World of Warcraft "Classic Plus": Is a New Version on the Horizon?
Mark RosewaterHead designer for "Magic: The Gathering" and author of long-running insights on game design.
For some time now, players of World of Warcraft Classic have expressed a desire for an evolved version of the veteran massively multiplayer online game. This hypothetical "WoW Classic Plus" would forge its own development path, distinct from the original title's update schedule, much like the popular Old School Runescape. The idea is to infuse a contemporary design philosophy into the beloved older game.
Amidst a quiet period for major WoW Classic announcements, those hoping for a "Classic Plus" believe their patience may soon be rewarded. Blizzard recently extended invitations to several well-known WoW Classic content creators for a confidential gathering in California. The details of this event remain under wraps due to non-disclosure agreements, but the unprecedented nature of these invitations has been interpreted as a strong indicator that Blizzard is indeed conceptualizing a new, innovative project rather than simply re-releasing an existing expansion. A notable streamer, Xaryu, inadvertently hinted at the upcoming visit on a Twitch broadcast, igniting excitement among his viewers regarding the potential for "Classic Plus."
The choice to specifically engage streamers primarily focused on WoW Classic, such as Sodapoppin and Esfand, lends further credibility to these theories. This targeted outreach suggests that the forthcoming announcement goes beyond a simple preview of another expansion. While Blizzard has not officially confirmed a "WoW Classic Plus," there have been previous indications of their interest in broadening the scope of WoW Classic. Chinese players currently enjoy a unique version of the game featuring re-imagined old raids, with no apparent end date. Furthermore, a 2025 year-end review included subtle allusions to the development team's efforts on the "long-term future of WoW Classic," accompanied by suggestive "plus signs." It's conceivable that the success of "Season of Discovery," which experimented with rule-bending gameplay elements like healing mages and tanking warlocks, might have spurred Blizzard to seriously consider a more permanent "Classic Plus" initiative. Given the strong sense of nostalgia and the positive reception to variations like "WoW Remix" and "Season of Discovery," the introduction of a "WoW Classic Plus," whether temporary or enduring, appears to be a natural progression. With BlizzCon scheduled for September, it presents an ideal platform for teasing this reimagined version of the game.
The potential arrival of a "Classic Plus" iteration of World of Warcraft signifies an exciting new chapter for both veteran enthusiasts and newcomers. It represents a commitment to innovation while honoring the game's rich legacy, ensuring that the spirit of adventure and discovery continues to thrive in the ever-evolving world of Azeroth.

