World of Warcraft: Midnight – Pre-Patch 12.0 brings major changes to the game
Last week, the major pre patch for World of Warcraft arrived on the live servers for WoW: Midnight. This officially kicked off the start of the Midnight DLC with Patch 12.0. As a result, new content and systems are already being added to the game before the DLC is even released, serving as preparation for the bigger changes ahead.
What does the pre patch bring?
With the pre patch for World of Warcraft Midnight, new content and systems are being introduced to the game. A new Demon Hunter specialization is being added, the Devourer, which becomes the third specialization and is based on Void energy instead of Fel. There is also a new race class combination, as Void Elves can now become Demon Hunters. The PvP training grounds are now permanently available as a new mode for practice and combat. In addition, the event “Winds of Mysterious Fortune” is making a return, offering a seasonal level and reputation buff. This event starts today on January 27, 2026.
Of course, the new patch also brings several gameplay changes. There are major class and combat adjustments that rework talent trees and offer more freedom of choice. The UI is also being revamped, including built in damage meters and improved display tools that were previously only available through addons. On top of that, there is a stat and item squish to improve balance across all levels. The transmog system also receives an update with outfit sets and accessories. Finally, the housing system has been expanded with neighborhood rules and new rewards.
Controversy & player reactions
The new update has sparked a lot of discussion and criticism among players. Blizzard’s major UI changes were necessary, but some popular combat addons are now being replaced or heavily restricted, which frustrates parts of the community, especially players who have relied on these addons for years. There are also still several bugs causing frustration.
The new transmog features have also triggered strong backlash in the community, as the costs for saving outfit sets are considered very high and are perceived by many players as “mobile game like monetization”.
Conclusion: A pre patch with a lot of potential and some open issues
The pre patch for World of Warcraft: Midnight clearly shows the direction Blizzard is taking with the upcoming DLC. Patch 12.0 is being used deliberately to introduce new systems early and slowly ease players into the larger changes. New class options, extensive UI improvements and reworked talents bring fresh momentum and lower many entry barriers, especially for newcomers and returning players.
At the same time, it becomes clear that not every decision is being met with full approval. Restrictions on addons, technical issues and criticism around the monetization of certain features are fueling ongoing discussions within the community. Overall, the pre patch lays a solid foundation for Midnight, even if Blizzard still needs to make adjustments in the coming weeks to truly satisfy all types of players.
Hey, I’m Kilian, but online you’ll probably know me as “Tux1243.” I've been part of the team for almost two years now, always trying to keep you in the loop with the latest and coolest gaming news. I also have a huge passion for doing deep dives and detailed analyses of entire game series and franchises. I love getting to the bottom of things and exploring the little details and backstories that make game worlds so fascinating.
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