Blizzard Confirms World Of Warcraft Expansion

Vivendi Universal Games-owned Blizzard Entertainment, developer of leading Western PC MMO World Of Warcraft, has officially announced an expansion for the game, World Of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade, at its Blizzcon event in Anaheim, California. The firm, which recently announced more than 3.5 million global customers, including around 2 million Western subscribers to World Of WarCraft, will expand the game to include an increase in the level cap to 70 from 60, two new playable races (the Blood Elves, and an as-yet unannounced race), an entirely new continent known as the Outlands, new dungeons and battlegrounds, plus new flying mounts, items, quests, and crafting styles. Regarding how those playing a non-expanded World Of Warcraft will interact with those who do have the expansion, the game's official FAQ explains: "There will be many aspects of the expansion that are available to all players. However, in order to experience certain content, such as the Outlands, or be able to play as one of the new races, players will have to purchase the expansion." The release date and price for the expansion are yet to be revealed, although Blizzard has assured consumers that: "We will make every effort to release the expansion simultaneously worldwide." The company also addresses the possible ESRB rating for the game, noting: "World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade has not yet been rated by the ESRB. However, we expect that it will receive the same rating that the original World of Warcraft received - 'Teen.'"