Does Buying WoW Come with a Free Month?
The question of whether purchasing World of Warcraft (WoW) grants a free month of game time is a common one, especially for new and returning players. The short answer is: it depends on what you’re buying. The rules have changed over time, so it’s important to understand the current situation. In the past, the initial WoW Battle Chest often included a free month, but this is not the standard offering today. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Generally, simply purchasing the base game or the latest expansion like Dragonflight doesn’t automatically grant you a free month of game time. However, there are specific circumstances and offers where you can receive free game time. For instance, the Dragonflight expansion is known to sometimes include 30 days of game time. This is a special offer, and may not always be available. Additionally, new players are able to play for free up to level 20, allowing them to try out the game before investing in a subscription.
Therefore, while it isn’t the norm to get a free month simply by buying the game or expansion, it is important to look carefully at the purchase details, or if you are a returning player and meet the conditions of Blizzard’s temporary offers that they will sometimes provide. Always verify the product details and promotional offers at the time of purchase to know if you qualify for bonus game time.
Understanding WoW Subscriptions and Game Time
To play the full game experience, including content beyond level 20 in the modern version of WoW and all of WoW Classic, you need either a subscription or game time. A subscription is typically recurring, billed monthly, while game time is a one-off purchase that grants access for a set period.
How Subscriptions Work
WoW offers several subscription options:
- One-month subscription: Billed at $14.99 per month.
- Three-month subscription: Billed at $13.99 per month.
- Six-month subscription: Billed at $12.99 per month.
- Twelve-month subscription: Billed every 12 months and provides continuous access to the game.
Choosing a longer subscription duration typically offers a lower monthly rate. You can also purchase game time in increments such as 30 days or 60 days. These options provide flexibility based on your playstyle and budget.
Free Trial and Returning Player Opportunities
Blizzard offers a free trial that allows players with a Battle.net account to experience the game up to level 20. This is a great way for new players to see if WoW is for them before committing to a subscription. Additionally, if you let your subscription lapse, your account reverts to a free trial state where you can log in and play up to level 20.
Occasionally, Blizzard will offer returning players free game time, often to encourage them to check out new content or expansions. These offers are usually limited-time events, so it’s worth keeping an eye on official WoW news and announcements. For example, Blizzard has given 3 days of free game time to players who haven’t logged in for a while, giving them a chance to experience the latest content like the Dragonflight expansion.
FAQs: Your WoW Subscription Questions Answered
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional clarity on WoW subscriptions, free game time, and related topics:
1. Can I play WoW completely free?
Yes, modern World of Warcraft is free to play up to level 20. This allows you to explore the game’s basics and some of its starting areas. However, to play beyond level 20 or access WoW Classic, you’ll need a subscription or game time.
2. How much does a WoW subscription cost?
The cost varies depending on the subscription length:
- One-month: $14.99/month
- Three-month: $13.99/month
- Six-month: $12.99/month
- Twelve-month: Billed every 12 months.
3. Does buying the Dragonflight expansion grant free game time?
Sometimes. It’s common for the Dragonflight expansion to include 30 days of game time, but this isn’t always guaranteed. Always check the product description at the time of purchase to confirm.
4. Can I play the latest content without buying the expansion?
No. To access the newest zones, reach the new level cap (currently 70), and engage with the most current expansion features, you will need to purchase the Dragonflight expansion.
5. Can I play WoW Classic with a free trial account?
No, to access any WoW Classic realms (including Wrath Classic), you need to have an active subscription or game time. The free trial is only for the modern version of the game up to level 20.
6. What happens if I cancel my subscription?
Your account will revert to a free trial account, limiting you to characters up to level 20. You will not have access to content beyond that level or the Classic versions of the game.
7. How do I buy game time for someone else?
You can gift a subscription through the Battle.net website. Select the subscription length you want to gift, enter the recipient’s email, your email, and payment information, and optionally add a personal message.
8. How can I play WoW for free in 2023?
The free trial allows you to play up to level 20 without any cost. You can also look for limited-time offers from Blizzard that sometimes include free game time, especially for returning players.
9. Why does WoW have a monthly fee?
The monthly fee allows Blizzard to maintain the game’s servers, continually update the game with new content, balance the game, and continue developing future expansions.
10. Is WoW still worth playing in 2023?
Yes, many players continue to enjoy WoW in 2023 due to its rich content, updates, engaging storylines, and large community.
11. How many people play WoW in 2023?
In 2023, around 5.6 million players actively engage with the game each month, demonstrating a robust and active community.
12. Is WoW cheaper now than it was in 2004?
Yes, considering inflation, the current subscription cost of $15 a month is actually lower than it was in 2004. Inflation adjusted, it would be around $20 now.
13. Why is WoW down every Tuesday?
Tuesday is typically server maintenance day. This ensures the game is running smoothly, receives important updates, and minimizes disruption during peak playing hours.
14. Can you pay for WoW with Blizzard balance?
Yes. You can use your Blizzard Balance to purchase game time or a subscription if you have sufficient funds available.
15. Can I play WoW without game time or a subscription?
Yes, you can play the free trial version, but it is limited to level 20. To access higher-level content, participate in expansions, or play WoW Classic, you need either game time or a subscription.
Conclusion
While purchasing World of Warcraft doesn’t always guarantee a free month of game time, there are several opportunities to try the game for free or receive bonus time through specific promotions, such as those included with the purchase of Dragonflight expansion. Always check the specifics of the product you are buying. Understanding the different subscription options and keeping an eye out for limited-time offers will ensure that you get the best value for your money and enjoy everything World of Warcraft has to offer. Whether you are a new player or returning after some time away, WoW is a game that continues to have an incredible community for those that enjoy its unique and immersive world.