World of Warcraft is a groundbreaking MMORPG that has defined the genre since its launch in 2004. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, it brought players into the expansive world of Azeroth, where they could forge their own adventures and explore a richly detailed universe. The game’s roots lie in the Warcraft RTS series, which introduced the lore and characters that became central to WoW. Over nearly two decades, WoW has evolved through multiple expansions, each adding new zones, races, classes, and gameplay systems.Early expansions like The Burning Crusade and Wrath of the Lich King established WoW as a cultural phenomenon, with Wrath reaching a peak of 12 million subscribers. Later expansions, such as Cataclysm and Mists of Pandaria, brought bold innovations, from world-changing events to deeper storytelling. However, challenges arose with expansions like Warlords of Draenor, where content gaps led to player dissatisfaction. Blizzard rebounded with Legion, which revitalized the game through new systems like Artifact Weapons and Mythic+ dungeons.Recent expansions, including Battle for Azeroth, Shadowlands, and Dragonflight, have continued to refine gameplay while exploring Azeroth’s evolving narrative. The game’s cultural impact extends beyond gaming, influencing popular culture and fostering vibrant player communities. As WoW approaches its twentieth anniversary, it remains a testament to the power of immersive storytelling, social connection, and innovative game design.