How Much Does a Mount Cost in WoW Classic?
The short answer? Getting your first mount in WoW Classic at level 40 will cost you a minimum of 100 gold. This breaks down into 20 gold for the riding skill and 80 gold for the mount itself. However, that’s just the baseline. This article will dive deep into the nuances of mount costs in WoW Classic, factoring in discounts, different mount types, and even the ultimate cost of those coveted epic mounts at level 60.
Understanding Mount Costs in Classic WoW
Unlike later versions of World of Warcraft, getting a mount in Classic requires a significant investment. It’s not just about reaching a certain level; it’s about accumulating enough gold, a task that often requires dedication and smart gameplay. Let’s break down the costs:
Riding Skill Training
Before you can even think about hopping on a mount, you need to learn the appropriate Riding Skill. This training is available from vendors specific to your race and faction, usually found in your faction’s capital city. The basic Riding Skill (for level 40 mounts) costs 20 gold.
Mount Purchase Price
Once you’ve learned the Riding Skill, you can purchase a mount from a mount vendor. The base cost of a rare racial mount (the type available at level 40) is 80 gold.
The Impact of Reputation
This is where things get interesting. Your reputation with your faction and specific races plays a crucial role in reducing mount costs. For example, if you are Exalted with your own race’s faction, you’ll receive a 10% discount on both the Riding Skill and the mount itself. This brings the cost down to 16 gold for the Riding Skill and 64 gold for the mount.
Level 60 Epic Mounts: A Significant Investment
While your level 40 mount is a welcome upgrade from running, the real game-changer is the level 60 Epic Mount. These mounts offer a much faster movement speed (100% increase compared to the 60% increase of level 40 mounts). However, the cost is significantly higher. The base cost for an epic racial mount is 1,000 gold. With the maximum reputation discount, this price drops to 800 gold. You’ll also need to purchase the Expert Riding Skill, which is more expensive than the basic skill.
Factors Influencing Gold Farming
Affording a mount, especially an Epic Mount, requires efficient gold farming. Several factors influence how quickly you can accumulate gold:
- Profession Choice: Herbalism and Alchemy are often considered the best professions for gold farming, as they allow you to gather and craft valuable consumables that are always in demand.
- Auction House Savvy: Understanding the Auction House and knowing which items to buy and sell can significantly increase your gold income.
- Efficient Questing: Completing quests strategically can provide a steady stream of gold and valuable items that can be sold.
- Dungeon Runs: Running specific dungeons known for their valuable drops can be a lucrative way to farm gold.
FAQs: Mounts in WoW Classic
1. Where do I learn to ride a mount in WoW Classic?
Each race has its own riding trainer, typically located in their respective capital city. Humans learn in Stormwind, Orcs in Orgrimmar, and so on. You can only learn from a trainer of your own race unless you reach Exalted reputation with another race.
2. What are the different types of mounts in WoW Classic?
In WoW Classic, mounts are primarily divided into rare (level 40) mounts and epic (level 60) mounts. Each race has its own unique set of mounts, reflecting their culture and lore. There are also rare mounts that drop from specific bosses or are obtained through special events, making them highly sought after.
3. Can I ride any race’s mount in WoW Classic?
Generally, no. You can only ride mounts from your own race or races with whom you have achieved Exalted reputation. This adds a social element to the game, as players often strive to earn reputation with other factions to access their unique mounts.
4. How does reputation affect mount costs in WoW Classic?
Reputation significantly impacts mount costs. The higher your reputation with a faction, the greater the discount you receive on mounts and riding skills. Reaching Exalted reputation grants the maximum discount, reducing the cost by 10%.
5. What is the fastest way to farm gold for a mount in WoW Classic?
There’s no single “fastest” way, as the optimal method depends on your class, level, and the current economy. However, popular methods include Herbalism and Alchemy, farming specific dungeons like Stratholme or Blackrock Depths, and flipping items on the Auction House. Understanding market trends and identifying high-demand items is key.
6. Are there any class-specific mounts in WoW Classic?
No, there are no class-specific mounts in WoW Classic like those introduced in later expansions. All races and classes can purchase the same racial mounts, provided they meet the reputation requirements.
7. What is the rarest mount in WoW Classic?
The Black Qiraji Resonating Crystal is widely considered the rarest mount in WoW Classic. It was only obtainable during the opening of the Gates of Ahn’Qiraj event, and only one player per server could acquire it.
8. How much does Master Riding cost in later WoW expansions?
While not directly related to WoW Classic, Master Riding in later expansions can cost a significant amount of gold, typically around 5,000 gold before discounts. Achieving Exalted reputation with relevant factions can reduce this cost considerably.
9. What is the difference between a rare and epic mount in WoW Classic?
The primary difference is speed. Rare mounts (level 40) increase your movement speed by 60%, while epic mounts (level 60) increase it by 100%. Epic mounts also require a higher riding skill and are significantly more expensive.
10. Can I purchase mounts from other players in WoW Classic?
No, mounts cannot be traded between players in WoW Classic. They must be purchased directly from a vendor.
11. What professions are best for making gold in WoW Classic?
Herbalism and Alchemy are often cited as the best professions for gold making. Mining and Skinning can also be profitable, especially early in the game. Ultimately, success depends on your understanding of the market and your ability to adapt to changing demands.
12. Where can I find mount vendors in WoW Classic?
Mount vendors are typically located in your race’s capital city. For example, Orcs can find their mount vendor in Orgrimmar, while Humans can find theirs in Stormwind.
13. Are there any mounts that drop from bosses in WoW Classic?
Yes, several rare mounts can drop from bosses in WoW Classic. Examples include Deathcharger’s Reins from Lord Aurius Rivendare in Stratholme and the Swift Zulian Tiger from High Priest Thekal in Zul’Gurub.
14. How important is a mount for leveling in WoW Classic?
A mount is extremely important for leveling in WoW Classic. The increased movement speed significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to complete quests and explore the world much more efficiently. Getting a mount at level 40 is a major milestone.
15. Are there any resources for learning more about WoW Classic?
Yes, there are many resources available. Websites like Wowhead offer comprehensive databases, guides, and forums. Community-driven resources like Classic WoW subreddits can also be valuable. Additionally, exploring research on the educational potential of games can provide a broader understanding of the benefits of engaging with games like WoW, as explored by the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.