World of WarcraftPoradnik

WoW Retail vs Classic vs Forever: which version should you play?

World of Warcraft now has three paths. Here is how they differ so you can choose without wasting a month of subscription.

Zaktualizowano 2026-10-09 · 3 min czytania

WoW

One subscription opens several versions of WoW. They feel very different. Modern WoW (also called Retail) is fast and full of systems. Classic is slower and more social. Forever, launching November 4, 2026, is a new take on the 1 to 60 journey. Details were checked on October 9, 2026.

Key takeaways

  • Retail: Midnight, level cap 90, housing, Delves, many solo options.
  • Classic: older expansions with slower leveling and bigger group focus.
  • Forever: levels 1 to 60, new content, no flying, no planned level cap increases.
  • A single subscription covers modern WoW and Classic. Forever is included with Game Time or a subscription.
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Side by side

TopicRetail (Midnight)Classic versionsForever
Level cap90Depends on version60
Free trialUp to level 20No trialNo trial reported
PaceFast, guidedSlower, group-basedClassic-style journey with new content
FlyingYesDepends on eraNo flying mounts
Extra costLatest expansionNone beyond subOptional packs

Which Classic version?

Blizzard currently lists these Classic options:

  • Classic Era: the original game from before the Dark Portal opened.
  • Classic Hardcore: permadeath. A dead character cannot restart from level 1.
  • Burning Crusade Classic Anniversary: Outland, Blood Elves, Draenei and flying mounts.
  • Mists of Pandaria Classic: Pandaren, Monk class, Challenge Mode, and the Siege of Orgrimmar raid.
  • Season of Discovery: a twist on Classic with runes and reworked raids.

Progress does not carry between Classic versions.

World of Warcraft: Forever | New Horizons | Cinematic Trailer · YouTube

How to choose

  1. Want a story and lots of modes? Start with Retail. The free trial is only here.
  2. Want slow, social play? Pick Classic Era or an expansion version.
  3. Want a fresh Classic-style world that keeps growing? Try Forever after November 4.
  4. Not sure? Use a one-month subscription and test two versions.

Teraz na żywo: World of Warcraft

Zobacz wszystko →

New to the game? Start with how to start playing WoW, or read the roadmap.

FAQ

Is WoW Classic included in the subscription?

Yes. Blizzard says one WoW subscription gives access to both World of Warcraft and WoW Classic.

Is WoW Forever the same as Classic?

No. Blizzard says it is a separate permanent version, not a Classic mode or season, though it shares the 1 to 60 focus.

Which version is best for new players?

Retail is easiest to try because it has the free trial up to level 20 and a guided story. Classic suits players who want slower, group play.

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