WoW Classic Dungeons Guide
Dungeons… Do you feel it? It even sounds… adventurous.
Dungeon system in World of Warcraft is one the best I’ve ever seen in multiple MMO games. They were created with some interesting background lore behind them and with sheer love – you’ll feel it yourself one day, I think. Dungeons are areas, where you can go with 4 (or 9) your friends or acquainted guys or girls. All Dungeons are located in different zones and places, and they cover all level ranges up to the last level.
In this overview, I will try to go over all the WoW Classic Dungeons, tell you some common information and add some of my personal opinion fractions. And, of course, I will tell you about the most notable loot in each dungeon! Because the story and the lore are good, but… be honest, you do want that shiny sword or that powerful staff? Yeah, just as I thought. I want it too!
Heroes, assemble!
Usually, you will make a dungeon run with 5 people. In most cases, your group will include the following roles:
• One TANK. Classiсal by all means. A person who will hold threat, absorb tons of damage, and prevent the monsters from killing the rest of the group. As for WoW Classic, you’ll probably meet lots of Protection Warriors. These guys are equipped with a shield and use their famous threat-generating abilities: Sunder Armor and Shield Slam. Their main role is extremely simple: do NOT allow the monsters or boss to hit anyone, except you.
• Three DPS. Most classes can do adequate damage, but you may hear that it is better to be a Mage, Warrior, Rogue, Warlock, or Hunter for that. Hybrid classes (Druid, Paladin, Shaman) can also do damage, but (unfortunately for somebody) they will be usually asked to heal.
• One HEALER. This person must keep you and your party members alive. And, in case of a failure, resurrect all of you. A common choice for healers is the Priest. The Priest has some flexible healing abilities and important buffs: Power Word: Fortitude. Shaman, Druid, and Paladin can also be a good choice for future healers.
Group Restrictions
You can go to all WoW Classic Dungeons with a raid of 10 people. But, you can’t do this with the following dungeons: Blackrock Depths, Stratholme (Alive Part), Stratholme (Undead Part), Scholomance – they all have a 5-man dungeons restriction. And you should also know, that group quests can’t be completed while you’re in a raid group. Sad, but it’s a rule.
Ragefire Chasm – RFC (13-18)
Minimum Level: 10
Recommended Level: 13-18
Faction: Horde
Ragefire Chasm is a set of winding fiery crevices in caverns below Orgrimmar. There is a clan of Ragefire Troggs who inhabit the Chasm and can be a serious threat to the Horde if left ignored. There’re also some rumors about a Shadow Council group, that may also find their playgrounds in the caverns. The Warchief hopes that Horde members will spy on the Council, infiltrate the Chasm and lead the main Horde forces right to the masters of that dark place.
This instance is located deep under the Cleft of Shadow in Orgrimmar, and it’s considered to be a Horde-only dungeon. Alliance has no quests that ask to go there, but those adventurous enough can go to the Horde main city and enter the dungeon. Although, it’s probably not worth it. In my opinion, you can visit this Dungeon only once – just for fun. At a low level, it’s useless to go there in terms of time, and at higher levels, it’s useless to go there in terms of loot. So, only fun and dungeon story, I guess.
Important Loot: Robe of Evocation, Cursed Felblade, Chanting Blade.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the RFC, use Ragefire Chasm Strategy Guide.
Wailing Caverns – WC (15-25)
Minimum Level: 10
Recommended Level: 15-25
A famous night elf druid named Naralex found a wide system of underground caverns in the center of Northern Barrens. Called the ‘Wailing Caverns’, these natural caves are filled with steam fissures which create long and creepy wails when they erupt. Naralex thought that he could use the caverns’ mighty springs to reinvigorate the life in the Barrens – but doing so requires using the energies of the Emerald Dream.
Naralex connected himself to the Dream… and failed. The energy of his vision turned into a nightmare that shifted the reality itself. The Wailing Caverns have changed – the waters are now corrupted and friendly animals inside are now driven mad, willing to kill everyone in their path. It’s believed that Naralex still sleeps somewhere in the cursed labyrinth, locked between the Emerald Dream and our reality. The power of his nightmare was so strong, that even his former assistants turned into a new clan – the Druids of the Fang, who believe that the end days are near and that everything will be consumed by the Emerald Nightmare.
In my personal opinion, this is one of the most “mysterious” dungeons I’ve ever been. All these strange noises, waterfalls, mad druids and atmosphere of something coming is really wonderful. But nevertheless, this dungeon is not a straight line and it may cause some rage from players, who don’t want to use their brain.
Important Loot: Snakeskin Bag, Boahn’s Fang, Venomstrike, Deep Fathom Ring.
Embrace of the Viper set: Belt of the Fang, Footpads of the Fang, Gloves of the Fang, Leggings of the Fang, Armor of the Fang.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the WC, use Wailing Caverns Strategy Guide.
The Deadmines – DM (18-23)
Minimum Level: 10
Recommended Level: 18-23
Faction: Alliance
Before the First War, the Deadmines was the biggest gold-production place in the human domain. It is believed that almost a third of the Deadmines’ gold deposits was equivalent to a third of King’s treasures. Nevertheless, the mine was abandoned at the end of the First War. During the war chaos and distemper, the mine was abandoned and thought to be cursed. It was practically halcyon until the moment when the Defias Brotherhood — a group of former masons who were deceived by the ruling elite – took the labyrinth inside the mines as a base for their rebellious operations. Their brave and dogged leader, Edwin VanCleef, began constructing a juggernaut in the depths of the mines with goblin and ogre assistance.
The Deadmines is located in Westfall, an Alliance zone. Therefore, the situation is similar to the Ragefire Chasm – it is considered an Alliance-only place. Horde members can also get here if they want, but it’s a mirror-like with the RFC – it’s not worth it. You will have other 5-man dungeons to go at this level if you’re a Horde player.
Deadmines as Dungeon is somewhat iconic – the place, it’s lore and setting is quite illustrious. And by the way, it’s one of those rare cases, when Alliance failed in terms of morality and wisdom – fat treasurers and dissembling Stormwind elite refused to pay for the mason’s labor. These guys were building and fixing the whole city after the war and you just ignored them? It’s political madness! One of the workers accidentally killed the Queen of Stormwind (Tiffin Ellerian Wrynn) by throwing a stone to the noble couple as an act of bitter offense from the side of Stonemasons. Varian, as would any mourning husband do, ordered to kill every riot member. And so, the notorious Defias Brotherhood emerged…
Important Loot: Smite’s Mighty Hammer, Cookie’s Stirring Rod, Emberstone Staff, Cruel Barb, Lavishly Jeweled Ring, Cookie’s Tenderizer.
Defias Leather set: Blackened Defias Armor, Blackened Defias Belt, Blackened Defias Boots, Blackened Defias Gloves, Blackened Defias Leggings
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the DM, use Deadmines Strategy Guide.
Shadowfang Keep – SFK (22-30)
Minimum Level: 14
Recommended Level: 22-30
During the Third War, the mages from Kirin Tor were fighting against the zombies and undead of the Scourge. The problem was that when a wizard died, he or she soon would rise as an undead mage – a new member of the Scourge – adding his or her battle power to the unstoppable Scourge. Angered by their lack of success, the mage named Arugal decided to summon powerful allies to strengthen the Kirin Tor ranks. Arugal’s plan went wrong and brought the ferocious Worgen – werewolves – into our reality. Worgen slaughtered both the Scourge and their mage commanders at once.
Wild werewolves rushed to the nearest noble keep – Baron Silverlaine’s Keep. Located above the tiny Pyrewood hamlet, the keep inevitably fell into darkness and squalor. Driven mad with failure, Arugal lost the last remains of his mind – he announced that Worgen are his “children” and went to the Worgen-infested keep, which was now named as the ‘Shadowfang Keep’. The mad mage still resides there with his massive and scary pets, waiting for hapless travelers and passers.
One of the most truly creepy and interesting dungeons! Werewolves, dark magic, ghosts, curses, medieval scenery and a majestic foggy forest outside the gloomy keep – what can be better for an epic adventure with friends? A must-visit place – 100% fun guaranteed!
Important Loot: Baron’s Scepter, Silverlaine’s Family Seal, Commander’s Crest, Meteor Shard, Feline Mantle.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the SFK, use Shadowfang Keep Strategy Guide.
Blackfathom Deeps – BFD (20-30)
Minimum Level: 15
Recommended Level: 20-30
Located in the secluded Zoram Strand of Ashenvale, Blackfathom Deeps was a beautiful moon-goddess Elune temple. Unfortunately, the great Sundering destroyed the temple, dragging it beneath the level of the Veiled Sea. It remained abandoned there for a very long period of time until – attracted by its magic emanations – different creatures like murlocs, naga, satyr and some Twilight Cultists found their way here. Now they are stalking around, trying to find out any secrets the temple still has.
There is a legend, that an ancient beast, Aku’mai, sleeps within the temple’s halls. According to the old scrolls, Aku’mai, a wild pet of the fearsome Old Gods, has dominated this area long ago. Drawn to its dark presence, the Twilight’s Hammer cult has visited this place to spread the Old Gods’ malefic presence.
Wonderful dungeon by all means: beautiful and interesting zone entrance, lots of quests that lead to this place, rich story and very, very interesting “lost shore” theme. Twilight Cultists, murlocs, naga, satyr, ancient temple and watery descent – you’ll find everything here. Have your own primordial adventure on the Zoram Strand of Ashenvale!
Important Loot: Tortoise Armor, Naga Heartpiercer, Reef Axe, Rod of the Sleepwalker, Strike of the Hydra.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the BFD, use Blackfathom Deeps Strategy Guide.
The Stockade – Stocks (22-30)
Minimum Level: 15
Recommended Level: 22-30
Faction: Alliance
The Stockade… A memorable, yet quite a miserable place for me, as an Alliance veteran. It’s a high-security prison complex, that is located under the Canal District in Stormwind. Guarded by Warden Thelwater, the Stockade is the right place for thieves, murderers, muggers and other sorts of “rakish folk”. Some time ago, a revolt has occurred in a prison, and now it’s in a stuck state – the guards can’t get in charge again while the criminals stray freely.
Warden Thelwater was skilled enough to escape the holding area alive, and now he is enlisting Stormwind soldiers and any adventurers, who dare to go into the prison and stop this clutter. They will be asked to kill the rebellion’s leader – the sneaky Bazil Thredd.
This is another 5-man dungeon that is that “faction-only” type. And again, I don’t recommend bothering with it if you play on the Horde side. It’s not worth it, as usual. As for the dungeon itself, personally, I don’t recall anything significant about it. Only one word comes to my mind – “grey walls”. But it’s a prison, right? There won’t be any fun activities and multi-colored things. Guys are serving their sentence here, and you’re tumbling here with your loot thirst. 😉
Important Loot: Kam’s Walking Stick, Iron Knuckles, Prison Shank, Defias Renegade Ring.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Stocks, use Tips’ Classic WoW Stockade Guide.
Gnomeregan – Gnomer (24-34)
Minimum Level: 19
Recommended Level: 24-34
Gnomeregan is a technological city (former capital) of gnomes, located in Dun Morogh. It was lost to an aggressive life-form – earth troggs, who invaded many places of Dun Morogh – and the gnome capital was the most vulnerable target for it. Gnome leader, High Tinker Mekkatorque, ordered the deadly venting of the radioactive waste tanks in Gnomeregan in order to kill the waves of troggs. Some gnomes were able to hide from the poisonous components in the air. Everyone waited for troggs to die or at least flee. But it never happened… Instead, troggs absorbed some radiation and toxins and became irradiated or toxic. Their savage assault continued. Alive gnomes (those, who were able to stay alive under the city’s pollution) were forced to abandon their city, asking for help in the nearest city of their dwarven allies – Ironforge. Now, High Tinker Mekkatorque is looking for some strong and prepared heroes for a rescue mission to his once beautiful and technological city.
There is a rumor, that this tragedy happened because of the Mekkatorque’s advisor – Mekgineer Thermaplugg, who betrayed everyone by allowing the troggs to dig their underground routes under the city. Intoxicated and irradiated, Thermaplugg now rules Gnomeregan while developing monstrous plans and willing to rule the world.
Gnomeregan is located in Dun Morogh, an Alliance zone, but it can be easily accessed by Horde members. They just should finish the appropriate questline that begins with the Rig Wars quest. Doing so they will unlock a teleporter at Booty Bay in Stranglethorn Vale, that will teleport any Horde player close to the Gnomeregan’s entrance. As for me, I don’t like that instance for several reasons: it’s quite long and I can’t handle the music there too long, although it’s only my personal opinion. But on the contrary, in terms of loot, this 5-man dungeon is quite notable, so I guess you just need to visit it at least several times – for the story and lore purposes of course, and for some very interesting loot. I remember my first Hydrocane drop till modern days because it was that type of items, that allow you something… new. And who wouldn’t want to breathe underwater for free, for example?
Important Loot: Hydrocane, Toxic Revenger, Electrocutioner Leg, Manual Crowd Pummeler, Electromagnetic Gigaflux Reactivator.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Gnomer, use Gnomeregan Strategy Guide.
Razorfen Kraul – RFK (30-40)
Minimum Level: 25
Recommended Level: 29-40
Long-time ago, during the War of the Ancients, there was the mighty demigod-boar, known as Agamaggan, who was fighting alongside mortals against the Burning Legion, and fell in battle. Although he was killed, he helped mortals to defend the planet from total annihilation. Time passed, and in the areas where his blood was spilled, giant thorny vines rose. There is a legend that quilboars – a race that resembles the mortal offspring of the god-boar, occupied these regions and believes them sacred now. The center of this thorny kingdom is called Razorfen.
Strangely, there is a new leader in Razorfen Kraul – the quilboar sorceress, Charlga Razorflank. She commands the rest of the quilboar race to attack rival creatures and races – especially lone Horde thorps. Now there are some rumors, that this Charlga has a meeting with Scourge agents… Her will-less clan will soon be filled with Undead minions – and even undead boars of her own tribe. You must discover what is going on in the Razorfen Kraul and stop Charlga’s malefic intentions.
I personally can recall some hard quests inside this dungeon, bone mountain with tons of skeletons, creepy undead monsters, and the “Corpsemaker” axe. These are the most vivid emotions I can recall from those days. I still remember that “rocking” feeling about those skeletons, and as for the “Corpsemaker”, I can tell you that our Arms Warrior was extremely happy to get it. And later we all discussed its fun and purpose-related name.
Important Loot: Swinetusk Shank, Corpsemaker, Tusken Helm, Heart of Agamaggan, Agamaggan’s Clutch
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the RFK, use Tips’ Classic WoW Razorfen Kraul Guide.
Scarlet Monastery – SM (26-45)
Minimum Level: 21
Recommended Level:
· Graveyard: 26-36
· Library: 29-39
· Armory: 32-42
· Cathedral: 35-45
The main school of Lordaeron’s priesthood, The Monastery was a famous bastion of hope as well as the learning and enlightening center. When undead were rising across-the-board during the Third War, this place was turned into a keep and HQ of the frantically devoted Scarlet Crusade. The Scarlet Crusade has some very… special beliefs. Each scarlet member is absolutely intolerant of all non-human and non-crusade races. Thee is a common belief that all those, who are not following the dogmas of the Crusade, must be killed and burned – because they can be potential carriers of the unstoppable magical plague.
Those who were able to get out the Monastery say that they saw the Scarlet Commander Mograine – a legendary commander with a full garrison of inhumanly devoted paladins and priests. But some of the survivors can tell you, that the monastery’s true leader is High Inquisitor Whitemane – a dreadful priestess who possesses the unbelievable power to resurrect fallen companions in arms to continue the divine battle in Crusade’s name.
I may say that Scarlet Monastery is a significant place by all means: in terms of loot, in terms of encounters, and, of course, in terms of story and lore. This place and its inhabitants play a very important role in the history of Azeroth, and each lore-interested person (especially those being paladins and priests) must know the story of the Scarlet Order. Monastery has a lot of secrets and forgotten sorrows that you have to scatter around…
Important Loot: Torturing Poker, Illusionary Rod, Ravager, Mograine’s Might, Whitemane’s Chapeau.
Chain of the Scarlet Crusade Set: Scarlet Belt, Scarlet Boots, Scarlet Chestpiece, Scarlet Gauntlets, Scarlet Leggings, Scarlet Wristguards
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the SM, use Scarlet Monastery Strategy Guide.
Razorfen Downs – RFD (40-50)
Minimum Level: 35
Recommended Level: 40-50
Razorfen Downs is grown (created?) from the same terrifying thorny vines as the famous Razorfen Kraul. Razorfen Downs is the main city (or better said, huge camp) of the quilboars. This accrescent, creepy labyrinth gives shelter to an army of loyal quilboars and their top-echelon members – the Death’s Head tribe. Nevertheless, an ominous silence fell over the quilboar’s lair.
The mighty and unstoppable Scourge – controlled by the powerful lich, Amnennar the Coldbringer – have taken advantage over the quilboar tribes and turned the complex of thorns into an undead landing point. Now there is a desperate fight between the living quilboars and undead minions inside the Razorfen Downs. Quilboars want to get back their sacred city… and bodies, before the Coldbringer will spread his will across the Barrens.
It is a great place for your adventures, and a very stylish “seizure of power”-style encounter. You’ll enjoy venturing deep into the Razorfen while discovering, that those poor boars made some HUGE mistakes and that undead boars (your group members can probably call them pigs at some point, it’s okay since you’ll hear A LOT of their death (and undead) screams) can be a formidable threat as well. I’m fond of the last boss – when I see his name I usually start acting like in a bad play – “I’m Amnennar, the Coldbringer! Behold, miserable pigs – the ICE BACON!”. Don’t try saying that in a serious manner the first time you see him. You may get infected with that “scourge style” as well!
Important Loot: Arachnid Gloves, Plaguerot Sprig, Glowing Eye of Mordresh, Glutton’s Cleaver, Robes of the Lich, Coldrage Dagger, Icemetal Barbute.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the RFD, use Razorfen Downs Strategy Guide.
Uldaman – Ulda (35-45)
Minimum Level: 30
Recommended Level: 35-45
Uldaman is one of the titan’s laboratories that was hidden deep within the earth layers since ancient times. Recently, a group of dwarven explorers dig up this titan workshop and released the titan’s failed experiments on life creation: the troggs. There is a legend, that some races like dwarves or troggs were created from stone. When titans found out that their experiment was a failure, they locked the troggs in stasis and tried to improve their former attempt. This resulted in the creation of the first dwarf. The details and all info about this process are recorded on the so-called “Discs of Norgannon” – a legendary bank of information that, according to some legends, can be found deep in the caves of Uldaman.
As your intelligence service found out, a group of Dark Iron dwarves are digging at the moment into the halls of Uldaman. They want to get the Discs and transfer them to their fiery lord Ragnaros, the God of Fire. Their actions woke up the ancient guardians, stone golems, that were guarding the secrets of Uldaman thousands of years. Such stone creatures (or mechanisms?) are ready to crush and squeeze any thief or hijacker they will find. The main hall is guarded by a massive, powerful Stonekeeper. If the legends are true, his name must be Archaedas. In case he is real, then, maybe, dwarven explorers will be able to find their stone ancestors – the earthen, that still live within the city in their secluded dwellings.
I remember this instance mostly because of its interesting place. I rarely visited Badlands, at least as I can recall, but I surely can tell you that in classic Azeroth you’ll remember it – especially those of you, who like the “exploration” theme with the dwarves. It is really interesting to discover some ancient underground city, isn’t it? Dwarves, troggs, caves, hidden artifacts, treasures, traps… It’s a true old-school adventure. You should definitely visit Uldaman!
Important Loot: Ironshod Bludgeon, Galgann’s Fireblaster, Grimlok’s Charge, Cragfists, The Rockpounder, Archaedic Stone.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Ulda, use Uldaman Strategy Guide.
Zul’Farrak – ZF (43-53)
Minimum Level: 39
Recommended Level: 43-53
There are some desert tales about the powerful weapon, a sword named Sul’thraze the Lasher, an enchanted two-handed black blade that terrify even the most mighty and monstrous enemies. According to the legend, the sword was broken apart long ago, and now its parts remain hidden somewhere in the walls of Zul’Farrak.
As for the actual news, there are some real troubles in Gadgetzan – a group of goblin traders and pickers went to the city and never came back. Currently, their state is ‘missing’. None of the adventurers or treasure hunters have volunteered for a rescue mission – it is believed that a terrible monster, even a demigod, lives in the sacred pool at the center of the city. Anyone, who will wake it, will envy the dead, so horrible his or her fate will be!
One of my favorite 5-man dungeons of all time. It’s located in Tanaris (one of the best places in Azeroth), it’s an ancient forgotten place (and we do like these), trolls (yu nou dat, mon?), shadow magic (ooh, creepy!), good loot and wonderful desert-themed music… That’s too much good stuff in one instance. You’re still here? Gather your belongings and embark on an adventure in the mysterious Tanaris!
Important Loot: Zum’rah’s Vexing Cane, Bad Mojo Mask, Jinxed Hoodoo Kilt, Gahz’rilla Scale Armor.
Sang’thraze the Deflector and Jang’thraze the Protector, when combined, create this epic two-handed sword – Sul’thraze the Lasher.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the ZF, use Zul’Farrak Strategy Guide.
Maraudon – Mara (45-55)
Minimum Level: 30
Recommended Level: 45-55
Maraudon is a sacred place, located deep within the mountains of Desolace. It is a set of caves, that lead to the burial place of Zaetar, one of Cenarius’ sons. The whole place is protected by the wild tribes of centaur, so it’s quite hard to get there, especially for an unprepared travelers.
Zaetar and the earth elemental princess (man, you should take a look at her), Theradras, created the centaur race long ago. According to the rumor, the wild and stupid centaur raged upon their father and killed him. Theradras, mourning her lover, took Zaetar’s soul with her in Maraudon – and now she’s using his energy to give life to different monstrosities from nature. When these creatures will burst out of the Maraudon, Desolace will become absolutely green and flowering… but everyone will be turned into plants or animals, just as Theradras wants. The world is waiting for a group of heroes brave enough to stop mad elemental princess and her crazy plans.
This is quite a beautiful 5-man dungeon, with all these caves, leaves, waterfalls, mad plants, that want to eat you… Yes, it’s still beautiful! But as for me, I still shiver, when I see Theradras. I do want to be tolerant and so on… but hey… Theradras. I wonder, what was Zaetar thinking, and what was he drinking? I bet it was something extra hard!
Important Loot: Blade of Eternal Darkness, Satyr’s Lash, Noxious Shooter, Heart of Noxxion, Claw of Celebras, Gizlock’s Hypertech Buckler, Fist of Stone, Princess Theradras’ Scepter, Elemental Rockridge Leggings.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Mara, use Maraudon Strategy Guide.
Temple of Atal’Hakkar – Sunken Temple (54-59)
Minimum Level: 45
Recommended Level: 54-59
Long-time ago, there was a mighty troll formation – the well-known Gurubashi Empire. During a civil war inside the Empire, a group of powerful priests, Atal’ai, were trying to summon the blood god – Hakkar the Soulflayer – into the real world. The priests were interrupted and later exiled, and the Empire destroyed itself from within. Atal’ai priests went to the north, to the gloomy and cruel Swamp of Sorrows. They build a great temple to their god there and begin their blood preparations for his arrival into Azeroth.
One of the great dragon Aspect, Ysera, discovered Atal’ai plans. She used all her flock to strike at once, and the temple was sunken. Nowadays rare travelers and alchemists, who can pass by, tell that there are only sunken ruins in the swamp, with some green dragons guarding it. But others, who were caught by night in these places, will tell you that they heard some rumbling and ritual songs from beneath the water. If this is true, then the world is in great danger…
One of the best instances for farming. It’s quite simple in terms of layout, and you can find some very good loot here, especially those epic weapons. Although, this area is quite high-level, so you need a good party to literally farm it. As for the lore, it is very interesting and enticing. You will find out who the Hakkar is, what his main intent is and much more. And the atmosphere! Being in an underwater (or should I say “under swamp ?”) temple with mad cultists and blood priests! What can be better for a fine evening?
Important Loot: Embrace of the Wind Serpent, Dragon’s Call, Firebreather, Spire of Hakkar, Blade of the Wretched, Warrior’s Embrace, Crest of Supremacy.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Sunken Temple, use Temple of Atal’Hakkar Strategy Guide.
Blackrock Depths – BRD (51-59)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 51-59
Blackrock Depths. The capital city of the Dark Iron dwarves. Can you smell some coal and burned metal? Yeap, you’re in the right place! This volcanic hole now serves as the seat of power for Ragnaros, the God of Fire. Ragnaros knows the secret of creating life from heated stone and has a plan of crafting an army of unstoppable dark golems that will conquer the whole Blackrock Mountain… and later, the world. The God of Fire is obsessed with defeating the black dragon leader Nefarian and his servants, so he will pursue any mad idea to achieve a complete and absolute domination.
Blackrock Depths is a VERY large and complicated 5-man dungeon. It’s big, hardcore and, somewhat, classic. It is so big, that there’s even an attunement for the dungeon! Can you imagine that? You can get an attunement (it’s the key form) from the Franclorn Forgewright, and it will allow you to skip the lower part of the dungeon. Use it as soon as you can, because there is no such definition as “too much attunements done” in World of Warcraft Classic.
As for the instance itself, I’m fond of it. Remember that exciting feeling of an impending doom? You’ll get yours here if you miss one. It is a great place in terms of lore and general history of Azeroth, and (just you wait) it’s one of those places where you can find the BEST items in the game for some specializations and classes! Famous and ultra-powerful Ironfoe, or the legendary Hand of Justice, as well as tons of important recipes and other loot, are waiting for you! Definitely a must-farm place for a true dungeon lover!
Important Loot: Circle of Flame, Ironfoe, Kindling Stave, Angerforge’s Battle Axe, Lord General’s Sword, Hand of Justice, The Emperor’s New Cape, Guiding Stave of Wisdom
Recipes: Formula: Smoking Heart of the Mountain, Plans: Dark Iron Pulverizer, Formula: Enchant Weapon – Fiery Weapon, Schematic: Goblin Jumper Cables XL, Plans: Dark Iron Plate
Savage Gladiator Set (Ring of Law): Savage Gladiator Helm, Savage Gladiator Chain, Savage Gladiator Leggings, Savage Gladiator Greaves, Savage Gladiator Grips
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the BRD, use Blackrock Depths Strategy Guide.
Lower Blackrock Spire – LBRS (54-60)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 54-60
Have you heard anything about the Dark Horde? About the Horde, that belongs to the fearsome Rend Blackhand? They reside in Lower Blackrock Spire, and their camps turn this once-proud halls into a conglomeration of orcish barracks. Only elite and most powerful members of the Dark Horde have Rend’s permission to live in the upper part of the “city”. All these warriors, hunters and warlocks serve to their general – Overlord Wyrmthalak – who is the ruler and the taskmaster of the Dark Horde members.
Blackrock orcs dominate the ruins in the Lower Blackrock Spire, even being divided into different legions. They are the Scarshield Legion, the Bloodshield Legion, and the Firebrand Legion. The most dangerous and elite – the Blackhand Legion – resides in Upper Blackrock Spire. Among different orc legions, travelers can find Spirestone ogres, Smolderthorn trolls, practicing warlocks, free hunters and some “natural” inhabitants of these places, like the Spire Spiders brood, who have occupied a giant corner among the ruins.
One of the most annoying 5-man dungeons for me. It has some hard bosses in it, as well as unforgiving trash monsters. Forgot to dispel something? Forgot to interrupt a summon? Was unable to see that guy running into a pack of monsters? Well, you’ll have your time in Blackrock Spire for sure, I guarantee that. And don’t forget – this dungeon is obligatory for everyone, who want to get their Blackwing Lair Attunement because it can be done only with the “help” of Overlord Wyrmthalak.
Important Loot: Mark of the Dragon Lord, Fist of Omokk, Plate of the Shaman King, Riphook, Trueaim Gauntlets, Talisman of Evasion, Smolderweb’s Eye, Rosewine Circle, Hands of Power, Rhombeard Protector, Trindlehaven Staff.
Recipes: Plans: Arcanite Reaper, Plans: Annihilator, Pattern: Robe of the Archmage.
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the LBRS, use Lower Blackrock Strategy Guide.
Upper Blackrock Spire – UBRS (54-60)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 54-60
Dungeon Size: 10 players
This in-mountain fortress has a long and complicated story. It was hollowed out by the artisans of the Dark Iron clan hundreds of years ago, and, in the end, taken by the black dragon brood and their kin.
To enter the Upper Blackrock Spire, you must have a person with Seal of Ascension in your group. It can be obtained after the Seal of Ascension questline completion. In accordance with modern PvE system, UBRS can be called a 10-ppl raid.
Important Loot: Felstriker, Blackblade of Shahram, Truestrike Shoulders, Briarwood Reed, Blackhand Doomsaw, Dal’Rend’s Sacred Charge, Dal’Rend’s Tribal Guardian, Finkle’s Skinner, Draconian Deflector
Tier 0: Class Chests, Gauntlets of Elements, Devout Mantle, Pauldrons of Elements, Spaulders of Valor, Lightforge Spaulders
Recipes and Craft Items: Chromatic Carapace, Pristine Hide of the Beast, Plans: Arcanite Champion, Pattern: Red Dragonscale Breastplate, Recipe: Flask of the Titans, Recipe: Flask of Chromatic Resistance
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the UBRS, use Upper Blackrock Spire Strategy Guide.
Dire Maul – DM (54-60)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 54-60
Queen Azshara had her personal secrets kept well. She even had a special city for that, built in accordance with all magical standards a long time ago by a group of her Highborne sorcerers – the city of Eldre’Thalas. The city was full of different magical constructs, golems, magical weapons, and arcane tomes… but it didn’t help it to stay absolutely untouched by the Great Sundering. City was heavily damaged with that terrifying event, and now its remains are known as the Dire Maul – the forgotten place with different denizens. There are 3 districts in the ruins, were the great Eldre’Thalas once was. And now they are filled up with ghosts and astral remnants of the fallen Highborne, clans of corrupted satyr and caddish ogres. Only those, who have enough skill and bravery can enter the forgotten city and try to find out, what was kept in secret in the very heart of the Eldre’Thalas treasury.
Dire Maul has an interesting “key-style” mechanic – if you have a person with a Crescent Key in your group, he or she will be able to open the West and the North wings. This key can be obtained from the little demonic fellow Pusillin in the East Wing. There is also an interesting “tribute” run, that is a very interesting thing: you can run the North Wing without killing any bosses, except the last boss, King Gordok. Such feat will require some nice sneak moves and use of a famous items such as Gordok Ogre Suit (I still remember its icon just like back in the day I got mine). If you manage to complete a clear run, you will activate the Tribute Reward a the end of the dungeon – there will be an additional chest with some powerful and useful loot.
One of the most notable 5-man dungeons in the whole game! If you ask a World of Warcraft veteran, what vivid dungeon memories she or he can recall, among the answers and the stories you will definitely find the Dire Maul. I personally can tell you, that I was chasing Pusillin with a clear killing intention. No, just imagine – I’ve just asked for a book, and this little bandit ran away! And he was running through the most nasty and “face breaking” enemies on his path… so yeah, when we finally did it to his lair, we wiped everyone there with a RAGE WHIRLWIND. Because you can’t just run away from a serious World of Warcraft traveler, that’s why! And three other memories I have are the fights with Alzzin the Wildshaper, Immol’thar and Lord Hel’nurath (but that’s my personal thing, cause I had some serious warlock business there). Nowadays players can say that this dungeon is too time-consuming, too intricate or too dull – but believe me, in World of Warcraft Classic you’ll remember your first Dire Maul run. And all the following too!
Important Loot
· East Wing: Quel’dorai Channeling Rod, Tempest Talisman, Clever Hat, Helm of Awareness, Fiendish Machete, Ring of Demonic Guile, Ring of Demonic Potency
· West Wing: Petrified Bark Shield, Mindtap Talisman, Force Imbued Gauntlets, Blade of the New Moon, Vigilance Charm, Timeworn Mace, Silvermoon Leggings
· North Wing: Unsophisticated Hand Cannon, Jagged Bone Fist, Gordok Nose Ring, Kreeg’s Mug, Monstrous Glaive, Kromcrush’s Chestplate, Cho’Rush’s Blade, Observer’s Shield, Barbarous Blade, Crown of the Ogre King, Leggings of Destruction
· Tribute Reward: Barrier Shield, Rod of the Ogre Magi, Unyielding Maul, Mindsurge Robe, Scarab Plate Helm, Counterattack Lodestone
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the DM, use Dire Maul Zone Info.
Scholomance – Scholo (57-60)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 57-60
Scholomance is a school of necromancy, that was built here after the Caer Darrow was sold by mortals. Oh, you didn’t hear that story? Or, perhaps, have forgotten? Then let me remind you about the human greed and stupidity, that cost thousands of lives… Once there was a keep of the noble family – Barov aristocracy – that had a very secluded location near the famous Andorhal city and a very wide set of underground crypts beneath it. Even more – the keep was surrounded by a lake, making it very private by all means. Caer Darrow was in a ramshackle state during the Second War but still served as was intended. Unfortunately, when the insidious Kel’thuzad was enlisting new followers for the Cult of the Damned, he laid his eyes on the keep and its surroundings. He offered immortality to everyone in exchange for loyalty to the Lich King. The nobles, Barov line, made a bargain with Kel’thuzad and contributed their keep and their family crypts to the Scourge messiah. Kel’thuzad then killed those idiots and turned their keep and its underground halls into a new school of the damned.
Kel’thuzad left Caer Darrow, but his fanatics and dark cultists remain in huge numbers. They have two overlords – one for the still-living denizens of the Scholomance, and one for their undead “colleagues”. Mortal necromancer, Darkmaster Gandling, is responsible for all educational process in this school, while the powerful lich, Ras Frostwhisper, rules the undead minions and acts as a Scourge guard.
First truly “hard” 5-man dungeon. No jokes, serious trash monsters, very good loot with some extremely useful recipes among the drop items. Two notable epic items for casters – Alanna’s Embrace and the stylish Headmaster’s Charge won’t let Scholomance lose its attractiveness for mages, warlocks and, in fact, everyone who can use those items for good. And the bosses! Despite being really powerful, some of them are also quite famous: Alexei Barov (russ… wait, what?), Doctor Krastinov (“The Doctor is in!”) and the Death Knight Darkreaver (that guy will attract thousands of paladins to Scholomance). This 5-man dungeon is also good in terms of lore and overall history – it is an important part of the undead influence (and undead campaign in general) on the whole Azeroth.
Important Loot: Alanna’s Embrace, Headmaster’s Charge, Frightalon, Barovian Family Sword, Staff of Metanoia, Iceblade Hacker, Intricately Runed Shield, Shadowy Mail Greaves, Ancient Bone Bow, Ghoul Skin Leggings, Libram of Divinity, Totem of Sustaining
Tier 0: All Helms, Boots of Valor, Dreadmist Mantle, Shadowcraft Boots, Magister’s Mantle
Necropile set: Necropile Boots, Necropile Cuffs, Necropile Leggings, Necropile Mantle, Necropile Robe
Cadaverous set: Cadaverous Armor, Cadaverous Belt, Cadaverous Gloves, Cadaverous Leggings, Cadaverous Walkers
Bloodmail set: Bloodmail Belt, Bloodmail Boots, Bloodmail Gauntlets, Bloodmail Hauberk, Bloodmail Legguards
Deathbone set: Deathbone Chestplate, Deathbone Gauntlets, Deathbone Girdle, Deathbone Legguards, Deathbone Sabatons
Recipes: Recipe: Flask of Supreme Power, Pattern: Robe of the Void, Recipe: Major Mana Potion
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Scholo, use Scholomance Strategy Guide.
Stratholme – Strat (57-60)
Minimum Level: 48
Recommended Level: 57-60
Stratholme… Once a thriving city, an emerald of northern Lordaeron, now it’s a tribute to people’s agony and death. It is the very place, where Prince Arthas Menethil abandoned his ideals and turned away from his friends and mentors: Jaina Proudmoore, Uther Lightbringer and many other good people, who wished him only best. Arthas believed, that the whole city was lost to the undead plague, spread by the Scourge agents through the corrupted grain. He and his most loyal guards killed thousands of Stratholme’s citizens and burned the city. It is the very place, where Azeroth lost Prince Arthas and instead got the King. The Lich King.
The destroyed city is now swarmed with tons of different undead creatures, who are following their subtle master – Kel’thuzad. Of course, there are some parts of the city that can be called “alive”… but they are held by a group of Scarlet Crusade fanatics, led by Grand Crusader Dathrohan. Both the Scourge and the Crusaders are locked in endless, savage fights. Those reckless enough to enter Stratholme will be attacked by both factions. The city is locked (or better say, covered) by serious massive Ziggurats, that are maintained by warlocks, necromancers, zombies, abominations, gargoyles, ghosts, and undead spiders. Maybe, there are some other monstrosities inside, but none of the travelers returned alive to tell about them… There are rumors, that in the heart of the city one can find a Death Knight residence with an immortal overlord in it – but these are only rumors, reputable hero can’t trust them. Probably.
The city has two entrances: the Alive side and the Undead side. To open the Undead side, one of your group members must possess a Key to the City, that can be obtained from Magistrate Barthilas. But he won’t just give it to you, so estimate your forces precisely. Your group can also access the Undead side going through the Living Side, but it will involve killing tons of undead monsters.
Important Loot:
· Living Side: Book of the Dead, Piccolo of the Flaming Fire, Soul Breaker, Mask of the Unforgiven, The Cruel Hand of Timmy, Redemption, Diana’s Pearl Necklace, Tome of Knowledge, Hammer of the Grand Crusader, Grand Crusader’s Helm
· Recipes: Plans: Heartseeker, Pattern: Truefaith Vestments, Righteous Orb
· Postmaster set: The Postmaster’s Band, The Postmaster’s Tunic, The Postmaster’s Treads, The Postmaster’s Seal, The Postmaster’s Trousers
· Undead Side: Deathcharger’s Reins, Runeblade of Baron Rivendare, Shadowy Laced Handwraps, Anastari Heirloom, Stoneskin Gargoyle Cape, Husk of Nerub’enkan, Chitinous Plate Legguards, Skull of Burning Shadows, Peacemaker, Idol of Brutality, Animated Chain Necklace, Ramstein’s Lightning Bolts, Skullforge Reaver, Gauntlets of Deftness, Ritssyn’s Wand of Bad Mojo
· Recipes: Plans: Hammer of the Titans, Formula: Enchant Weapon – Unholy
If you need additional information about everything and everyone inside the Strat, use both the Stratholme Undead Strategy Guide and Stratholme Alive Strategy Guide.
I guess this is it. You now know all the necessary information about every dungeon World of Warcraft Classic can offer. So, it’s time to choose yours and continue your heroic deeds. There are so many secrets and mysteries out there… See you in Azeroth, traveler!
