Recently, I had the privilege of catching up with one of the leading minds behind Undermine(d), the latest expansion for World of Warcraft. This fresh content drop introduces us to a new city brimming with energy unlike anything we’ve encountered in Azeroth before. It’s a place where speedy hot rods zip through the streets, challenging players to embrace a new kind of adventure.
Picture this: it’s like New York infused with a steampunk atmosphere where safety takes a backseat to thrill. This is the vibe you’ll get when stepping into Undermine, the brand-new zone that launched this week in WoW. As part of the design crew for this vibrant zone, alongside my fantastic colleagues, I’m excited to dive into the details of this unprecedented goblin city and its cutting-edge vehicles.
### Rev It Up: Welcome to D.R.I.V.E.
To jazz up the World of Warcraft universe, we’ve rolled out the D.R.I.V.E. feature, which stands for Dynamic and Revolutionary Improvement to Vehicular Experiences. A mouthful, yes, but fitting for the innovation it brings. This system grants players the chance to cruise over ground in style with the G-99 Breakneck, an in-game twist on the traditional hot rod. Eager to take command of these wheels? Start by completing the “Eyes from Above” mission in the main storyline, follow through with “No More Walkin’ Here,” and master the Breakneck’s tutorial.
The creation of these vehicles was heavily inspired by the goblin aesthetic in World of Warcraft. Known for their ingenious yet haphazard creations, goblin designs come through vividly in the G-99 Breakneck, featuring dramatic flourishes like flames shooting out spectacularly—a perfect ride for the hectic avenues of Undermine.
One feature we were adamant about implementing was drifting, a nod to classic racing games. Transitioning this mechanic into the World of Warcraft setting presented its challenges but stirred an eager enthusiasm among the team. Our ambition was to evoke that exhilarating sense of freedom and mastery, akin to when one first experiences the independence a new car provides.
The Breakneck isn’t just transportation; it’s a shared experience, allowing your pals to hop in and explore Undermine together. Engage in races, tackling standard or alternate routes. For players who may find the speed overwhelming, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with options to dial down the speed or use traditional ground mounts instead.
### The Vibrant Streets Await
Driving wouldn’t be half as fun without somewhere intriguing to zoom around. Undermine becomes a lively stage where races blaze past, setting an inviting backdrop to join the fray. Take on activities like delivering hot towels or fighting off a spectral tiger haunting kids, making you feel intrinsically woven into the city’s tapestry.
As you navigate through screaming city streets and the subterranean fight club sewers, you’ll encounter pirates, gangsters, ambitious chefs, and characters eager to break a leg with you—sometimes literally. Every corner of Undermine crackles with life, offering a mix of danger and discovery at every turn.
Underneath its manufactured sky, Undermine thrives with a bustling goblin community. This zone deviates from the typical WoW locations, presenting a densely inhabited metropolis where daily life buzzes with activity. Slam Central Station provides a testament to goblin ambition, moving players to wherever their hearts desire, amidst cleverly titled landmarks like the Incontinental Hotel and the Gallagio.
The overarching narrative within Undermine encourages personal growth and societal progress. It connects seamlessly with The War Within’s larger story arc, inviting you to follow characters like Orweyna through their journeys in the Ringing Deeps. Familiar faces, such as Renzik and Gazlowe, unfold the rich history and diverse lives of those residing in Undermine. While Gazlowe once sought a change, many remain tied to the city’s tether, highlighting a poignant notion of homebound identity.
Throughout the unfolding tale, Gazlowe’s evolving spirit sparks a movement to overthrow oppressive rulers, empowering players to take a stand and reclaim justice for Undermine’s citizens. It’s a dynamic story of resistance and collective strength.
So, gear up—Undermine is a realm of swift wheels and shadowy dealings, where every drift counts. Whether it’s an inch or a mile, drifting’s drifting! Begin your adventure now with the Undermine(d) update, live on World of Warcraft, accessible on PC via Battle.net. For more updates, head over to WorldOfWarcraft.com.
