WoW: Forever’s First Raids Bring Three Sizes—and an Onyxia Attunement

All three level 60 raids are scheduled to unlock December 9. Barrow Deeps is a 10-player raid beneath Kalimdor, Hyjal Summit takes 20 players to Mount Hyjal, and Onyxia’s Lair returns as a 40-player encounter in Dustwallow Marsh.[1]

Barrow Deeps has eight bosses and multiple entrances connected through Mount Hyjal, Winterspring, and Blackmaw Hold. Its setting is the prison where Illidan was held, with the raid focused on what became of those left behind and the danger its wardens seek to contain.[1]

Hyjal Summit has 13 bosses, beginning with an ancient guardian. Raiders can choose among multiple paths across the mountain, through ruins above and below ground, as they work toward the final encounters.[1]

Onyxia’s encounter has three phases and fire attacks; the raid overview recommends building fire resistance and staying ready to reposition as the fight shifts. Entry requires each player to have the Drakefire Amulet in their inventory, though it does not need to be equipped.[1]

The Alliance chain starts in the Burning Steppes and runs through the Windsor storyline, Stormwind, and Upper Blackrock Spire. The Horde route begins in Badlands and involves Lower and Upper Blackrock Spire, Rexxar, and a series of dragon-hunting quests.[1]

The published guidance is to start early: the faction-specific chains include elite quests and several trips into high-level dungeons. That makes the amulet a group-preparation task, not just a last-minute item check.[1]

The raids are currently planned to reset each week, giving groups a recurring schedule once they are ready to return. The December 9 opening also leaves time after launch for players to reach level 60 and organize their teams.[1]