One of the key developers behind Undermine(d) recently sat down with us to explore the latest World of Warcraft update. Unlike any city we’ve ventured to before in Azeroth, this new locale is teeming with life, featuring streets crafted for speed. Discover how you’ll be navigating and drifting through these vibrant cityscapes in new, souped-up hot rods.
Imagine blending New York’s iconic energy with a steampunk twist where safety takes a backseat. That’s exactly the atmosphere you dive into with Undermine, the freshly launched zone in World of Warcraft. Having had the privilege of leading the design of this area with my incredibly skilled teammates on the WoW team, I’m thrilled to share more about this goblin metropolis and its exhilarating, driveable vehicles.
Let’s start by diving into the exciting new D.R.I.V.E. feature, which stands for Dynamic and Revolutionary Improvement to Vehicular Experiences (yes, we know it’s a mouthful, but we’re pretty proud of it!). This update adds an engaging twist to World of Warcraft by bringing in the G-99 Breakneck—a goblin-engineered hot rod ready to tear through the streets of Undermine.
Unlocking this vehicle is quite the adventure in itself. Early in your questing journey, after completing “Eyes from Above” in the main campaign, you’ll have the opportunity to take on “No More Walkin’ Here” and get to grips with the Breakneck. The design philosophy was inspired by the quirky yet brilliant workshop of WoW goblins, complete with outlandish features like giant flames spurting from the engine—a perfect match for the chaotic, lively avenues of Undermine.
We were keen to introduce the classic drift feature—something we’re sure many racing game enthusiasts will appreciate. Bringing this dynamic element into World of Warcraft was no small feat, but it sparked a wave of excitement among the team. Our aim was to encapsulate the sense of freedom and mastery you feel when you get behind the wheel of your first car.
And the Breakneck is not just a solo ride; it’s a passenger mount too! Friends can hop in and zoom around the city with you, engaging in races that test your skills on varied courses. For anyone who finds the speed a little dizzying, we’ve made sure accessibility is paramount. After unlocking, you can choose to install a slower engine or just stick with regular ground mounts—whatever floats your boat.
The true magic of Undermine isn’t just in having somewhere to drive your new wheels—it’s in the vibrant tapestry of the city itself. Picture yourself delivering hot towels, or tackling a ghostly tiger scaring the local kids. Every corner of this bustling city breathes life, from pirates and mobsters to fantastical chefs and more.
Undermine is alive, literally buzzing over the veins of Azeroth. It’s a dense, thriving goblin city, bustling with commerce and creativity, a hive of activity that’s distinctly different from the more traditional cityscapes of WoW.
The zone represents boundless potential. Undermine, with its Slam Central Station and spots like the Incontinental Hotel and the Gallagio, showcases goblin flair and ambition. It’s a city driven by innovation and the quest for a better life.
The overarching story here echoes the larger narrative of The War Within, centered on lifting one’s circumstances. Characters new and familiar, such as Renzik and Gazlowe, guide you through this narrative, weaving tales of home and aspirations. While figures like Gazlowe initially seek greener pastures, the unfolding story ignites a revolution led by the players—a chance to overthrow oppressors and reclaim the city.
So why not join us in Undermine, a city buzzing with speed and stealthy deals. Remember, in our world, it doesn’t matter if you drift an inch or a mile—drifting’s still drifting!
The Undermine(d) update is now live in World of Warcraft on PC through Battle.net. For more information, head on over to WorldOfWarcraft.com.
