‘World of Warcraft’ expansion release date: ‘Shadowlands Afterlives’ animated series premieres at Gamescom

With only a few months left before the end of 2020, it also means that the release of “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” is happening soon. Before that happens, Blizzard allows fans to explore the new zones in the expansion through the launch of a series of animated shorts titled “Shadowlands Afterlives.”

‘World of Warcraft: Shadowlands’ animated series launches on Gamescom

The next expansion for the “World of Warcraft” will introduce four new zones where gamers will spend most of their time leveling up. These locations are also rife with distinct stories narrating how it was affected by all the chaos that took place during the “Battle for Azeroth.”

Some of the highlights in “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” are the different Covenants that rule in every zone: the Kyrian in Bastion, the Necrolord in Maldraxxus, the Night Fae in Ardenweald, and the Venthyr in Revendreth. Fortunately, fans do not have to wait to be invited to the beta or for the official release date to explore these zones and meet the Covenants. The animated series “Shadowlands Afterlives” will introduce these new characters and locations to avid gamers starting on Thursday, Aug. 27.

The series is composed of four animated shorts most likely dedicating one episode for each Covenant. It will premiere during the opening of Gamescom on the said date at 2 p.m. EDT. To watch the “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” animated series, tune in to the livestream event through this link.

‘World of Warcraft: Shadowlands’ gameplay

The lore of “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” revolves around the afterlife. While players will be able to explore all four zones in the expansion, later on, they will have to choose which Covenant to join for good. The animated series and the actual gameplay should then help gamers form a decision on which Covenant best fits their character.

Each Covenant in “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” features unique tactical skills, transport network, source of Anima, and Soulbind. Choosing the Covenant to join is a major decision as it affects how the player’s adventures and endgame in the expansion would play out. Blizzard previously implied that changing the choice of Covenant is possible, although it comes with a price.

‘World of Warcraft: Shadowlands’ release date

Blizzard has already opened the beta testing for “World of Warcraft: Shadowlands” but only gamers with an invitation can join. The expansion is also now available for pre-purchase starting at $39.99 for the Base Edition and up to $119.99 for the Collector’s Edition. Its release date is set sometime in the Fall.