Should you play WoW on a private server?

WoW private servers aren’t a new concept, but they’ve really picked up in popularity in recent times. For the most part, Blizzard leaves these modded, alternate World of Warcraft servers alone; however, this isn’t always the case. Many of these private servers are simply alternate ways to approach and play World of Warcraft as an MMO. For those interested, given the top private servers are well known, a cursory Google search should direct you to your objective.

Whether you want something new or are just bored waiting on the release of The War Within, there are several options for you out there. Some of these games have been running for years, and are completely free - with the exception of optional real-money purchases. Let’s dive deeper into the topic of WoW private servers.

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Why would you play on a WoW private server?

Maybe you just want something Blizzard isn't providing you with (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)

There are lots of reasons to play on a private server of WoW. For one, the game may simply not appeal to you as a player anymore. Or you may want to play the game you love with the people you like, but cannot afford to keep up anymore. These free, private servers offer players something like that in most cases.

However, some fans just want something that Blizzard isn’t giving them - for example, Ascension’s classless/randomizer system. Players can make thousands, if not millions of potential classes using any skills they want in the game. It allows them to control the difficulty of the leveling experience.

Many of these games offer something unique - whether it’s a focus on a particular expansion, or regularly making its own content/expansions, WoW private servers, while a touchy subject, is something players can access on their own.

There’s no real risk to you, as the player, either. The only risk comes from how secure the server is - which is why due diligence on your part is important. Blizzard doesn’t monitor their player’s internet activity, so you won’t get banned for playing on private servers. While it’s unlikely you’ll be banned on the official forums for bringing them up, it’s not recommended you talk about them while playing on the live WoW clients.

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How to play on a WoW private server

Most of these are incredibly easy to set up - no different from the old days of Warcraft, pre-Battle.net (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)

Getting involved in a WoW private server is pretty easy. After figuring out which one you want to play, it’s best to research it. Figure out if the players are enjoying it, or if it’s a server run by an admin that abuses their power - little things like that.

Most, if not all, of these private servers have dedicated websites you can go to. Whether it’s Turtle or Ascension, many of them are easy to locate. From there, you download their client, and register the game - in most cases, it’s exactly like installing World of Warcraft. That said, this could vary, so make sure to read the website’s instructions.

From there, you just need to log into the game client, create a character, and set out on your way. Some private servers feature unique rulesets or brand-new classes/storylines that might require some getting used to. It’s important to know what you’re walking into before you start.

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At the end of the day, it’s up to you if/how you want to spend some of your time playing on a WoW private server. You should fill the hours in a way that is worthwhile to you. Some players play private servers and retail at the same time, that may be a viable option for you too. The most important thing is to have fun and be safe.