World of Warcraft Classic’s Season of Discovery Phase 5 Brings Fresh Raids And Runes

World of Warcraft Classic: Season of Discovery, continues to evolve with the release of its Phase 5 update later this month. The update goes live at 1 p.m. PDT today, promising revamped versions of fan-favorite raids, PvP incentives, and some handy quality-of-life changes.

In Season of Discovery Phase 5, players can expect the return of classic raids Blackwing Lair and Zul’Gurub, but with a spin. In Blackwing Lair, you’ll face the Trials of the Dragonflights, where optional challenges tied to the five dragonflights grant extra rewards. Prefer something smaller? Zul’Gurub lets you activate different challenges each week, and even battle Hakkar in an empowered form if you’re feeling brave.

But the biggest surprise is a brand-new raid for Classic players: The Crystal Vale in Silithus. Up to 40 players can take on Prince Thunderaan, unlocking special loot like Tier 2 belt tokens. And yes, you can battle him without needing to follow the old Thunderfury questline—good news for players itching to jump right into the action.

Phase 5 isn’t just about raids, though. PvP players will appreciate doubled honor gains, while crafters can rejoice over new profession flexibility with leatherworking and blacksmithing specializations no longer being mutually exclusive! Blizzard also threw in some convenience updates, like instantaneous mail between characters on the same account. And let’s not forget the addition of more ever-elusive Runes; 12 new Rune engravings have been scattered across the world just waiting for keen-eyed adventurers to discover them.

With new raids, buffs, runes, and more coming in this latest patch, there’s plenty to keep both raid-hungry and PvP-focused players busy.

You’ll find all the juicy details in the full patch notes here.