The following contains spoilers for World of Warcraft Patch 11.1.7’s Lorewalking feature.
Summary
World of WarcraftPatch 11.1.7 adds some new backstory for Xal’atath in the form of an instance scenario and finale cinematic showing how she was imprisoned in her dagger during the time of the Black Empire. This new content can be seen on the Public Test Realm right now, and will be available as a part of the Lorewalking system coming toWorld of Warcraftin Patch 11.1.7.
Legacy of Arathor,World of WarcraftPatch 11.1.7, introduces a new storytelling and leveling feature called Lorewalking. This activity takes bits and pieces of quests, lore, and material from across the game’s 20 years of history, along with some original content, and compiles it into curated narratives pertaining to major characters, events, and cultures. At launch, threeLorewalking stories will be available inWorld of Warcraft: Xal’atath, The Lich King, and the Ethereals – though fans have already found evidence of at least one more currently in development.
The starting stories won’t be available to play in the live game until Patch 11.1.7, but fans have been able to get a sneak peek via the Public Test Realm, and parts of Xal’atath’s story have revealed some interesting information about the antagonist. Near the end of the questline, players experience a brand-new vision of the past where the four Old Gods come together to punish Xal’atath, imprisoning her in the Black Blade of the Empire.Wowheadcompiled a full playthrough of the questline, including its in-development cinematic finale, complete with voiced dialogue, and further hints of an ongoing deal between her and N’Zoth.
Xal’atath Lorewalking Finale in WoW Patch 11.1.7
Shadow Priests first met Xal’atath inWorld of Warcraft: Legion, though few expected her to play such a prominent role in the story until she reappeared inBattle for Azerothto all fans. The new Lorewalking scenario covers these events and more, providing further context, canon clarification as to who was involved in her story at each step, and more, leading up to her role as a major villain inThe War Withinand the Worldsoul Saga. Players knew about Xal’atath’s incarceration within the dagger before now, but this is the first time they have been able to see the events take place directly.
Yet, Xal’atath’s true nature is still shrouded in mystery. Fans have developed many theories regarding who or what she is and what her goals are, but no one knows for sure quite yet.Xal’atath’s story won’t be finished inWoW: The War Within, so players might have to wait untilMidnightor evenThe Last Titanto find out more about her lore.
The11.1.7 update forWorld of Warcraftdoesn’t have a release date yet, though evidence suggests it may arrive on June 17. Fans can likely expect an official announcement within the next few weeks.
