World of Warcraft Still Has a Gold Mine of Potential Playable Races
From the deep deserts of Zandalar to the mystic void, World of Warcraft holds a treasure trove of untapped races waiting to be made playable.
The introduction of a new playable race in World of Warcraft is always a major event, filled with possibilities for unique gameplay and rich storytelling. While the surge of allied races in Battle for Azeroth brought some exciting variety, these new additions have been rare, and each one comes with its own challenges. Integrating a new race into the world of Azeroth requires careful attention to its lore, its role in the conflict, and how it aligns with existing gameplay mechanics. The race must feel like it belongs, contributing something new to the fantasy while still fitting into the game’s expansive world. Fortunately, several races already introduced to WoW have the potential to become playable, offering fresh and dynamic experiences for players.
The Crafty Sethrak of Zandalar
The Sethrak, a serpentine race from the desert wastelands of Vol’dun on Zandalar, represent a compelling addition. These cobra-like beings are natural spellcasters, skilled in the ways of lightning magic and shamanism, with a warrior’s precision in combat. Known for their venomous blades and long lifespans, the Sethrak have the potential to fit several classes, though they may not easily align with paladins or druids.
Having worked alongside both the Alliance and Horde during the Battle for Azeroth expansion to protect their homeland and defeat the eldritch terror Mythrax, the Sethrak have already demonstrated their loyalty to Azeroth’s cause. With their rich lore, these serpentine beings could join either faction, making them a versatile and compelling choice for any future expansion.
Draenor’s Botanical Wonders: The Botani
The Botani, a race of sentient plant lifeforms from Draenor, are some of the most unique creatures in World of Warcraft. Though they are known for their hostility toward orcs and other races, the Botani are powerful in both magic and combat, wielding nature-based abilities with deadly precision. These beings, who are tied to the primal forces of Draenor, might consider aiding Azeroth’s defenders in the face of a universal threat, such as the Void.
Their potential as a playable race is limitless, especially with the aesthetic possibilities that come with being composed of plant matter. From shapeshifting into druid forms to crafting armor from vines and flowers, the Botani could bring an exciting new dimension to gameplay. Their alien nature, however, would require careful exploration in the narrative, making their inclusion a challenging but exciting possibility.
The Noble Ankoan: Warriors of the Deep
The Ankoan, a race of semi-aquatic humanoids, already have a foothold in World of Warcraft’s lore through their alliances with the Alliance during Battle for Azeroth. Skilled in both land and water-based combat, they are expert warriors and spellcasters, with a culture built around honor and courage. These amphibious beings would be a perfect fit for a future expansion centered around the seas or underwater exploration.
Whether alongside the Alliance or the Horde, the Ankoan’s keen sense of justice would make them an intriguing ally in the battle for Azeroth’s future. Their racial abilities could include water breathing and enhanced swimming speed, while their customization options could feature unique aquatic features, like fish spines or stingray-inspired weapons.
The Ethereal: Survivors of the Void
Few races in World of Warcraft are as tied to the game’s overarching lore as the Ethereal. First introduced in The Burning Crusade, these mysterious beings are survivors of the Void’s devastation. Once a thriving people on the desert world of K’aresh, the Ethereal were transformed into beings of pure energy after their planet was consumed by the Void Lord Dimensius. Bound in magical bandages to hold their fragile forms together, the Ethereal are both tragic and formidable, with deep knowledge of the Void that could make them invaluable allies in the coming battles of Azeroth’s future.
As the Worldsoul Saga unfolds, the Ethereal’s mysterious history and arcane powers could make them essential to the storyline. A race with a tragic past and a deep understanding of the Void would fit naturally into the game’s ever-expanding lore and could provide a unique, otherworldly experience for players.
Room for More Anthro Races
While World of Warcraft already boasts a variety of anthropomorphic races like Worgen, Tauren, and Pandaren, there’s always room for more. The Furbolg, a bear-like race of shamanistic beings, have long been a fan-favorite and could offer a deeper exploration of their complex culture and role in Azeroth’s mystical balance. Similarly, the Tuskarr, the walrus-like creatures from Wrath of the Lich King, are another potential addition that many players have been clamoring for. With their shamanic traditions and focus on family and community, the Tuskarr could bring a jovial yet grounded energy to the game’s roster.
World of Warcraft has a long history of drawing inspiration from real-world cultures, and both the Furbolg and Tuskarr would be fascinating examples of how the game continues to blend fantasy with cultural homage.
Conclusion
While World of Warcraft already offers a vast array of playable races, many more lie just beyond the horizon, waiting to be brought to life. From the serpentine Sethrak of Zandalar to the ethereal survivors of the Void, the game’s world is rich with potential additions that could not only enhance gameplay but also deepen the game’s already complex lore. Whether through unique combat abilities, rich backstories, or fascinating aesthetics, these untapped races would make incredible additions to World of Warcraft's growing roster of heroes and villains.