World of Warcraft Dragonflight has made significant improvements in terms of design, but there are still areas that need attention. While end-game content has been polished with exciting features, leveling remains a tedious and unfulfilling experience.
WoW Classic Hardcore has taught players the importance of both the journey and the destination in MMORPGs. Unfortunately, Dragonflight fails to deliver an engaging leveling experience. Despite the option to revisit old expansions through Chromie Time, players often find themselves alone on deserted continents, rushing through dungeons with Heirloom gear just to reach level 70 quickly.
The old world, including Pandaria, Northrend, and Outland, is left empty and devoid of action. All the excitement happens at max level, leaving no incentive for players to explore and enjoy the lower-level content.
Even I am guilty of spamming dungeons to level up new characters, as the traditional RPG leveling feels like a chore compared to the streamlined approach of Dragonflight. It’s tempting to take the easy route and rush through the leveling process to get back to the more enjoyable aspects of the game.
Blizzard has neglected leveling and old content for years. While the Chromie Time update improved the leveling experience by providing a more logical progression, it failed to address the core issue of irrelevance. Everything done during leveling has no impact on the end game, where the real fun begins. Collectibles, gearing up, PvP, and Mythic+ dungeons are only accessible at max level.
Revitalizing the old continents and making the journey as important as the destination is crucial. Years of content development are going to waste, and Blizzard needs to find a way to bring players back to these forgotten areas and revive the fantasy elements.
While I don’t have a solution, it’s clear that leveling is a significant part of the game that needs attention. The first hour of gameplay is crucial in hooking new players, and the current leveling experience may turn them away.
Perhaps the next expansion will bring a world revamp and transform WoW into a true MMORPG adventure once again. Only time will tell.
Source: DOTESPORTS
