Hello!
In my numerous years of playing WoW, since the end of vanilla actually, I have returned to relive the classic experience. I have so far enjoyed my return, and the memories of Northrend have left me feeling cozier than ever. I am somewhat distraught, though, at the potential release of Cataclysm for a very specific set of reasons.
Let me start by saying that I actually don’t hate Cataclysm, and I believe everyone has the right to their own opinion on it. For myself, Cataclysm is what changed WoW for me in some fun ways, and some bad ways as well. For instance, I did not want my hand held from the beginning, but more importantly, I despised several world changes. I understand why Blizzard did it at it’s original release; to attract new players, freshen things up a bit, &c. However, changing the world to such high degrees is what removed the “fantasy” for me in many zones, or at least the nostalgia.
I am here today to propose something that perhaps Blizzard has not heard before, and perhaps they will never hear, but I hope they consider. While WOTLK may have just launched, and Cataclysm may or may not be introduced in the future, I would like to propose that certain zones be left alone during Deathwing’s return. My personal favorite area, Azshara, is one that I can and do walk around for hours. It’s lack of quests actually lead to a lack of surplus players, which, in hindsight, provides a subtle, peaceful, and quiet landscape unparalleled to any other. This of course changes in Cataclysm, when the Goblins decimate the zone, and it’s beauty is forever lost.
Henceforth, be you with or against me, I am certainly subject to criticism and ridicule. However, I am adamant about creating what I deem the Azshara Preservation Society. This does not only extend to my favorite zone, but to the favorite zones of others as well. I would ask not only for comments, but for a statement of approval, or even disapproval, to be put down below.
Azshara is a beautiful place, as is Ashenvale and, in its own way, Darkshore. All of these zones see changes which feel as if they are from a comic book as opposed to a fantasy game. I ask you Blizzard to hear my plea, to leave some of the zones alone, to open up new ones such as the beautiful Hyjal, and consider keeping more of the classic in classic WoW. As I did have a decently good time in Cataclysm, for me at least, it marks the beginning of what is now retail WoW. Sure, you could give us the Chromie time travel option, but that induces the feeling of being left behind. I am asking for the preservation of these illustrious biomes.
Last but not least, I would request that the dragons guarding the Emerald Dream portals perhaps be left untouched as well. These are the most classic enemies you can get. I remember being a level 20 something warlock wandering around Duskwood when my curiosity got me crushed by the mighty Lethon. For myself, Classic is reliving the glory days as I am seeing in Northrend. There is something magical about wandering around Azshara, Ashenvale, and the frozen wastes of Northrend that leave me feeling cozy and at home. If you agree or disagree, please post below, I am eager to hear how others consider my view. Thank you.