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WOW - Shadowlands Expansion Review: Maldraxxus and the Necrolord Covenant
Butcher79
In this article, we'll take a look at the content brought by the Shadowlands expansion to World of Warcraft.
In the world of eternal war, Maldraxxus, whoever is stronger is right, whatever that power may be. The art of necromancy was born here: magicians, who subjugated death itself, create for themselves powerful immortal armies from hordes of daring spirits.
Welcome to Maldraxus
Chaos reigned in the Dark Lands. As the Kyrian war against the renegades is in full swing, Bastion is suddenly invaded by yet another army - the warlike Maldraxians, whose duty it was to defend the endless worlds of the Dark Lands. The Archon of the Kyrian Covenant has assigned you a special task: to go to Maldraxxus, find the commander of this army and demand an explanation from him.
But it soon becomes clear that not all is calm in the realm of the Necrolords. Two of the five ruling houses have been destroyed, and their common leader, Primate, has disappeared somewhere. The remaining three houses plunge headlong into a chaotic and brutal struggle, seeking to seize the Primate's throne by any means - for whoever rules this ancient citadel rules the armies of the Dark Lands.
The Primus was an unsurpassed genius of strategy and tactics, and there were practically no equals to him on the battlefield. Leaving his impregnable refuge, he left behind cryptic messages and prophecies, announcing the coming of someone who embodies the power of Maldraxxus and will not allow this world to destroy him.
Inhabitants of Maldraxxus
Meet the inhabitants of Maldraxxus.
AWESOME
The bodies of all the slain are sent to the house of the Kadauri, where new creatures are skillfully assembled from the highest quality pieces of flesh and bones. The bodies of such animated monsters are more than the sum of their once separate parts: thanks to these bodies, their existence again makes sense.
GLADIATORS
The most powerful warriors and protectors enter the house of the Chosen and become gladiators. These consummate tacticians tirelessly train with all manner of rune weapons; they do not know defeat in battle.
Lychee
Liches who learn the art of magic in the House of Rituals are vicious skeletal spellcasters who use their anima to enhance their powerful spells.
REMAINS OF THE HOUSE OF PLAGUE
With the destruction of the House of Plague, the by-products of some of the most heinous experiments conducted there came to life, transforming into creatures that now roam aimlessly across the plains and ravines of Maldraxxus.
ROCKING SOUL ABOVE
Fools who foolishly enter Maldraxxus are paralyzed with terror at the mere sight of these huge monsters. These mighty guards are countless hordes of fallen warriors. The very ground trembles under their feet as they patrol the area.
ARANAKKI
Once excellent assassins and scouts for the now-fallen House of the Eyes, the Aranakki have now become mere nomads, having lost their masters. Although their necropolis is destroyed, they have managed to maintain their sense of purpose and - for a decent price - are ready to share the secrets they have snatched from the tangled web of truth.
These are just a few of the creatures you will encounter in Maldraxxus. Stay vigilant during your adventures - in this world you can meet the long-dead heroes of Azeroth.
Necrolord Covenant
After reaching the maximum level and exploring all the first four zones, players will be able to swear an oath to one of the covenants - for example, Necrolords. Each covenant gives its defenders special abilities, as well as access to decorative rewards and additional skills as you progress through the covenant campaign (the plot of which depends on the faction of the character). This alliance will also allow the character to enter the covenant's sanctuary, a place open only to those who have made a pact with its rulers.
Power of the Necrolords
By joining the Necrolord Covenant, you will receive two unique abilities: one class ability that can be used in combat, as well as one distinctive ability that all members of the covenant have.
Here is the distinctive ability that the Necrolords will give their heroes:
Flesh Sculptor: You create a shield of flesh and bone that absorbs damage equal to a fraction of your maximum health. You will create a stronger shield if you stand next to a defeated enemy during the use of the ability.
You can find information about what to expect from these abilities in the list Covenant Distinctive and Class Abilities. Please note that work on these abilities is not finished yet, and in the process of development and testing they may be affected by changes.
Soul connection
You will be able to perform an ancient ritual and link your soul with the soul of one of the most powerful members of the covenant you decide to join. By doing this, your character will own their power and gain access to powerful buffs. As time passes, you will be able to unlock new levels of power and even change your soul bond partner according to your chosen strategy.
Necrolord Covenant Rewards
For your service to the Necrolord Covenant, you will be rewarded with several cosmetic items, including a mount, a pet, a set of Necrolord-forged armor, and back ornaments that will earn you the respect of your new allies.
Put on your armor
Suit up in armor forged especially for you in the forges of Maldraxxus.
Below is information about the Plague Cascades dungeon and the game's plot - beware, spoilers!
We look forward to sharing more with you as development progresses, and hope this preview helps you prepare for Maldraxxus and possibly choose to side with the Necrolord Covenant!
Will you join the Necrolord Covenant? Take part in the discussion on the forum.
All rewards and abilities are a work in progress, and a lot can change before the game launches, so be sure to keep an eye on our news posts on the site as we get closer to the release of the Shadowlands expansion.
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