From Abandoned Roots to Flourishing Jungle: The Evolution of World of Warcraft’s Harandar
The development of a World of Warcraft expansion is a complex process, filled with evolving ideas and sometimes, silent discards. Recently, datamining efforts have revealed a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes – the story of Harandar, a region initially intended for The War Within, but ultimately finding its place in the Midnight expansion.
A Hidden Origin in Khaz Algar
Blizzard’s initial plans for Harandar during the creation of The War Within were ambitious. Discovered information suggests the area was considered as a major region within Khaz Algar, or as significant post-launch content. However, these plans shifted early in development, leading to Harandar’s complete removal from the expansion’s map. Despite this, remnants – references, geographical connections, and design elements – survived within the game files, hinting at the abandoned concept.
Marlamin’s Discovery: The “Rootlands” Prototype
Dataminer Marlamin, along with other community members, unearthed an early prototype of Harandar, internally labeled Rootlands. This discovery provides insight into Blizzard’s iterative design process. Key findings include a significantly smaller zone size compared to the final version, a direct connection to Sanctum, suggesting it would have served as a secondary access point to Azj-Kahet, and an overall structure fitting within a broader The War Within development map.
A Complete Redesign: From Generic Cave to Living World
The analysis of the prototype revealed a stark contrast between the original Harandar and the version players will experience in Midnight. The early iteration lacked the rich narrative and recognizable elements like the multiple World Trees. It appeared as a simple subterranean region, lacking a distinct identity. In contrast, the Midnight version has been substantially expanded in scale, boasting a strong visual and narrative identity, and retaining only core concepts like the root-themed environment and the Haranir race.
This suggests a complete creative overhaul, with the prototype serving as inspiration rather than a foundation.
Why the Shift to Midnight?
While Blizzard hasn’t provided an official explanation, the move to Midnight likely stemmed from strategic design decisions. These may have included adjusting the narrative pacing of the saga, reserving compelling ideas for future expansions, and avoiding overcomplicating The War Within with too many complex zones.
The result appears positive, as Marlamin notes the final version of Harandar is far more extensive, rich, and coherent than its initial concept.
The Haranir: Guardians of the Rootways
The Haranir themselves are a reclusive humanoid race residing in Harandar, a primordial jungle where the roots of the World Trees converge. First encountered during the war against Xal’atath, they protect the great roots growing into the area. They are now a fully-fledged Allied Race, available to both Horde and Alliance players, and uniquely capable of playing as Druids.
Players can unlock the Haranir by progressing through the Midnight campaign, learning about their history and exploring their homeland. Customization options include bioluminescent paint patterns on their faces and bodies.
Haranir Class Options
The Haranir can play the following classes: Druid, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warlock, or Warrior.
Harandar’s Unique Features
Harandar is described as a dangerous fungal jungle aglow with bioluminescence, nestled amidst the roots of the World Trees. Within Harandar, a spell can be cast near a world tree’s roots to travel between them. The Haranir are led by a council of elders and serve as ancient guardians of the rootways, watching over the domains of their long-absent goddess.
FAQ
Q: What is Harandar?
A: Harandar is a new zone in World of Warcraft: Midnight, a primordial jungle where the roots of the World Trees converge.
Q: Who are the Haranir?
A: The Haranir are a reclusive humanoid race native to Harandar, now available as an Allied Race.
Q: Can Haranir be Druids?
A: Yes, Haranir are the only race that can play as Druids.
Q: How do I unlock the Haranir?
A: By playing through the Midnight campaign.
Explore the wilds of Harandar and uncover the secrets of the Haranir in World of Warcraft: Midnight. Learn more about the Haranir here.
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