Alright, so saberon, why do we want them and why would they fit? I’m going to try and make a argument as to why we should have them as a playable race within WoW. In my opinion, despite their limited lore, I believe that they offer a unique opportunity to enrich the playable races in “World of Warcraft.” Their potential for distinctive cultural contributions, relevance in the current lore context, and integration into either the Horde or Alliance makes them an interesting choice.
Distinctive Survival Narrative
Unlike MANY of the other races in WoW, I believe the survival of a dying and now very possibly dead world, could have a strong and compelling narrative of survival that ties into the aftermath of the destruction of Draenor. As we know, while their home-world was indeed lost, some Saberon did manage to escape alongside some other races to Azeroth. I believe that journey and adaptation to a new world can serve as a very central theme into their inclusion as a playable race. On another note, if we take into account the Botani threat and go the route of the Saberon holding them off while trying to make a home for themselves… I believe this kind of narrative above all else could emphasize a resilience within the Saberon of a people who must struggle to survive. Maybe even a quest for a new identity could be tossed into this narrative? This could resonate with players who appreciate stories of survival and perseverance… If done properly that is.
Cultural Identity
As of right now, we know next to NOTHING about them, thus presents ample opportunity to GIVE them an identity. Many races of the Horde, and WoW in general, have tribal characteristics; the Saberon possess a unique identity that can be further developed in the game. They COULD be portrayed as a proud, fiercely independent race that values strength, agility, and adaptability—traits that are essential for survival in the harsh environments of Azeroth and Draenor. Would be good to have their more feline nature to lend into this as well I think, in a unique manner that could play itself into the racial/ingame mechanics. ie enhanced agility/dodge, less fall damage, stealth, or if you want to tie in their history with Arakoa (sorry if mispelled) a net that can be used to slow the target. Could also tie into cultural practices that can highlight a connection to the wilds.
On the last bit, the Saberon could be depicted as having a strong spiritual connection to the natural world, valuing the balance between predator and prey. This point of view could be differentiated from other races by emphasizing their reverence for the hunt as not just a means of survival, but as a sacred ritual that (in their culture) fosters unity in the tribe. This cultural angle can be woven into their questlines and racial abilities, allowing players to engage with their values and traditions.
Horde Integration
The Saberon could find a home within the Horde due to their shared experiences of loss and their desire to protect their new environment, their new home. Their skills as hunters and warriors (and shamans from what we’ve seen in WoD) can complement the Horde’s existing combat strategies. They could take on roles such as scouts or skirmishers, utilizing their agility and stealth in battle. Additionally, their unique perspective on nature could introduce new shamanistic practices that could benefit the Horde, fostering a new alliance of mutual respect and strength.
Alliance Integraiton
Alternatively, if the Alliance were to recruit the Saberon, it could be framed as a mission of compassion and understanding (Although I’m not sure how well that’d work myself tbh). The Saberon could be natural allies against the Botani, using their knowledge of the land and its creatures to combat the encroaching threat. Their potential for harmonious cooperation with Night Elves and Druids could be explored, creating a story that could highlight their unique perspectives on nature and balance. Although, Saberon’s view would be more “Law of the Jungle” type of mindset as mentioned earlier.
While I love the Alliance, the Saberon make the most sense for Horde… But if they get Saberon give Alliance Arrakoa or something else that’s cool! Alright back to topic!
Current Threats and Landscape?
Currently, within the landscapes and story of World of Warcraft, we are facing one of the most significant and pressing threats to the world… The Void. Whose very forces continue to encroach upon Azeroth, introducing chaos and corruption. Thus the need for allies of diverse backgrounds and skills become more and more critical as this war progresses. The Saberon, with their unique skills and connection to the natural world, COULD serve as vital allies in the struggle against this pervasive darkness.
By incorporating the Saberon as a playable race, or just making them friendly in general, the game can explore their role in a broader narrative that combines the threats of the Void with emerging challenges from Draenor’s remnants. I believe this idea was first brought forward by Bagzak? (Please correct me if I’m wrong) The very idea of the Void and Botani merging, is beyond terrifying. BOTH of whom are all about consuming the world, so it’s not hard to imagine them teaming up or the void forcing them to. Now, the Saberon’s experiences in navigating hostile environments and their potential for guerrilla tactics (something I’d love to see more of ingame) can provide players with innovative strategies to combat these threats. Even if the player themselves don’t get to do that, it could be seen through the story of the future expansions via quests. ON TOP OF THAT, we could have questlines that highlight their efforts to protect their home and the natural balance of this new home from this new threat. Not only enriching the Saberon’s “character arc” but also aligns them with the CURRENT ongoing story within the game. Thus ensuring their integration is meaningful, and even relevant to the evolving state of Azeroth… Instead of just yeeting them at us like “HERE HAVE SOME CATS!”
The Conclusion
By adding Saberon as a playable race within this “World of Warcraft”, it presents an opportunity to introduce NOT ONLY a unique cultural identity, but also a survival narrative that could resonate with the player base as a whole. A distinct value regarding the hunt, combined with a potential integration within current lore, would make them a more exciting and relevant addition to the roster. By highlighting their resilience, adaptability, and unique perspectives on nature, the Saberon can enrich the world of “World of Warcraft” and provide players with new and compelling gameplay experiences… That and Tribal Cat people are just cool, cmon.