Can Level 70 Fly in Northrend? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: No, a level 70 character cannot fly in Northrend without specific conditions. Prior to Patch 4.0.1, flying in Northrend was restricted. While level 70 characters can certainly travel to Northrend, accessing the skies requires additional steps. Let’s delve into the specifics and explore how, and when, you can soar above the icy landscapes.
Understanding Cold Weather Flying
The key to understanding flight in Northrend lies in a skill called Cold Weather Flying. This skill is what allows characters to use their flying mounts within the Northrend zones. Without it, you’re stuck traversing the ground, vulnerable to the elements and slower travel times.
The Level Requirement Hurdle
Initially, Cold Weather Flying was only trainable at level 77. This meant that even if you had a flying mount and the necessary riding skill, you couldn’t take to the skies in Northrend until reaching level 77. This forced players to endure ground travel for a significant portion of their leveling journey in the continent.
The Tome of Cold Weather Flight: A Game Changer
The introduction of the Tome of Cold Weather Flight provided an alternative. This tome allows characters level 68 and above to learn Cold Weather Flying without needing to reach level 77. However, there’s a catch. The tome can only be purchased by a character level 80 (originally) who already knows Cold Weather Flying and is on the same realm, faction, and account. This means that the level 80 character needs to buy the tome and then send it to their lower-level alt. Once the level 68+ character learns the tome, they can then train Cold Weather Flying and take to the skies! Patch 4.0.1 lowered the level requirement to 68 and the price to 500.
Getting to Northrend at Level 70
While flying might be restricted, traveling to Northrend at level 70 is entirely possible and, for many, desirable.
Choosing Your Faction’s Starting Zone
- Alliance: Alliance players can reach Northrend via boats from Stormwind Harbor (to Borean Tundra) or Menethil Harbor in the Wetlands (to Howling Fjord).
- Horde: Horde players can take zeppelins from Orgrimmar (to Warsong Hold in Borean Tundra) or Undercity (to Vengeance Landing in Howling Fjord).
Both zones are designed for players around levels 68-72, making level 70 the perfect sweet spot to dive into Northrend’s quests and storylines.
The Benefits of Early Arrival
While you can start questing in Outland or Northrend, Northrend quests often offer better rewards and experience for characters at levels 68-72. Plus, exploring the new zones, encountering the unique creatures, and immersing yourself in the lore can be an exciting change of pace. Games like World of Warcraft can be a great way to learn about history and culture, as discussed by the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
FAQs: Flying in Northrend Explained
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of flying in Northrend:
1. Can I fly in Northrend at level 68?
Yes, but only if you have a level 80 character on the same realm, faction, and account who can purchase the Tome of Cold Weather Flight and send it to your level 68 character. You also need the gold required to buy the Cold Weather Flying skill once you’ve learned the tome.
2. What level do I need to be to buy Cold Weather Flying?
You need to be at least level 68 to learn the Tome of Cold Weather Flight. Otherwise, the regular skill is trainable at level 77.
3. How much does Cold Weather Flying cost?
The Cold Weather Flying skill itself costs 1000 gold. Also, factor in the cost of a flying mount and the appropriate riding skill if you don’t already have them. Patch 4.0.1 lowered the level requirement to 68 and the price to 500.
4. Can a Druid use Flight Form in Northrend at level 70?
Only if the Druid has learned Cold Weather Flying, either through the Tome of Cold Weather Flight or by reaching level 77. Flight Form counts as a flying mount once the skill is learned.
5. What happens if I try to fly in Northrend without Cold Weather Flying?
You simply won’t be able to use your flying mount. The game will prevent you from taking off.
6. Is it worth going to Northrend at level 68?
Generally, yes. The quests in Northrend offer good experience and gear for that level range. However, if you are still enjoying Outland, feel free to stay a bit longer.
7. Can I get a boost to level 70 and then fly in Northrend?
The Northrend Heroic Upgrade includes a Level 70 Character Boost which will get a single non-Death Knight character instantly ready to adventure in Northrend. You will still not be able to fly in Northrend. You will still need to level up or have Tome.
8. If I have a level 80, can I send Cold Weather Flying to my level 68 alt on a different realm?
No. The Tome of Cold Weather Flight can only be transferred to a character on the same realm, faction, and account.
9. Do I need to have flying in Outland before going to Northrend?
While it’s not strictly required, having flying in Outland makes the leveling process significantly faster and more enjoyable. It also gives you a head start when you finally can fly in Northrend. The mount flying skill carries over between expansions.
10. Where do I learn Cold Weather Flying?
If you’re level 77 or higher, you can learn Cold Weather Flying from trainers in major Northrend cities like Dalaran, K3 in Storm Peaks, or at specific faction hubs. For example, “Honest” Max at K3 in Storm Peaks at /way 40.6 84.6 will give you a flying mount to use, if you are at least level 77 and do not yet have Cold Weather Flying.
11. Can I use a boosted character to buy the Tome and send it to another alt?
Yes, if your boosted character is level 80 and on the same realm, faction, and account as the alt, you can purchase the Tome of Cold Weather Flight and send it.
12. What are the best zones to level in at level 70 in Northrend?
Howling Fjord and Borean Tundra are the starting zones. Howling Fjord is a great place for beginners to Northrend.
13. Can I still get the Loaned Gryphon Reins if I’m below level 77?
No, the Loaned Gryphon Reins are designed for players who are at least level 77 but haven’t yet purchased Cold Weather Flying.
14. Does Cold Weather Flying increase my flying speed?
No, Cold Weather Flying simply allows you to use your flying mount in Northrend. Your flying speed is determined by your riding skill and mount.
15. What is the minimum level to enter Northrend?
You can enter Northrend at level 68, but you will not have access to every feature of Northrend. Quests only become available once you hit 68.
Conclusion: Prepare for Your Northrend Adventure
While level 70 characters face restrictions on flying in Northrend, it’s still an excellent level to begin your journey in this exciting continent. By understanding the requirements for Cold Weather Flying and planning accordingly, you can maximize your leveling efficiency and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Wrath of the Lich King. Remember to utilize ground mounts and the various transportation options available until you can take to the skies. Happy adventuring!