It’s the 30th anniversary of the release of Warcraft, and to celebrate, Blizzard is bringing back two great classics. Blizzard announced today that it will release remasters of the original Warcraft and Warcraft 2, both of which will be released today.
During today’s Warcraft 30th Anniversary livestream, Blizzard revealed both versions, which will include completely updated graphics as well as the option to return to the original visuals, a number of quality of life features, and enhanced UI and user experience features. Warcraft II will also include multiplayer, where all legacy custom maps will be compatible and playable.
It is crucial that they are described as a remaster rather than a complete “reimagining” like Warcraft III: Reforged. Warcraft III: Reforged was widely criticized by fans of the original game for the numerous changes made to the original, technical issues, and features that were missing or degraded from the original. Our reviewer gave it a 7/10, but called it “uninspiring.” Upon its release, many fans expressed frustration that Blizzard had not simply remastered the original Warcraft III, which may be why Blizzard opted for a lighter touch with Warcraft I and II.
However, Warcraft III: Reforged is also receiving an update today that will include a graphics overhaul and several other quality of life changes that may improve the experience. This includes the ability to switch between new game graphics, old graphics, and a new redesigned look that is reminiscent of the classic look but at a higher resolution. Remastered players will also get the ability to mix and match some UI elements across all three graphic options.
Warcraft III: Reforged will join the remastered versions of Warcraft 1 and 2 in a revamped “Battle Chest” that harkens back to the popular classic pack. The bundle prices will be adjusted based on the games players already own, meaning that if you already own Reforged, you can add the two remasters at a discounted price.
Warcraft I and II Remastered, Warcraft III: Reforged 2.0, and the new Battle Chest are released today. You can catch up on everything announced in today’s Warcraft Direct here, including upcoming updates for World of Warcraft and World of Warcraft: Classic, and teases for the upcoming retail expansion, Midnight.
Rebecca Valentine is a senior reporter at IGN. You can find her posts at BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
