World graphics
Environmental rendering
Updated water, mist and lighting add environmental detail to original Azeroth.
- Examples
- Water, mist, moonlight
- Locations shown
- Elwynn, Darkshore, Ashenvale
- Alternative
- Classic world preset
Environmental rendering: overview
Modern world rendering adds flowing rivers in Elwynn Forest, mist over Darkshore’s water and moonlight through Ashenvale’s trees. The update keeps the geography and original Warcraft art direction recognisable.
The Classic world preset remains an alternative. Switching presentation does not change where a quest takes place or the rules of a fight, so you can choose the look that suits your screen and performance.
When adjusting graphics, check busy outdoor areas as well as a quiet character-selection scene. Keep enemies, ground effects and the interface easy to read; a setting that looks attractive while standing still may be less helpful during a crowded pull.
Key mechanics and preparation
- Water, fog and lighting receive new rendering effects.
- Darkshore and Ashenvale are named examples.
- Visual presets allow a Classic presentation.
Launch details
- Complete list of updated zones
- Graphics hardware requirements
- Final per-effect settings