Undermine(d): The Introduction of Drivable and Driftable Vehicles in World of Warcraft’s Latest Update

One of the key developers behind Undermine(d) is here to chat about the newest addition to World of Warcraft. Imagine a city that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen in Azeroth—it’s energetic, alive, and its streets invite you to speed through in fresh, hot rods. Let’s delve into this exciting new chapter where driving and drifting are the norms.

Picture New York City with a steampunk twist, where safety takes a backseat. That’s the vibe of Undermine, the latest zone introduced in World of Warcraft. It went live this week, and as someone who played a major part in designing this area alongside my talented team, I’m excited to share more about this unique goblin city and its zany vehicles.

This new update features the D.R.I.V.E. system, short for Dynamic and Revolutionary Improvement to Vehicular Experiences. And yes, we know the acronym’s a mouthful, but it’s cool, right?

Now, players can dart around with the G-99 Breakneck, WoW’s version of a hot rod. You’ll earn this quirky ride early on by completing the “Eyes from Above” mission, then transitioning to “No More Walkin’ Here” for a tutorial on your new set of wheels.

We drew inspiration for these cars from the World of Warcraft goblins’ aesthetic—everything looks cobbled together but cleverly so. The G-99 Breakneck, with its over-the-top features like flames roaring from the hood, perfectly complements Undermine’s chaotic streets.

Drifting was a deliberate addition, reminiscent of classic racing games. Integrating it into World of Warcraft was challenging but sparked lots of excitement within the team. Our aim was to echo that sense of freedom and thrill—the same excitement you felt getting your first car. This isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s a tool for adventure. It’s a passenger mount too, letting friends hop in and rediscover Undermine together.

And racing? Oh, you bet there’s racing. Test your skills on various tracks and courses, and if the need for speed isn’t your thing, there’s an option to tone it down with a slower engine, or switch to regular mounts if that’s your preference.

Let’s talk about the streets you’ll be tearing up. Undermine is a lively, goblin culture hub bustling with activity. Imagine racing cars zipping past, creating an ever-changing scene to fuel your adventures. Whether you’re dropping off towels or facing off against a ghostly tiger scaring the locals, you’ll feel the city’s pulse.

Undermine is brimming with characters—pirates, gangsters, culinary geniuses, and maybe a little danger too. Beneath its constructed sky lies a city full of commerce and life, greater in density and character than most zones you’ve explored.

Consider the city’s features, like Slam Central Station, opening gateways to your wildest imaginations. Landmarks sport playful names like the Incontinental Hotel, reflecting a society thriving on wit and progress.

Undermine’s story is rooted in ambition and change, tied closely with the main plot of The War Within. Interactions with characters such as Orweyna, Renzik, and Gazlowe provide portals into this intriguing world. Some, like Gazlowe, step away to seek something new, while others see Undermine as home—and they’re ready to fight for it.

As Gazlowe’s story evolves, so does a revolution, allowing players to challenge the powers that be and reclaim the city’s heart. It’s about the unity of the people rising against the odds.

So, gear up and join the thrill in Undermine, where fast-paced action and shadowy deals collide. Remember, in racing, it’s not about how far you drift but that you drift at all.

The Undermine(d) expansion is now available for World of Warcraft on PC through Battle.net. Want to dive deeper into the experience? Head over to WorldOfWarcraft.com.