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Should I Go To Northrend at 68? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is a resounding YES! You absolutely should go to Northrend at level 68. While technically you can visit Northrend at lower levels, the experience truly opens up when you hit 68. This is when the vast majority of quests become available, and you’ll start earning experience at a significantly faster rate than you would lingering in Outland. Northrend offers a fresh start, a compelling storyline, and a more efficient path to level 80. Ditch the demons and embrace the frost, adventurer!

Why Northrend at 68 is the Optimal Choice

Outland, the Burning Crusade’s primary leveling zone, starts to lose its luster around level 68. The quests become less rewarding, the experience gain slows down, and the overall environment can feel a bit…stale. Northrend, on the other hand, is designed precisely for characters from levels 68 to 80.

Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages:

Experience Efficiency: Lich King quests provide significantly more experience than equivalent Burning Crusade quests for levels 68-70. This means you’ll level faster by heading north.
Fresh Content: Northrend offers a brand new world to explore, with engaging storylines and unique challenges. It’s a welcome change of pace from the often monotonous quests in Outland.
Gear Progression: The gear you acquire in Northrend will be far superior to anything you’re likely to find in Outland at that level. This makes you stronger and better equipped to face the challenges ahead.
Access to New Professions: Northrend introduces new profession trainers and recipes. If you’re a dedicated crafter, you’ll want to get a head start on leveling your professions in the new zones.
Cold Weather Flying: While you need to be level 77 to purchase Cold Weather Flying to traverse the skies of Northrend, being in the region early allows you to start planning and saving up for it. The trainer can be found in Dalaran, located in Crystalsong Forest.

Choosing Your Starting Zone: Howling Fjord or Borean Tundra?

Northrend offers two distinct starting zones for adventurers: Howling Fjord and Borean Tundra. Both zones are designed for characters level 68-72. The best choice depends on your personal preferences:

Howling Fjord: This zone boasts a captivating storyline, a visually stunning landscape, and a more challenging questing experience. It’s generally considered to have a better narrative start.
Borean Tundra: This zone provides a more streamlined leveling experience with a higher density of quests. It’s known for being slightly faster to level through.

Many players recommend starting in Howling Fjord for the initial levels (68-70) and then moving to Borean Tundra for a faster pace to levels 70-72. However, both zones offer a path to progress that is more efficient than remaining in Outland. So it’s really your choice.

Important Considerations Before Heading North

Before you pack your bags and set sail for Northrend, keep these things in mind:

Prepare Your Gear: Make sure you have a decent set of gear before heading to Northrend. While the quests will reward you with upgrades, having a solid foundation will make the initial levels easier.
Stock Up on Supplies: Potions, food, and bandages are essential for survival in Northrend. Restock your supplies before you leave, as they can be expensive to purchase in the new zones.
Learn Your Class: Understanding your class and its abilities is crucial for success in Northrend. Take some time to practice your rotation and learn your key abilities before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Leveling in Northrend

Can I go to Northrend at 67?

Yes, you can physically travel to Northrend at level 67, but you won’t be able to accept most quests. The majority of quests in the starting zones require level 68. So while you can explore the zones, you won’t be able to level efficiently until you reach the required level.

Can I go to Northrend at 69?

Absolutely! Level 69 is a perfect level to be in Northrend. You’ll have access to all the quests in the starting zones and will be leveling at a significantly faster rate than you would in Outland.

Can you go to Northrend before 70?

Yes, you should aim to be in Northrend before level 70. As mentioned earlier, the experience gains are much better than staying in Outland.

Can you go to Howling Fjord at 68?

Yes, Howling Fjord is designed for levels 68-72. You can start questing there as soon as you hit level 68.

Should I go to Northrend at 68 or 70?

Definitely at 68. There’s no benefit to waiting until level 70. The sooner you get to Northrend, the faster you’ll level.

Is it worth doing Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord?

Yes, doing both zones is a great way to experience all that Northrend has to offer. Some players prefer to focus on one zone for leveling efficiency, while others enjoy exploring both for the variety and lore.

What level should I be in Northrend?

Ideally, you should be in Northrend from level 68 all the way to level 80. The entire continent is designed for that level range.

Can you go to Northrend at 60?

While technically possible to visit, it’s not advisable. The mobs will be far too high level for you to handle, and you won’t be able to access any of the quests. Outland is designed for levels 58-70 (approximately), and Northrend is designed for 68-80.

Can you fly in Northrend before 80?

No, you cannot fly in Northrend until you learn Cold Weather Flying. This skill can be purchased at level 77 from trainers in Dalaran or K3 (Storm Peaks). You can get to the location and get a loaner flying device to traverse Northrend and discover the Cold Weather Flying trainer.

How do I get to Northrend at 68 Alliance?

Alliance players can reach Northrend via two primary routes:

Borean Tundra: Take the boat from the northernmost dock in Stormwind Harbor.
Howling Fjord: Take the boat from Menethil Harbor in the Wetlands.

What is the fastest leveling path in Wotlk?

While questing is generally the most efficient leveling method, dungeon leveling can be faster, especially with a coordinated group. However, it relies on group composition and efficiency. Mixing questing and dungeons is a solid strategy.

How much is Cold Weather Flying in Northrend?

Cold Weather Flying costs 1000 gold. It’s an essential purchase for any player looking to efficiently navigate Northrend.

What level should I be to go to Borean Tundra?

The ideal level to start questing in Borean Tundra is 68.

Can you do both Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord?

Absolutely! Many players complete both zones to maximize their experience gains and explore the full breadth of Northrend’s content.

Should I start at Borean Tundra or Howling Fjord?

The choice is up to you! Howling Fjord offers a more engaging storyline, while Borean Tundra is generally considered to be faster for leveling. Experiment and see which one you prefer.

Embracing the Frozen Frontier: Northrend Awaits!

Northrend represents a significant step up in both challenge and reward compared to Outland at level 68. By making the journey north, you’ll be setting yourself up for a more enjoyable and efficient leveling experience. So gather your courage, prepare your gear, and set sail for the frozen wastes! Adventure awaits in the land of the Lich King. And don’t forget to check out resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for insights into the educational aspects of gaming!

Should I go Northrend at 68?