $29.99](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41QpeBx10wL._SL160_.jpg)
- Azeroth Awaits! Join millions of players and enter a world of myth, magic, and endless adventure.
- With a single game time purchase you can access World of Warcraft and WoW Classic, including 20th Anniversary Edition, Cataclysm Classic, Season of Discovery, and Hardcore Realms.
- Embark on your epic adventure in Azeroth for 60 days with this pre-paid game timecard.
- Simply enter your code at battle.net/code then assign this game time to any new or existing World of Warcraft account to keep the adventures going. No game purchase required.
- Includes access to World of Warcraft and WOW Classic. The most recent modern WOW expansion is sold separately.
Season of Discovery: altered class possibilities
Season of Discovery keeps a Classic framework but uses runes to add abilities absent from ordinary WoW Classic. Those abilities can enable unusual class roles, making it the experimental choice rather than a straight revisit to a prior ruleset.
Classic Hardcore: permanent stakes for each life
Hardcore is for players who want character survival to carry serious consequences. Blizzard describes it as a one-life mode: a Spirit Healer will not return a dead character to play.
Rank #3
- Master the Path of the Monk - Learn the mystic powers of the Monk, World of Warcraft's newest playable class. Destroy foes with the Windwalker's devastating attacks, replenish allies with the Mistweaver's spiritual energies, and shrug off enormous damage with the Brewmaster's unyielding strength.
- Battle to level 90 - Ascend to new heights of power as you explore the verdant reaches of the Jade Forest, war with the terrible Yaungol on Kun-Lai Summit, and unlock the secrets of the Mogu'shan Vaults.
- Unleash the Mighty Pandaren - Set out as a member of the enigmatic Pandaren -- World of Warcraft's first neutral race -- and join the ranks of either the Horde or Alliance as you enter the conflict brewing on Pandaria's shores.
- Discover a Lost Continent - Explore the ancient kingdoms of Pandaria and mount your defense against a newly awakened evil stirring in the continent's dark corners.
Keep character progress expectations realistic
Classic is a family of distinct game versions, not one uniform ruleset. Blizzard says Classic character progress stays on its own iteration rather than transferring to another version. Choose the specific mode you want to continue playing, rather than expecting a character to carry over between Classic iterations.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Join Illidan's immortal army
- Wield a mythic weapon
- Battle to level 110
- Boost to Level 100 instantly
A quick decision path
- Check compatibility: Confirm that your computer runs Windows or macOS, that you have a keyboard and mouse, and that your device meets Blizzard’s current system requirements.
- Decide whether you want current progression: If you want the current modern game, start with modern World of Warcraft. The subscription includes past expansions; Midnight is an additional purchase.
- If you want Classic, pick the specific experience: Choose Classic Era for a clean start, Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary Edition for Outland-era features, Mists of Pandaria Classic to revisit Pandaria, Season of Discovery for rune-driven experimentation, or Hardcore for one-life stakes.
- Verify what is currently offered in your region: Check Battle.net for the live version names, availability, and local purchase terms before committing.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
