When you first step into the latest zone of World of Warcraft, Undermine, you might feel like you’ve been transported to a New York-inspired city, complete with a steampunk twist and a lively, bustling atmosphere. This zone, which launched just this week, offers a new dimension of gameplay that blends the traditional with some high-octane innovation. As one of the developers who helped bring this goblin metropolis to life, I’m excited to dive into what sets Undermine apart and share how its fast-paced, vehicle-centric adventures came to be.
### Dive Into Undermine
With the introduction of the D.R.I.V.E feature — or Dynamic and Revolutionary Improvement to Vehicular Experiences — players now have the opportunity to rev up their engines in Azeroth. It’s a bit of a mouthful, but trust me, it adds a thrilling layer to the game.
Early in your questing journey, you’ll shift gears after unlocking the G-99 Breakneck. It’s a sleek nod to the classic hot rod but with the distinctive, patchwork flair that World of Warcraft’s goblins are known for. This new ride is part of the quest series you’ll encounter after completing “Eyes from Above” and continuing with “No More Walkin’ Here.”
Our creative process focused on preserving the goblin-style aesthetic, resulting in vehicles that look like they were cobbled together in the most genius ways. Massive flames shoot from the scoops, and it’s just what you’d expect — perfectly suited to handle the chaotic, winding roads of Undermine.
One of the standout features we managed to include is the ability to drift, reminiscent of older racing games. It wasn’t an easy feat, but we were determined to capture the joy of that extra grip and freedom, much like when you first got your driver’s license and the world seemed wide open.
This car isn’t just limited to solo rides; it’s a hub for social interaction too. Invite your friends and navigate the vibrant streets of Undermine together. Get ready to race in thrilling new events, complete with varying difficulty levels and reverse tracks. For those who prefer a more leisurely ride, adjust the speed with a customizable engine to suit your pace.
### Explore the Streets
Undermine is more than just a city — it’s a bustling realm where opportunities for adventure await. From delivering hot towels to confronting ghostly tigers spooking the locals, there’s always a mini-quest calling your name. It’s a lively, engaging place filled with pirates, mobsters, and of course, a vibrant market culture driven by goblins.
This city under a false sky pulses with life and is leagues apart from some of the more traditional zones in World of Warcraft. It thrives with goblin ingenuity, features quirky locales like Slam Central Station and the Gallagio, and is peppered with cheekily-named stops like the Incontinental Hotel.
The story of Undermine is one of transformation and resilience, echoing the central themes of The War Within. It’s a narrative of change, where figures like Orweyna introduce us to the Ringing Deeps and other pivotal story arcs. Longtime players may reconnect with familiar characters like Renzik and Gazlowe, bringing an added layer of depth to the city’s lore.
Throughout the tale, Gazlowe experiences a transformative journey, pushing players to challenge the status quo and reclaim Undermine from oppressive forces. It’s a tale of liberation and collective strength that resonates with anyone who’s ever dreamed of revolution.
Join us in Undermine — a city teeming with thrills and unexpected turns at every corner. Whether you’re drifting through the streets or embracing the richly woven storyline, the experiences here promise something for veterans and newcomers alike.
The Undermine(d) update is now live on World of Warcraft, ready for you to explore on PC through Battle.net. For more on this exciting chapter, head over to WorldOfWarcraft.com.
