How to Play Classic and Retail WoW Simultaneously: A Comprehensive Guide
The burning question for many World of Warcraft enthusiasts is: Can you play Classic and Retail WoW at the same time? The short answer is no, not on the same account. While both versions of the game are accessed through the same Battle.net account and require a single subscription, you cannot run two instances of the game simultaneously using just one account. This limitation is in place for technical and business reasons, but there are workarounds. This article will explore the reasons behind this restriction and provide a detailed guide on how to enjoy both beloved versions of WoW concurrently.
Understanding the Limitations
Why One Account, One Instance?
The primary reason you can’t play Classic and Retail simultaneously on the same account lies in the way Blizzard manages access. Both Classic and Retail versions are tied to the same network and use a shared access key. Think of it like this: you have a key to a building (your WoW account). You can’t use that single key to enter two doors (Classic and Retail) at the same time. To access both simultaneously, you need a second key or, in this case, a second WoW account.
Blizzard’s Perspective on Multiple Accounts
Blizzard has no issues with players operating multiple accounts. In fact, they have designed the system to accommodate this, understanding that some players will want to experience both game versions (and others might enjoy multi-boxing, which involves controlling multiple characters simultaneously). However, this comes with the necessity of paying for a second subscription. Blizzard earns revenue from each active subscription, so having to pay for two accounts ensures that they are compensated for the added use of their servers.
Technical Restrictions
Beyond the business model, technical limitations are in place to prevent conflicts and maintain server stability. Running two instances of the same account would potentially create issues with login procedures, data synchronization, and other aspects of the game’s infrastructure. The system is explicitly designed to disallow concurrent logins from the same account.
How to Play Both Simultaneously
The Need for a Second Account
To enjoy both Classic and Retail WoW at the same time, you absolutely need to have a second WoW account. This means purchasing another copy of the game and subscribing to another game time plan.
Step-by-Step Process
- Create a New Battle.net Account (If Needed): If you don’t already have a second Battle.net account, create one. This new account will host your second WoW subscription.
- Purchase Another WoW Copy: Log in to your new Battle.net account and purchase another copy of World of Warcraft. This purchase typically grants access to both Retail and Classic versions.
- Subscribe to Game Time: Add game time or a recurring subscription to your new WoW account. This is the key to accessing the game past level 20 and enjoying all its features.
- Install WoW on your Machine: Install the game on your machine. Both Retail, Classic Era and Wrath of the Lich King Classic are all installed via the same launcher, but you need to choose which version to install. They are separate installations.
- Run Two Battle.net Apps: You must run two instances of the Battle.net app, each logged in to a different account. To do this, go to your Battle.net App settings and enable “Allow multiple instances of Battle.net app”. This will let you launch the app twice, each using a different set of account details.
- Launch Your Game Instances: Through each Battle.net App instance, launch your WoW accounts. You can now play simultaneously on your Classic and Retail accounts.
Benefits of Multiple Accounts
Having a second WoW account opens up several possibilities, including:
- Playing both versions simultaneously: Enjoy the unique experiences of both Classic and Retail WoW whenever you want.
- Trading with Yourself: Use the neutral Auction House to transfer items or gold between your accounts.
- Additional Storage: Utilize the second account as extra storage space with multiple character slots.
- Guild Management: Add your own characters to your guild without needing another person’s help.
- Multi-boxing: If desired, this opens the door to multi-boxing and having more control over your gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs that clarify various aspects of playing both Classic and Retail WoW:
1. Is Access to WoW Classic Free if You Have Retail?
Yes, access to WoW Classic is included with an active World of Warcraft subscription. There’s no extra purchase required to play Classic if you have a subscription.
2. Do I Need to Install WoW Classic Separately?
Yes, Modern World of Warcraft (Retail), WoW Classic, and Wrath of the Lich King Classic are all installed separately through the Battle.net desktop app. Each game version needs its own dedicated installation.
3. Can You Play WoW Classic with Game Time?
Yes, adding game time or a subscription to your WoW account enables you to play past level 20 in Retail, and grants unrestricted access to WoW Classic and Wrath Classic.
4. Why Can’t I Play WoW Classic and Retail Simultaneously?
Your Classic and Retail accounts are tied together at a network level. The system does not allow for two concurrent instances of the game using the same account.
5. Can You Transfer a Character From Classic to Retail?
No, character transfers are only allowed between Classic Era realms. You cannot transfer a character from Classic to Retail, to another account, or to Wrath of the Lich King Classic.
6. Can You Play Two Blizzard Games at the Same Time?
Yes, if you have multiple Battle.net accounts. You need to enable “Allow multiple instances of Battle.net app” in the app settings to run multiple Battle.net clients at once.
7. Why Have Multiple WoW Accounts?
Multiple accounts allow for simultaneous play, trading with yourself, extra storage, guild management, and the possibility of multi-boxing.
8. Is Classic WoW Fun Solo?
Yes, Classic WoW can be fun solo, especially with questing and some other activities. However, many of the key activities like raids and battlegrounds are better with groups.
9. Is Classic WoW Better Than Retail for Beginners?
Both versions are great. Classic has a slower pace, which can be less stressful but also more time-consuming. Retail lets you jump into the action more quickly, with more variety of content.
10. What’s the Point of Playing WoW Classic?
WoW Classic allows players to experience the game as it was in its original vanilla form, albeit with some modern enhancements. It provides a nostalgic and different gameplay experience.
11. Are More People Playing Classic or Retail WoW?
Retail has a significantly larger player base than Classic. Classic has approximately 20% of the player count of Retail, according to online data.
12. Why Do People Play Classic Instead of Retail?
Classic emphasizes the leveling experience and social interactions, while retail focuses on endgame content. The game experience differs drastically, offering an alternative experience.
13. Is It Worth Playing WoW Classic in 2023?
Yes, for those who appreciate the classic gameplay style and slower pace, Classic is worth playing in 2023. It continues to have a dedicated fanbase.
14. Are Professions Worth It In Classic WoW?
Yes, professions are crucial in Classic WoW for gearing up while leveling and creating rare and essential items.
15. Which Class is Best for Solo Leveling in Classic?
Hunters and Mages are often considered the strongest solo leveling classes in Classic due to their ability to kill mobs efficiently and maintain safety.
Conclusion
While playing Classic and Retail WoW on the same account simultaneously is not possible, Blizzard provides a clear pathway to enjoying both versions of the game. By creating a second Battle.net account and purchasing another subscription, you unlock the ability to play both beloved versions concurrently, expanding your World of Warcraft experience to new heights. The slight extra cost is well worth it for dedicated WoW fans who wish to experience the best of both worlds.