Can You Start Dragonflight at Level 1? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, you cannot start the Dragonflight expansion in World of Warcraft at level 1. Dragonflight requires a minimum character level of 60 to begin the introductory questline. While this might seem disappointing for brand-new players eager to explore the Dragon Isles, this level requirement ensures a smooth and engaging experience tailored for characters who have already journeyed through previous content. This article will explore why this level requirement exists and answer 15 frequently asked questions to help new and veteran players alike understand the requirements to embark on the Dragonflight adventure.
Why Level 60 is the Starting Point for Dragonflight
The level 60 requirement isn’t arbitrary. It serves as a gatekeeper ensuring players have a foundation of experience, skills, and knowledge of the game’s mechanics before entering the more advanced content of Dragonflight. This is primarily due to:
- Progression through previous expansions: World of Warcraft is an evolving game, with expansions that build upon one another. Players must typically progress through earlier expansions to understand the ongoing narrative and to build a character capable of facing new challenges. By level 60, you’ve ideally experienced a significant portion of what WoW has to offer.
- Gameplay Mechanics: The Dragonflight expansion introduces complex mechanics like Dragonriding, which requires a character to have already mastered basic movement and combat mechanics. Starting at level 1 would leave a character unprepared for this new way of navigating the world.
- Narrative Context: The events of Dragonflight follow the storyline of previous expansions, particularly Shadowlands. Reaching level 60 suggests a character has participated in and comprehended the events leading up to the dragon’s return, making the story of Dragonflight more impactful and coherent.
- Avoiding Overwhelm: Allowing a level 1 character to jump straight into a high-level expansion would be overwhelming. The expansion offers new systems, mechanics, and a significant increase in character power. A level 60 character has the necessary experience to absorb these changes effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dragonflight and Level Requirements
To help clarify any confusion and address other related concerns, we’ve compiled 15 frequently asked questions about starting Dragonflight and its level requirements:
How do I start the Dragonflight intro questline?
Once your character reaches level 60, the introductory quest, typically named “The Dragon Isles Await”, will become available. This quest will appear in your quest log automatically when you log in after purchasing the expansion. If you are having difficulty, check your “World” tab on your quest log map. This quest will take you to either Stormwind or Orgrimmar, depending on your faction, to begin your Dragonflight adventure.
Can I level to 60 without Shadowlands?
Yes, you can! If you start a World of Warcraft subscription or purchase game time, you gain access to all previous expansions up to level 60, which includes content prior to the Shadowlands expansion. You do not need to own Shadowlands to reach level 60.
Do I have to purchase Dragonflight to level past 60?
Yes, absolutely. To level beyond 60, you must own the Dragonflight expansion. If your character reaches level 60 and stops gaining experience, this means you have reached the maximum level allowed without the expansion purchase.
What level do I need to be to play Dragonflight dungeons?
For Normal and Leveling mode Dragonflight dungeons, your character needs to be level 60 or above. For Heroic, Mythic, and Mythic+ modes, you must be level 70.
Can I access the Dragon Isles at level 58 or 59?
While the initial quests to start Dragonflight require level 60, you can technically reach the Dragon Isles at level 58. However, you will not be able to progress until you reach level 60. The required quest will be unavailable until you level to 60.
How long does it take to level from 60 to 70 in Dragonflight?
The leveling time from 60 to 70 in Dragonflight varies depending on your approach. With an optimized path, it can take around 4 hours for some players. However, many players will likely take longer as they enjoy the content, explore the world, and may have interruptions. Most new players can expect to take between 8-15 hours to level to 70.
Is Dragonflight good for beginners to World of Warcraft?
Yes! Dragonflight can be a great starting point for new players. The expansion introduces players to the iconic Dragonflights as protectors of Azeroth, offering a compelling narrative. The game now also makes previous content free up to level 60 for new players.
What is the easiest class for beginners in Dragonflight?
Several classes are considered beginner-friendly in Dragonflight. Beast Mastery Hunter is often cited as the easiest due to its straightforward mechanics. Other beginner-friendly classes include Frost Mage, Devastation Evoker, Fury Warrior, and Havoc Demon Hunter.
Can a Death Knight start at level 1 in Dragonflight?
No. Death Knights are considered a “Hero Class.” They start at level 8 in their own unique starting zone, Acherus: The Ebon Hold. They must complete this starting zone before venturing into other leveling content.
What level can I learn Dragonriding in Dragonflight?
You can unlock Dragonriding after completing the first two chapters of the campaign in the Waking Shores, typically around level 61. You’ll learn from Alexstraza at the Ruby Lifeshrine.
What happens if my character is level 60 and can’t earn experience?
If your character is at level 60 and not gaining experience, it means you have not purchased the Dragonflight expansion. You need to upgrade your World of Warcraft account to continue leveling.
Do I need to play Shadowlands before Dragonflight?
No, you do not need to play through all of Shadowlands to access Dragonflight content, but owning the base game and a subscription gives you access to all content up to level 60 including Shadowlands. The narrative of Dragonflight begins after the events of Shadowlands, however, the game does not require you to be fully caught up.
Will there be Legendary items in Dragonflight?
Yes! Dragonflight Patch 10.2, Guardians of the Dream, introduces a new fiery Legendary weapon that players can collect.
Can the Dracthyr Evoker stay in human form at all times?
The Dracthyr Evoker, a new race/class hybrid introduced in Dragonflight, can be in their human form out of combat. However, during combat they will switch to their dragon form.
What is the current level cap in World of Warcraft?
The current level cap in World of Warcraft is 70, introduced with the Dragonflight expansion. This means once you reach level 70, you have reached the current level limit.
Conclusion
In summary, while starting your adventure at level 1 in Dragonflight isn’t possible, the level 60 requirement is in place for good reason. It ensures a more structured and enjoyable experience, as characters are better prepared for the challenges ahead. By understanding the pre-requisites and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth and satisfying journey into the Dragon Isles. The Dragonflight expansion awaits, promising a breathtaking new chapter in World of Warcraft’s epic story.