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World of Warcraft Release Date: A Journey Through Gaming History
World of Warcraft Release Date: A Journey Through Gaming History
Date of Release: November 23, 2004
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Platform: PC (initially)*
The moment marked a transformative milestone not just for Blizzard Entertainment, but for the entire gaming landscape — November 23, 2004, was the official release date of World of Warcraft (WoW). This eighth expansion to Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne redefined the MMORPG genre and captivated millions of players worldwide, establishing a legacy that continues to influence online gaming today.
Understanding the Context
The Road to Launch: A Decade in the Making
Blizzard’s journey to launching World of Warcraft began in the late 1990s, rooted in the success of the Warcraft franchise. After the critically acclaimed Warcraft II and Warcraft III, Blizzard aimed to create a seamless, expansive universe that combined deep gameplay, rich lore, and stunning visuals. The development of World of Warcraft took nearly five years, involving thousands of developers, artists, and designers.
By November 2004, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne had already built a fervent community. With World of Warcraft, Blizzard aimed to elevate the MMORPG experience by integrating intricate class systems, vast exploration, a dynamic in-game economy, and an ongoing narrative driven by regular content updates.
Why the November 23, 2004 Release Date Matters
Key Insights
The choice of November 23, 2004 was strategic. By launching in late autumn, Blizzard positioned WoW to capture players seeking immersive winter-themed content just after Halloween—themed lands like Icecrown Citadel and Ajak brought unique seasonal atmospheres that resonated with the season. This timing also aligned with the holiday shopping period, helping boost initial sales and media attention.
Moreover, releasing in an era before streaming platforms became dominant allowed WoW to cultivate a fervent 광역 커뮤니티 (deep, engaged community) fueled by forums, fan sites, and word-of-mouth—key forces behind the game’s unprecedented growth and longevity.
Legacy and Impact
Since its release, World of Warcraft has released multiple expansions, including Wrath of the Lich King (2005), Conquest of the Burning Crusade (2007), Mcycle of the Horde (2010), and * Shadowlands* (2022), each expanding the game’s lore and mechanics. With over 100 million registered accounts and millions still active players, World of Warcraft remains one of the most influential games in history.
The November 23, 2004 launch date symbolizes not just a game’s debut—it marks the beginning of a cultural phenomenon that reshaped expectations for massive, evolving online experiences.
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Final Thoughts
Today, the release date of World of Warcraft on November 23, 2004, stands as a pivotal moment in gaming history. It exemplifies how strategic timing, visionary design, and dedicated community building can create enduring digital worlds. Whether you’re a veteran player or new to the franchise, remembering this date connects fans to the roots of one of gaming’s most beloved and groundbreaking titles.
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