Too Late to Start WoW Classic Anniversary Now?
Time: 2025-03-07 by mmojugg Game: WoW Classic Anniversary Guide Tags: WoW Classic Anniversary
The World of Warcraft: Classic Anniversary servers will launch at the end of 2024, and in March 2025 we'll be in phase 2 - 2 months after the launch hype. If you're staring at a level 1 toon and wondering, "Did I miss out?", you're not alone. FOMO hits hard as servers age, but is it really too late to dive into this fresh vanilla run? Spoiler: No, not for most goals. Let's break down why starting now works, what you've missed (and what you haven't), and how to make it fun - whether you're here for TBC or just for the ride.
The big picture: Where we are
The Anniversary servers are on a clear path - Phase 1 (Molten Core) is complete, Phase 2 (World Bosses) is live, and Phase 3 (Blackwing Lair) drops on 20 March 2025. Four more phases follow, ending with The Burning Crusade (TBC) in late 2025 or early 2026. This isn't a one-and-done vanilla like Season of Mastery - it's the fourth new classic since 2019, and the only one confirmed for TBC. That long runway changes the 'too late' maths. Here's why it's still prime time to get in.
Reason 1: TBC is the real prize
Unlike previous fresh runs, these servers are rolling into TBC - a fan-favourite expansion that hasn't been officially playable since TBC Classic ended in 2021. If you're excited about Outland, starting now will give you 9-12 months to level, gear, and prepare. Guilds are already planning - some won't start hard until Phase 5, levelling for the 60-70 race. You've got time:
Level at your own pace: No rush - hit 60 by Phase 6 and you're set.
Gear up: AQ40 and Naxx in phases 5-6 offer top loot for the start of TBC.
Avoid burnout: Chill out now, go hard later - perfect for TBC diehards.
Missed Phase 1? No worries - TBC is the endgame here, and you're not behind yet.
Reason 2: Phases are still fresh
Phase 2's quiet world bosses are top guild turf, PvP is simmering - but Phase 3 is still a month away with BWL, Darkmoon Faire, and Rank 14. Each phase adds content:
Phase 3: BWL raiding heats up - jump in for loot or gold.
Phase 4: ZG and Mage Farming - casual fun or profit.
Phase 5-6: AQ40, Naxx epic raids and legendaries.
Starting now means you get to catch these as they roll out. The leveling rush of phase 1 is gone, but each phase after that offers new goals - raiding, PvP or just vibing. You're not late, you're just on a different beat.
Reason 3: Hardcore leveling lifeline
Worried that the leveling scene is dead? The hardcore servers (Doomhowl US, Soulseeker EU) are your solution. They're teeming with players - 16k on Doomhowl, 14k on Soulseeker - far more than raid logs show. Why start there?
Active community: Close-knit, supportive and vibrant - beats empty PvE zones.
Free transfer: Die or decide to swap? Transfer to PvE (e.g. Thunderstrike EU) for free. PvP transfers (e.g. Spineshatter) don't work yet - check your server.
Fresh Feel: Everyone's at risk, so it's launch day energy all over again.
Start on Hardcore, soak up the camaraderie, then switch if you like - leveling has never felt more alive.
What you missed (and what you didn't)
Let's face it - some Phase 1 stuff is gone:
Server firsts: World First 60s or MC Clears? Too late - those races ended months ago.
Launch chaos: The level 1-60 sprint with everyone? That ship has sailed.
But here's what you didn't miss:
Raiding: BWL, ZG, AQ, Naxx - 90% of raids are ahead.
PvP: Rank 14 opens in phase 3 - grind is just beginning.
Economy: Gold making is ripe - phase 3 investments are hot (Grave Moss, anyone?).
TBC Prep: The big payoff is a year away - you're right on time.
Phase 1 was a moment, the rest is the marathon - and you're still in it.
Why it's not too late for most people
It comes down to your goals:
Casual play: Questing, exploring, chilling - anytime. Servers are alive (73k raiders, 100k+ total players).
Raiding: BWL's next guilds need bodies, and you'll fit right in.
TBC hype: Months to prepare - start now, crush later.
Only speed freaks chasing Phase 1 glory are truly "late". For everyone else, the party's on - Phase 2 is a breather before the storm.
How to start smart
Hardcore kickoff: Level on Doomhowl or Soulseeker active zones, free PvE exit.
Pick Your Pace: Rush to 60 for BWL or take it slow for TBC - both work.
Gold Up: Farm world drops or the AH flip phase 3 consumable boom (i.e. small flame bags) is near.
No FOMO needed-jump in, find your groove, and own it.
Thanks for reading
Missed the launch? No worries - the WoW Classic Anniversary is still going strong in March 2025. Hardcore is alive and kicking, TBC is on the horizon, and Phase 3 is only a month away. Whether you're raiding now or preparing for Outland, it's not too late - your Azeroth story begins when you say it does. Thinking of jumping in? Drop us a line below - let's get started!
Table of Content
WoW Classic Anniversary Gold
Anniversary Realm Boosting