Even after six years, World of Warcraft is reporting it still has over 12 million paying subscribers. This milestone was reached in the wake of the mainland Chinese launch of World of Warcraft’s second expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, and also as anticipation continues for the December 7, 2010 release of the game’s third expansion, Cataclysm.
Blizzard Entertainment announced World of Warcraft on September 2, 2001. The game was released on November 23, 2004, on the 10th anniversary of the Warcraft franchise.
World of Warcraft’s Development and Impact
World of Warcraft (WoW) has had a profound impact on the gaming industry and has set numerous records since its inception. The game was developed by a team of 150 developers who managed to create an expansive world filled with 30,000 items, 5,300 NPCs (Non-Player Characters), and 7,600 quests. This level of detail and complexity was unprecedented at the time and contributed significantly to the game’s success.
The server infrastructure supporting WoW is equally impressive. It consists of 20,000 computers, 1.3 petabytes of storage, 75,000 CPU cores, 5.5 million lines of code, and 2 million words of text. The upkeep of these servers costs a staggering $136,986 per day, which is equivalent to purchasing a brand-new Audi R8 every single day. This massive infrastructure is necessary to support the millions of players who log in daily to explore the world of Azeroth.
Record-Breaking Expansions and Player Engagement
The game’s expansions have also set records. The second expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, sold 1,933 copies per minute, totaling 2.8 million copies by the end of the first day of release. This achievement made it the fastest-selling PC game of all time. The anticipation for each new expansion keeps the player base engaged and eager for new content.
Player engagement in WoW is incredibly high. On a daily basis, players complete 16.6 million quests and participate in 3.5 million auctions. These activities are not just numbers; they represent a vibrant and active community that continues to thrive even after many years. The game’s social aspects, including guilds, raids, and in-game events, contribute to its longevity and player retention.
WoW has also influenced other games and the broader entertainment industry. Its success has led to the creation of numerous spin-offs, including novels, comics, and even a feature film. The game’s lore and characters have become iconic, and its impact on popular culture is undeniable.
Moreover, WoW has been a pioneer in the realm of online gaming. It has set standards for customer support, community management, and content updates. Blizzard Entertainment’s commitment to maintaining and improving the game has been a key factor in its sustained success. Regular updates, patches, and expansions ensure that the game remains fresh and exciting for both new and veteran players.
In conclusion, World of Warcraft’s enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, depth, and the dedication of its developers and community. As the game continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of the gaming industry and a beloved pastime for millions of players worldwide.
WoW Facts
- It took only 150 developers to create 30,000 items, 5,300 NPCs, and 7,600 quests.
- The server side of WoW consists of 20,000 computers, 1.3 petabytes of storage, 75,000CPU cores, 5.5 million lines of code, and 2 million words of text.
- The server upkeep costs $136,986 per day, the same as purchasing a sparkling new Audi R8 every single day.
- The second expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, sold 1,933 copies a minute for a total of 2.8 million by the end of the first day of release, making it the fastest-selling PC game of all time.
- Players complete 16.6 million quests and participate in 3.5 million auctions each day.
Via Joystiq Via
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