1. Picking a Server
This might not seem important, but it can be. The Blizzard servers are divided up into several regions -- you will want to pick the one in your region so time zones line up and everyone (or most everyone) you interact with speaks the same language. It can be difficult to get things done with a language barrier. Seems easy enough. But this is not the only choice you have to make when it comes to choosing a server.
The next thing you need to decide is what TYPE of server you want to be on. Blizzard breaks it up simply. PVE, Roleplay, PVP, PVP Roleplay.
PVP is where players can attack players no matte where they are. World PVP is constantly turned on. I don't recommend this setting for people just starting out. It can be frustrating to be learning how to play a game only to be gunned down while you are trying to read a quest.
Roleplay is just as it sounds. Have you heard the stories of Goldshire and ERP (Erotic Roleplay)? This is where they come from. The roleplay servers are just what they sound like. They are servers for people who enjoy putting a little more depth into their characters. They get jobs, families, some people get married. It's a whole different rabbit whole from the game itself but it can be enjoyable if that is your thing.
PVP Roleplay simply combines the previous two options
And PVE is what I recommend for beginners. It is the game plain and simple. The only enemies you have to worry about are the ones programmed into the game. You can raid, dungeon, do quests without having to worry about getting killed by another player. It is pretty straight forward.
After you chose what type of server you then need to decide on the population which ranges from High, Medium and Low. These are pretty straight forward. The lower the population the less crowded things will be. But it also means the less items will be on the auction house when the time comes -- if that is your thing.
2. Choosing a Class and Race
Okay! So you've got your serve picked and you are now looking at the character creation screen. To a new player the number of combinations can be overwhelming, but remember, if you don't like your first character you can make a new one! You are not bound to this one and only character. That is the nice thing about WoW.
Pick the class that speaks to you. I know a lot of people, back in the day, that would go on and on about class/race combinations being important. But at the end of the day, this is your character and you should pick the combination you like. Whether that is a Tauran hunter or a troll rogue or a human mage.
The one thing you need to remember, however, is factions do exist. Those on the horde side will not be able to interact with those on the alliance side -- so double check with your friends which side they are on so you can make sure to be able to play with them. Or not play with them if you are trying to avoid certain people.
3. Customization
Sadly, Blizzard's character customization is rather limited compared to other games. While they hav gotten better with the addition of Demon Hunters, they still could use some work. They have a handful of hair styles, facial hair, tattoos at times, ear rings and skin tones -- feel free to mix and match and make your character the way you like. There is no right answer here. And there is no rush. While you can change small things like hair style and color in game at the Barber Shop, a full character rework costs money, so if you wanna stick with this one, make sure you like them.
4. NAME NAME NAME
This is the part everyone dreads in all games. The name. World of Warcraft has been around for 12 years at this point --- That's a lot of names taken. But you are in luck! Blizzard excepts Windows Alt
Codes such as "ê, à, ï" and so on. These codes will allow you a little more leeway in getting the name you desire. It has been more than helpful to me. And will be helpful to you if you are deadset on naming your character after your favorite TV character or God/Goddess.
5. Playing!
Now that you have your character all made, it is time to play the game. Take a deep breath. The introductory quests are easy and often lead you to where you want to go. The hard part is behind you. Enjoy your new toon.
Let me know what other advice and tips you would like to see on this blog down in the comments and I will see you in my next post!
O.S
