Under the Surface: World of Warcraft’s Latest Update Introduces Drivable and Drift-Ready Vehicles

Recently, I had the chance to sit down with one of the lead developers of Undermine(d) to chat about the latest addition to World of Warcraft. The new city unveiled in this expansion is unlike any other in Azeroth—it’s lively, fast-paced, and full of excitement! You’ll be thrilled to discover how you can race through these city streets in all-new hot rods.

Picture taking the bustling streets of New York, tossing in a hefty dose of steampunk aesthetics, and throwing caution to the wind. That pretty much sums up the vibe of Undermine, the newly-launched zone in World of Warcraft. I had the awesome opportunity to spearhead this zone’s design, collaborating with some seriously talented folks on the WoW team, and I’m eager to share more about this brand-new goblin city and its high-speed vehicles.

### Deep Dive, Then D.R.I.V.E.

With the latest World of Warcraft update, we’re bringing a unique twist to the game through the D.R.I.V.E. feature—our catchy way of saying Dynamic and Revolutionary Improvement to Vehicular Experiences. You’re welcome for the epic acronym!

This feature lets players cruise around with the G-99 Breakneck, WoW’s answer to a streamlined hot rod. You can get your hands on this car early in your questing adventures by finishing “Eyes from Above” in the main campaign and then taking on “No More Walkin’ Here” to dive into the Breakneck’s tutorial.

The design of these vehicles draws heavily from the quirky World of Warcraft goblin style, a blend of brilliant innovation and haphazard assembly. The G-99 Breakneck sports features like massive flames from the scoop, made for the hectic roads of Undermine.

One of our aims with this feature was to incorporate drifting— a staple from classic racing games. Bringing this feature to WoW presented a challenge, but it fired up the team. We wanted to recreate that feeling of liberty and mastery, much like getting behind the wheel of your first car.

This vehicle isn’t just for solo adventuring; it’s also a passenger-friendly mount. Team up with friends, hit the streets of Undermine together, and even join in the races that test your driving prowess, whether it’s on the regular or reverse tracks. For those sensitive to motion or seeking something less speedy, we’ve made it customizable. Opt for a slower engine right after obtaining the car, or choose to cruise on regular mounts if that’s more your speed.

### Take to the Streets

Of course, having an amazing car calls for equally fantastic roads to drive on. In Undermine, you’ll find these vehicles zooming around, creating an energetic atmosphere and inviting you to plunge into the buzzing chaos. Engage in activities like delivering hot towels or warding off a ghostly tiger scaring the local kids, making you feel like a vital part of the community.

Undermine is brimming with life, and as you navigate its streets, you’ll bump into pirates, mobsters, ankle-busters, top-notch chefs, and more. Hidden beneath its artificial sky lies a city alive with commercial and cultural goblin life. Different from the typical landscapes of World of Warcraft cities, this is a bustling metropolis full of daily activity and vibrant interactions.

The zone is a glimpse into what’s possible beyond the horizon. With attractions like Slam Central Station, which whisks you anywhere imaginable, Undermine is a testament to the creativity and ambition of goblins. Expect cleverly named spots like the Incontinental Hotel and the Gallagio, symbolizing a culture fixated on growth.

Undermine’s narrative is all about improving one’s lot, tightly woven into the overarching storyline of The War Within. You’ll cross paths with characters like Orweyna in the Ringing Deeps and others—some familiar, some new—like Renzik and Gazlowe, who introduce you to the inner workings of this urban sanctuary. While characters like Gazlowe ventured out seeking other opportunities, Undermine remains home to many who cherish its hustle and bustle.

As the plot thickens, Gazlowe has a change of heart, spurring players to incite a revolution, topple oppressive leaders, and reclaim the streets—echoing a rallying cry for justice and autonomy.

So why wait? Undermine invites you to a realm of quick deals and quicker rides. Whether you drift a little or a lot, drifting is drifting!

Rise to the challenge with the Undermine(d) update, now live on PC through Battle.net. For further details, make sure to visit WorldOfWarcraft.com.