One of the biggest surprises at BlizzCon 2026, World of Warcraft: Forever, is launching its beta much sooner than anyone expected. Just days after the announcement, the beta opens its doors this week.

When Does the Beta Start?

The WoW Forever beta begins on Thursday, September 17 (PDT) and runs through October 21, 2026, giving players about seven weeks to experience the game early. Since Blizzard typically releases updates between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM ET, expect the beta to go live around the same time.

Two Ways to Get Beta Access

There are two ways to get into the beta, but only one guarantees your spot:

If you choose to sign up for free, you’ll be added in waves just like previous betas. Don’t worry if you’re not selected right away—this is normal. You’ll know you’ve been selected either through an email notification or when the Forever beta client appears as "available" in your Battle.net app.

Pre-order Packages and Prices

The most affordable guaranteed access is with the Skyborne Epic Pack for 59.99 USD. After your purchase, Blizzard will send your beta access code via email. This may not be instant, so a short wait might be necessary.

What’s Included in the Beta?

While the full game will have a level cap of 60, the beta initially limits players to level 20, which will increase to 30 after a few weeks. WoW Forever introduces the new Skyborne race, new dungeons, new raids, and an additional PvP battleground. The story is set after the events of Warcraft III: Reforged’s Forsaken Kingdom expansion but before Molten Core, taking players back to the original continents with a level 60 cap.

Beta Characters Won’t Carry Over

Important note: Characters created during the beta likely won’t transfer to the full release on November 4. You’ll most likely need to start fresh when WoW Forever officially launches.

Early Name Reservation

After the beta ends, there’s an Early Name Reservation period from October 27 to November 3. This is included with any upgrade purchase, allowing players to create up to three characters and reserve their names. Names are first come, first served, so mark your calendar if you don’t want to miss out on your favorite character names.

What If You Don’t Pre-order?

Missing the beta isn’t the end of the world. Anyone with an active World of Warcraft subscription or game time can access WoW Forever at launch on November 4 at no additional cost. Pre-ordering is only required for early access and bonus cosmetic content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pre-ordering the only way to guarantee access to the WoW Forever beta?

For now, yes. Free opt-in registration gives you a chance, but only pre-ordering the Skyborne Epic Pack or higher guarantees beta access.

Will my beta character transfer to the full game?

Most likely not. Beta characters are not expected to carry over to the official release on November 4, so you’ll need to create a new one.

Do I need to pre-order to access WoW Forever?

No. Anyone with an active World of Warcraft subscription or game time can play the game at launch without any extra payment.