World of Warcraft: Battle for Azeroth – Rise of Azshara Update Live

If you’re interested in checking out some fresh World of Warcraft content and finally exploring Nazjatar, the undersea Naga kingdom we first learned about during The Frozen Throne expansion for Warcraft III, you can now do so thanks to the latest Rise of Azshara update for the long-running MMORPG. And before you do, here’s a couple of fairly spoiler-rich cinematics to get you in the right mood:

A quick overview of the update:

The Rise of Azshara content update is packed with new features, including the addition of Essences to the Heart of Azeroth system; two entirely new zones—Nazjatar and Mechagon; Heritage Armor for tauren and gnomes; new Benthic gear to help you face the trials ahead; a raid that takes you into the depths of Azshara’s Eternal Palace; and much more.

THE WAR CAMPAIGN CONTINUES: STAY OF EXECUTION

Upon learning of Sylvanas’s plans to execute Baine Bloodhoof for treason, the Alliance and the Horde send strike teams to infiltrate the Kor’kron Barracks and rescue the noble tauren chieftain—meeting up with an old orcish ally along the way.

The latest episode of the War Campaign is available to level 120 players who have completed the previous chapters and finished the quest “Clearing the Cache.” Speak to Lady Jaina Proudmoore or Lor’themar in Nazjatar to begin this perilous mission.

NEW ISLAND EXPEDITIONS

Set sail and discover two new Islands: Crestfall and Snowblossom Village. New loot including armor, weapons, and pets awaits players, but beware: you’re not alone. Faction rivals will want to hoard the spoils for themselves. Take them down!

MYTHIC KEYSTONE SEASON 3

The new Mythic Keystone Dungeon season opens July 9th with opportunities for new rewards and an all-new challenge with a new seasonal affix: Beguiling. Queen Azshara’s agents have infiltrated dungeons to strike down Azeroth’s champions when they least expect it. Three different emissaries will bolster enemy ranks, and they’ll prove to be deadly adversaries, so make them treat them as priority targets! Visiting emissaries can change every week and can even disrupt patrolling units, who will stop to pay them tribute. Learn more in the Rise of Azshara content update notes.

PVP SEASON 3

Season 3 brings a wave of new player-versus-player content on July 9th. Get ready to raze the enemy faction in the Ashran Epic Battleground, and take on all comers in the new Mechagon-themed Arena. Participants can earn two new Vicious Basilisk mounts, and the highest-rated players will unlock new Notorious Gladiator mounts. Learn more in the Rise of Azshara content update notes.