The Burning Crusade brings a lot to WoW but limits its gifts to gameplay. We have already mentioned that there have been no improvements to the graphics engine powering the expansion; we have to add that many fans have complained, mentioning EVE Online and its upcoming free expansion which promises to include a full graphics overhaul. What we have to understand however, are the sheer logistics of having 8 million subscribers from so many different nations. Blizzard cannot just release a high-end game as it is likely to alienate more than half of its subscribers who cannot afford, or do not have access to the latest hardware. In the same way, Blizzard has confronted the connectivity issues that arise. Not all subscribers have access to broadband but Blizzard were faced with a Catch 22 situation, if you label your online mode as 56K compatible you immediately lose some respect points but if you don’t, you scare away a great number of potential subscribers. Blizzard's solution was as ingenious as it was shady. Announce a 56k compatible game, with full technical support, but in the minimum requirements state that a broadband connection is required; done and dusted.
So marketing and logistics aside, how could someone offer an honest assessment of what The Burning Crusade delivers? It is fairly common practice to simply quote sales figures in order to demonstrate a game’s competence and if any game deserves such treatment its WoW. There is however, a more powerful way of judging a game and it’s a very private process. Start playing and see how long it takes before you really have to go to the bathroom. Simply put, WoW must be responsible for the biggest hidden Distended Bladder epidemic in the history of mankind.
Blizzard is a meticulous developer, a company which creates well thought out games and in this light it is clear to see how The Burning Crusade works. Instead of relying on new technology, the developer turned to artistic direction and detailed environments as well as a shedload of new gameplay features. This expansion is not meant to WoW players by offering a unique visual treat but instead rewards the player by offering features which He has requested.
The WoW Factor