World of Warcraft at Ten Ton Hammer

Phasing technology is the future for the World of Warcraft

Co-lead designer Tom Chilton and producer J. Allen Brack gave an interview about what goes into the design for Wrath of the Lich King. One interesting thing they started talking about was the new phasing technology they're using - which is giving the world a less stationary feel. If you're a lucky beta tester who has played through the Death Knight starting area, you know what I'm talking about.

Eurogamer: Is that less static world something we're going to see more of in the game proper?

J. Allen Brack: Yes, we actually have used it in several places in Northrend, what we call the phasing technology. There's quests that you do when you arrive at a town that's overrun by Scourge, it's like a "Choplifter" quest, you have to fly in and rescue villagers. As you bring them back to your quest hub, those villagers are there permanently for you, whereas if somebody who hasn't done the quest shows up, they don't see them.

For the rest of the interview, please check here.