Blizzard to introduce cross-faction play in World of Warcraft Patch 9.2.5

Ever since World of WarCraft released in 2004 the playerbase had been split into the two factions Horde and Alliance. Blizzard is now aiming to implement a bridge between the two rivals with cross-faction instances.

Times change

Previously the developers had always claimed that the faction conflict was part of the Warcraft franchise’s identity and refused any considerations of a change. As Shadowlands’ patch cycle continues, players will be able to enjoy cross-faction play in Patch 9.2.5.

Instead of just opening the floodgates, Blizzard has decided to make the new feature focused on organized instanced play and as much opt-in as possible.

Limited Cross-Faction

In order to uphold those two aspects the new feature will be limited to dungeons, raids, rated PvP. Players need to be connected through BattleTag or Real ID friendship or be part of a cross-faction WoW community before they are able to invite each other across the faction boundary. Group Finder parties will also be able to open up recruitment for both factions, but can also remain same-faction only if they want to. Guilds and regular matchmaking activities will also remain locked to one faction.

Several instances in the game will be exempt from cross-faction parties as they feature heavy factional fights (like Battle of Dazar’alor etc.). Cross-Faction parties will also remain unfriendly to each other in the open world. It is only once inside instanced content that they will act like regular party members.

Most players seem to be welcoming to the changes as the player numbers have dwindled over recent years and Cross-Faction play might alleviate many of the issues.

Read more:

• Microsoft to acquire Activision Blizzard for almost $70 billion
• World of Warcraft Shadowlands’ final content update revealed: Eternity’s End

What do you think of Cross-Faction Play? Join the discussion on social media or our Discord!

Image Credits: Activision Blizzard