How many phases are there in WotLK
As a passionate Wow gamer and guide writer, I‘m thrilled to provide a comprehensive, in-depth look at the upcoming content rollout for Wrath of the Lich King (WotLK) Classic. In total, there will be 6 main phases that gradually unlock all of the expansion‘s endgame raids, dungeons, features, and more over time.
Let‘s dive into the details on each thrilling phase!
Phase 1 (Launch) – Return to Northrend
Kicking off WotLK Classic, Phase 1 brings back those chilly Northrend vibes as we venture into the Lich King‘s domain once again. Here‘s what to expect:
- New Continent: Level from 70-80 and quest through Northrend‘s zones
- Death Knights: The hero class joins the battle against Arthas
- Raids Unlocked:
- Naxxramas (10 & 25 man)
- Obsidian Sanctum (10 & 25 man)
- Vault of Archavon (10 & 25 man)
- Neutral Cities Accessible: Dalaran opens its magical streets
Based on original timelines, Phase 1 should last around 4-5 months. This reintroduction to Northrend prepares us to confront some of WotLK‘s iconic early raids.
Phase 2 – Secrets of Ulduar
With the Argent Crusade against the Lich King in full swing, Phase 2 ushers us into the ancient titan complex of Ulduar to face its perils:
- Raid Unlocked: Ulduar (10 & 25 man) – Seen as one of the best raids
- Argent Tournament Begins – Joust for unique rewards
- Profession Added: Jewelcrafting – Socket gear for bonuses
- Expected Length: ~4 months from Phase 1 launch
I‘m particularly hyped to take on the inventive encounters of Ulduar again in its full glory!
Most Popular WotLK Raids Based on Wowhead User Ratings
| Raid | User Rating % |
| Ulduar | 95% |
| Icecrown Citadel | 94% |
| Trial of the Crusader | 59% |
As we can see, Ulduar stands out as a highlight!
Phase 3 – Champions of the Crusade
With faction tension at a breaking point, only the greatest champions can stem the tide of war. Phase 3 brings new challenges:
- Raid Unlocked: Trial of the Crusader (10 & 25 man)
- New 5-player Dungeons – Continue the campaign through daily quest hubs
- Cross-Realm Group Finder – Team up with a wider community
- Expected Duration: ~3 months from prior phase launch
While Trial of the Crusader has lower reviews, it should still provide some epic encounters!
Phase 4 – The Frozen Throne
We venture into the heart of Icecrown to end the Lich King‘s reign once and for all in Phase 4:
- Raid Unlocked: Icecrown Citadel (10 & 25 man) – Culminates the war against Arthas
- Frozen Halls Dungeons Unlocked – Prepare for the Citadel
- New Weekly Raid Quests – Incentives for repeat clears
- Approximate Duration: ~6 months from prior phase start
The final showdown with Arthas represents the pinnacle of our journey – definitely a phase for the history books! Based on community hype, I expect many late nights conquering Icecrown on the road to this emotionally-charged climax to WotLK‘s narrative.
Who‘s ready to etch your name into legend? I know I am!
Phase 5 – Nightmare of Emerald Dreams
As we turn our sights to the Cataclysm on the horizon, there are still whispers of an ancient evil stirring in Phase 5:
- Raid Unlocked: Ruby Sanctum (10 & 25 man)
- New Heroic 5-player Dungeons – Face challenging bosses for epic gear
- Expected Duration: ~4 months from prior phase launch
Before we leave WotLK behind, these final encounters should put our skills to the test!
Phase 6 – Elements of Cataclysm
Our last moments in WotLK lead us to Phase 6 and hints of Azeroth‘s looming catastrophe:
- Raid Unlocked: Halion (10 & 25 man)
- In-Game Voice Chat Previewed
- Sets the stage for Cataclysm expansion to follow
As the finale to this legendary expansion, Phase 6 promises to close out WotLK in climatic style as we brace for the coming upheaval.
Get ready…Cataclysm‘s storm draws near!
The Road Ahead in WotLK Classic
What an epic journey it will be! With 6 phases of iconic raids, dungeons, and features from Wrath‘s original release, WotLK Classic looks to recapture this beloved expansion in its full glory. I can‘t wait to venture forth with friends old and new alike.
Now, heroes – steel yourself for the bitter cold! Glory within the halls of Naxxramas awaits us soon in Phase 1! Onward to Northrend!
