Blizzard Entertainment keeps details about its upcoming projects close to its chest. It’s neigh impossible to get anything from anyone at the company that hasn’t been approved for discussion, script in hand. So we take what we can get, when we can get it. Case in point, today’s interview with Dave Kosak and Roman Marotte, two designers, discussing the process of crafting Southern Barrens.
As most of you know, The Barrens is being split in two by the cataclysmic events that’s to kick off Cataclysm. The fate of the pop-culture land being split in twain has been known since BlizzCon 2009. Now we have a ton of facts behind its design choices, overall storyline and original inspiration straight from the team that made it.
Slorkuz
Q. Without giving up any spoilers, what’s the general storyline for this zone? How has it changed from the original design?
A. “An eye for an eye” is the theme, with each side taking and losing ground, descending deeper and deeper into violent conflict. From the Horde perspective, players will learn the grim fate of Camp Taurajo and Honor’s Stand. It’s then up to the players to rally their faction’s disorganized forces, initiate a change in local leadership, and avenge the sacking of Taurajo. The Alliance, meanwhile, struggles to hold on to recent gains, fending off attacks from all fronts. Players will also fight to save Northwatch Hold from the brink of capture and keep the roadways from Theramore open. Additionally, both factions have to deal with the explosive growth of a strange new jungle spreading across the Barrens. This is all entirely new content for the expansion.
Check out the full interview here.
I don’t know if its just what I’ve been reading of Cataclysm, but this is the first I’ve heard of an Alliance gain in the expantion. A happy note for my faction of choice.