How to Reset Your Covenant in Shadowlands: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve had a change of heart, or perhaps your chosen path in the Shadowlands just isn’t working out. Don’t worry, switching covenants is possible! The process, while a bit involved, allows you to explore new powers, storylines, and cosmetics. Here’s how you reset or switch your Covenant in the World of Warcraft: Shadowlands expansion.

The process differs based on whether you are switching to a new covenant or rejoining a previous one. Both scenarios require completing specific quests and demonstrating your commitment to the new (or old) path.

Switching to a New Covenant

1. Reach Renown Level 80: This is a crucial step, and it’s only required if you want to switch freely without any delay. Being Renown 80 with your current Covenant unlocks the “Threads of Fate” storyline on all other characters.

2. Travel to Oribos: Head to the main hub city of Oribos.

3. Speak to the Covenant Emissary: Located in the Enclave, you’ll find the emissaries of each Covenant. These NPCs represent the Kyrian, Venthyr, Night Fae, and Necrolords.

4. Express Your Interest: Talk to the emissary of the Covenant you wish to join. They will outline the tasks and quests you need to complete to prove your loyalty.

5. Complete the Introductory Quests: These initial quests typically involve venturing into the Covenant’s zone and performing tasks that demonstrate your dedication to their ideals. Expect things like helping residents, participating in rituals, or defeating enemies.

6. Join the Covenant: Once you’ve completed the introductory questline, you’ll be officially invited to join the new Covenant. Accept the invitation, and your Covenant will be changed. You’ll receive a new Covenant Sanctum, abilities, and a new storyline to follow.

Rejoining a Previous Covenant

Rejoining a previous Covenant is slightly different. If you’ve left a Covenant before, the process to rejoin is a bit more forgiving, but it still requires commitment.

1. Travel to Oribos: Again, your journey begins in Oribos.

2. Speak to the Covenant Emissary: Find the emissary of the Covenant you wish to rejoin in the Enclave.

3. The Covenant Will Test You: If this is your first time rejoining the Covenant, the Emissary will have you complete two weekly quests for them.

4. Complete the Covenant’s Loyalty Check: Once you’ve completed the two weekly quests, return to the Emissary, who will grant you an invitation back into the fold. This invitation starts the main questline.

5. If You Previously Left That Same Covenant Twice: A different option is available if this is the second time you’ve left a Covenant; you can pledge your loyalty, and get immediately readmitted. This action will mean that you cannot leave the Covenant again for an extended period.

6. Re-Establish Your Standing: Upon rejoining, you’ll likely need to catch up on Renown and other Covenant-specific progress.

Important Considerations

• Renown: Your Renown level does not carry over between Covenants. You’ll start at a lower Renown level and need to work your way up again.
• Soulbinds and Conduits: Soulbinds and Conduits are Covenant-specific. You’ll need to unlock and develop new Soulbinds within your new Covenant. Your old ones will remain available if you switch back.
• Sanctum Features: Each Covenant has unique Sanctum features. You’ll need to rebuild your Sanctum and progress through its upgrades to unlock its full potential.
• Cosmetics and Rewards: Covenant-specific cosmetic items, mounts, and achievements will only be accessible while you are a member of that Covenant.
• Weekly Cooldown: After switching Covenants, there is a short waiting period before you can switch again. Keep this in mind when making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens to my Soulbinds and Conduits when I switch Covenants?

Your Soulbinds and Conduits are specific to each Covenant. When you switch, you’ll lose access to the Soulbinds and Conduits from your previous Covenant, and gain access to the ones associated with your new one. The previous ones remain available if you switch back. You’ll need to unlock and upgrade Soulbinds within each Covenant individually.

2. Does my Renown level reset to zero when I change Covenants?

Yes, your Renown level is Covenant-specific and does not carry over. When you join a new Covenant, you’ll start at a lower Renown level, usually around 1, and need to progress through the Renown system to unlock rewards and abilities. If you are rejoining a Covenant, you’ll be brought back to your previous Renown level.

3. Can I switch Covenants multiple times?

Yes, you can switch Covenants multiple times, but there may be a waiting period or cooldown between switches. This cooldown prevents players from constantly hopping between Covenants for short-term gains. You also may be limited to the amount of times you can leave a specific Covenant, requiring an immediate pledge that locks you in for the extended period of time.

4. Will I lose any rewards or achievements I earned with my previous Covenant?

No, you won’t permanently lose any rewards or achievements. However, you will only have access to Covenant-specific rewards, such as cosmetic items, mounts, and achievements, while you are a member of that Covenant. If you switch back, you’ll regain access to those rewards.

5. What happens to my Anima and Reservoir when I switch Covenants?

Your Anima stored in the Covenant Reservoir does not transfer. You’ll need to rebuild your Anima supply within your new Covenant. It’s often a good idea to spend your Anima before switching to minimize waste.

6. Are there any restrictions on which Covenants I can join?

No, there are no class or race restrictions on which Covenants you can join. You are free to choose the Covenant that best suits your playstyle, aesthetic preferences, or lore interests.

7. How long does it take to reach Renown 80 in a Covenant?

The time it takes to reach Renown 80 varies depending on your activity level and the availability of Renown catch-up mechanics. With dedicated play, you can reach Renown 80 in a few weeks, especially with the catch-up systems in place.

8. What happens if I fail the Covenant’s loyalty check when rejoining?

If you fail the Covenant’s loyalty check, you’ll likely need to wait longer before you can attempt to rejoin. The requirements for the loyalty check may also become more stringent. If you want to ensure that the Covenant re-admits you, it might be a good idea to complete the immediate pledge to prevent future abandonment.

9. Can I change Covenants while in a raid or Mythic+ dungeon?

No, you cannot change Covenants while in a raid or Mythic+ dungeon. You need to be in a rested area, such as Oribos or your Covenant Sanctum, to initiate the Covenant change process.

10. How do I know which Covenant is best for my class and specialization?

Researching the abilities and Soulbinds of each Covenant is essential. Numerous resources, such as guides and community discussions, can help you determine which Covenant offers the best synergy with your class and specialization.

11. Does the Covenant Sanctum stay in its current state when I switch back?

Yes, your Covenant Sanctum will remain in its current state of development when you switch back to a previous Covenant. Your progress and upgrades will be preserved, allowing you to pick up where you left off.

12. Is there a cost associated with switching Covenants?

There is no gold or currency cost directly associated with switching Covenants. However, you might need to spend resources like Anima to rebuild your Sanctum and progress through the Covenant’s storyline.

13. Can I switch to a Covenant just to complete a specific quest or achievement?

Yes, you can switch Covenants to complete specific quests or achievements, but keep in mind the cooldown period before you can switch again. If this is your second time abandoning a Covenant, keep in mind the limitations of the “immediate pledge” option.

14. How do I unlock the “Threads of Fate” storyline?

To unlock the “Threads of Fate” storyline, you need to reach Renown 80 with any Covenant on at least one character on your account. This allows subsequent characters to skip the main Shadowlands campaign and choose their Covenant early on.

15. Is it worth switching Covenants if I’m not happy with my current one?

It depends on your priorities. If you’re significantly unhappy with your Covenant’s abilities, storyline, or aesthetic, then switching might be worthwhile, even with the Renown grind. If you’re only mildly dissatisfied, carefully weigh the pros and cons before making the switch. Consider also that you’re making a second switch, which could cause permanent abandonment if you’re not careful.

Switching Covenants in Shadowlands is a significant decision, but understanding the process and its implications will help you make the best choice for your character and gameplay experience. Good luck on your journey through the Shadowlands!