Source: Metacritic
Something big might be on the horizon for Warcraft 3: Reforged. Recently, fans noticed a brief but intriguing change in the game’s internal Public Test Realm (PTR), where the version number was updated from 1.36 to 2.0. While the update only lasted around 16 hours before being reverted, this sudden change has sparked speculation that Blizzard could be preparing a major overhaul for the remastered real-time strategy (RTS) game.
When Warcraft 3: Reforged was first revealed at BlizzCon 2018, excitement was high. Blizzard promised a remastered version of the beloved 2002 classic, complete with a fresh coat of paint, updated story content, enhanced voice acting, and a full graphical overhaul. However, when the game finally launched in 2020, it fell well short of expectations. Fans were disappointed by the lack of promised features and overall polish, leading to widespread negative reviews. Blizzard went as far as offering full refunds, no questions asked, due to the poor reception.
Despite these challenges, it seems Blizzard might not be ready to abandon Warcraft 3: Reforged just yet. The recent version jump on the PTR has many wondering if a significant update or even a relaunch is on the way.
What Does Version 2.0 Mean for Warcraft 3: Reforged?
For fans of the series, the jump from version 1.36 to 2.0 is particularly significant. Historically, Blizzard only makes such a jump when major changes or expansions are in the works. For context, Warcraft 3: The Frozen Throne, released in 2003, only reached version 1.07. Even the launch version of Reforged was 1.32. So, moving to version 2.0 indicates something big could be coming.
Speculation is already running wild within the community. Some believe this could be tied to surveys Blizzard sent out earlier this year, asking players for feedback on a potential “soft relaunch” of the game. With the Warcraft franchise celebrating its 30th anniversary this November, it’s possible Blizzard could be using this milestone as an opportunity to bring Reforged back into the spotlight.
Many long-time Warcraft 3 players are cautiously optimistic about what this version change could mean. Content creators like Back2Warcraft have already begun discussing the possibilities, from a major content update to a complete overhaul that might address many of the issues that plagued the game’s initial release. While there’s no official word from Blizzard just yet, the timing is curious, especially with a Warcraft Direct presentation confirmed to be happening before the end of the year. Some are hoping that this event, possibly tied to the upcoming anniversary, could finally deliver the news they’ve been waiting for.
Of course, it’s also important to manage expectations. The version change could turn out to be something much smaller or even an internal mistake that means nothing at all. Blizzard has been known to make behind-the-scenes tweaks that don’t necessarily translate into new features for players. Still, even a small update could breathe some life into the Reforged community, which has been waiting patiently for the game to get the attention it deserves.
This potential update comes at a critical time for Blizzard. The company has been navigating several ups and downs across its various franchises. From the success of Diablo 4 to the ongoing updates for World of Warcraft, Blizzard’s fans have come to expect consistent content across its games. A major update to Warcraft 3: Reforged could be a chance for Blizzard to correct course and deliver on the promises it made back in 2018.
With the Warcraft anniversary fast approaching and Blizzard’s Gamescom panel confirming a Warcraft Direct presentation before the end of the year, the community has reason to stay tuned for further announcements. Whether the version 2.0 update leads to a long-awaited revival or proves to be a smaller patch remains to be seen, but Warcraft 3 players are certainly hoping for the former.
