Why Can’t I Access the Runecarver? A Comprehensive Guide to Shadowlands Crafting
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The Runecarver, a pivotal figure in the Shadowlands expansion of World of Warcraft, allows players to craft powerful Legendary items. If you’re struggling to access this essential NPC, the reason likely stems from not fulfilling the required prerequisites. In short, you can’t access the Runecarver because you haven’t completed the necessary questlines and met the level and covenant requirements of the Shadowlands expansion. Understanding these requirements is key to unlocking the full potential of your character.
Unlocking the Runecarver: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
To gain access to the Runecarver, you must navigate several steps within the Shadowlands expansion. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each:
1. Leveling and Entering the Shadowlands
First and foremost, your character needs to be at least level 50 to enter the Shadowlands. Level 60 provides for a more streamlined experience. Accessing the Shadowlands expansion requires owning the expansion itself, which gives you access to the main storyline and activities. Without the Shadowlands expansion, the Runecarver’s content is locked.
2. The Covenant Campaign: Your Gateway to Torghast
After reaching the Shadowlands, you’ll be introduced to the four Covenants: Kyrian, Venthyr, Necrolord, and Night Fae. You must choose a covenant to progress with the campaign, and while you can change Covenants later, the initial choice is crucial for unlocking the Runecarver. You need to complete the first chapter of your chosen Covenant Campaign. This chapter will lead you down a path, which introduces the realm’s politics and conflicts.
3. Intro to Torghast: The Runecarver’s Prison
The first chapter of your chosen Covenant Campaign will eventually guide you to Torghast, Tower of the Damned. This is where the Runecarver is imprisoned. Completion of the first part of the intro quests is necessary. If the introduction is not finished, the Runecarver cannot be used.
4. Freeing the Runecarver: Completing the Initial Quests
Within Torghast, you’ll embark on quests aimed at rescuing the Runecarver. The quest lines include Deep Within, Ashes of the Tower, and The Final Pieces. During this process, you’ll likely need to collect Soul Ash, a resource found within Torghast, to progress the quest line. You will need to search for Baine. After the quest turn-in, the next quest will appear from Ve’nari. This begins a short quest chain to free the Runecarver.
5. Unlocking Runecarving: Leveling your Crafting Profession
Finally, to access the crafting recipes for the base items used in creating Shadowlands legendary items, your character needs to have earned 100 skill level in the crafting profession. If you have not completed this stage, you will not have access to all of the Runecarver’s services.
Other Potential Issues and Troubleshooting
Even if you’ve completed the above steps, there might be other reasons why you can’t access the Runecarver. Here are some things to check:
- Quest Phasing: Sometimes, certain quests can cause phasing issues, preventing you from seeing the Runecarver. Try abandoning any related quests and restarting them. If you have completed the Crown of Wills, finish the Reality’s Doorstep quest given by Bolvar. This will remove any phasing issues.
- Game Bugs: While rare, game bugs can occur. Reporting any persistent issues to Blizzard Support can help identify and resolve these problems.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your game client is fully updated. Outdated clients can sometimes cause discrepancies that prevent access to certain content.
- Borrowed Power: Be aware that borrowed power mechanics like Shadowlands Legendaries and Covenant abilities are often disabled outside of the intended zones.
FAQ: Runecarver Access Problems Solved
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the Runecarver access process:
1. How do I unlock Runecarving in Shadowlands?
You need to reach level 50 (preferably level 60), complete the introduction to Torghast, and have 100 skill in a relevant crafting profession. Choosing a Covenant is also mandatory.
2. How do I start the Runecarver questline?
The questline starts automatically after selecting your Covenant and beginning your journey into the Shadowlands. Bolvar Fordragon will guide you through the initial steps.
3. Can I skip the Runecarver questline?
Yes, sometimes the questline can be skipped. When you return to Bolvar in Oribos after choosing your covenant and being there, turn in the quest but don’t take the next one from Bolvar. Close the quest window and then talk to Bolvar again. He then has the option to skip ahead to the Runecarver.
4. I’ve completed the quests; why can’t I see the Runecarver?
Check for quest phasing issues. Abandon any related quests and restart them. Also, finishing the Reality’s Doorstep quest may resolve phasing issues.
5. What crafting professions are needed for Runecarving?
The Runecarver utilizes crafted base items from professions such as Leatherworking, Tailoring, Blacksmithing, and Jewelcrafting. You must level one of these.
6. What is Soul Ash, and how do I get it?
Soul Ash is a resource obtained from Torghast used to craft and upgrade Legendary items. Clearing floors of Torghast awards Soul Ash.
7. What happened to the Runecarver in the Shadowlands story?
The Runecarver was imprisoned in Torghast and manipulated by the Jailer, who extracted his knowledge to create weapons and armor for the Mawsworn.
8. Is the Runecarver the Jailer or the Primus?
There have been theories. As of now, the Runecarver is most likely the Primus of Maldraxxus.
9. Are Shadowlands Legendaries disabled outside of Shadowlands?
Yes, generally, Shadowlands Legendaries are disabled or significantly nerfed outside of Shadowlands zones in later expansions.
10. How much does Soul Ash cost to craft a Legendary?
The Soul Ash cost varies depending on the rank of the Legendary. Ranks can range from 1250 to 3200 Soul Ash.
11. What is the max level for a Legendary in Shadowlands?
Legendary items could be upgraded to Rank 7, iLevel 291 in Patch 9.2.
12. What are Vestiges of Origins?
The Vestige of Origins is an optional reagent to upgrade the base Shadowlands Legendary item to a higher item level.
13. Can I wear two Legendaries in Shadowlands?
Yes, in Patch 9.2, after completing Chapter 7 of the Zereth Mortis Campaign, players could equip two Legendary items.
14. What happens if I destroy a Legendary?
You will get a refund of the Soul Ash, Soul Cinder, and Cosmic Flux you spent on it.
15. What if I have no access to Shadowlands?
Without the Shadowlands expansion, you cannot access the Runecarver or craft Legendaries from that expansion.
Conclusion: Mastering the Runecarver and Legendary Crafting
Gaining access to the Runecarver requires commitment to the Shadowlands narrative and a willingness to engage with its core mechanics. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to unlocking the power of Legendary crafting and enhancing your character’s capabilities. Remember, mastering the Runecarver is not just about acquiring powerful gear, it’s about understanding and experiencing the story that World of Warcraft has to offer.
For more information on game-based learning and educational applications of gaming, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, a community dedicated to exploring the intersection of games and education. We believe games can offer immersive and engaging ways to learn and develop critical thinking skills. And, if you are still curious, find additional resources on the Games Learning Society website located here: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.