Turtle WoW 2.0 — Powered by Unreal Engine 5

[Torta]

Greetings!

Many players have expressed that Mysteries of Azeroth and Vanilla WoW are becoming difficult to play as the old 1.12 client can struggle on newer hardware and operating systems. We love the original game and want to ensure that players are able to experience it for years to come. With many years of plans and new ideas in our sights, we have chosen to take action to ensure we can offer entertaining, expanded gameplay for everyone long into the future.

We needed a solution to extend the life of our favorite game, and almost a year and a half ago, we started our collaboration with the second development team known as Council of Tirisfal. Today, we're excited to present the first look at our special development: Turtle WoW 2.0 — the Vanilla WoW client fully replicated in Unreal Engine 5.

Unfortunately, with the good comes the bad. After seeing explosive growth (over 200k views, doubling our subscribers), our new trailer was given a takedown. While we'll be appealing this decision as our content is highly transformative, we have uploaded it to our website at https://twow.link/uetrailer

We love Azeroth, and will continue to mod our favorite game, even if sometimes it doesn't love us back. We are saddened by the loss of hundreds of supportive comments and countless pieces of valuable feedback, and as we have in the past when facing similar strikes, we encourage everyone to leave their feelings and feedback on our forums :)

Highlights

• Developed specifically for the Turtle WoW Core, supporting all custom content out of the box.

• Built to include custom tools, allowing our team to expand on the Mysteries of Azeroth easier.

• Developed by a dedicated team, meaning our main content development and design teams will not face delays.

• Full original WoW 1.12.* API preservation (and extended), supporting all existing 1.12 and Turtle WoW exclusive addons.

• Able to run smoothly on any PC, from potatoes to powerful systems.

• Packaged with a proprietary anti-cheat which renders all existing botting and cheating software worthless.

• Cross-platform Play Supported: Compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Android smartphones and tablets.

Two Graphic Modes

The new client will support two visual modes with different system requirements:

• Legacy Mode: This will look and feel like your usual game.

• Modern Mode: This will offer all the best Unreal Engine has to offer, including dynamic shadows, superior lighting, and more.

We plan to incorporate newer HD textures and models into the Modern Mode to ensure the game looks organic, and low-poly graphics don't clash with the modern lighting. However, you will be able switch to legacy character models.

Legacy Mode System Requirements:

Code: Select all

Operating System: Windows 7 64bit or newer
CPU: Intel Core i3-2100 or AMD A6-3600
RAM: 1 GB
GPU: Integrated graphics (e. g. Intel HD Graphics 4000)

Modern Mode System Requirements:

Code: Select all

Operating System: Windows 7 64bit or newer
CPU: Intel Core i5-6600k or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 (4 core CPU required)
RAM: 4 GB
GPU: Dedicated graphics card (e. g. Geforce GTX 1060 or AMD RX 580)

Impossible Becomes Possible

With the new custom client, we can finally change things that were previously limited by the old client:

• Extended quest logs beyond the 20-quest limit.

• Proper widescreen support.

• Add a field of view (FOV) slider.

• Support for DLSS and AMD FidelityFX for enhanced performance and visuals.

• Better performance and AddOn support.

• Action Queueing, so your DPS is no longer dependent on latency.

• Organic multi-language support.

Starting now, the development team will provide regular updates on the new client, with a planned release in 2025. Please be aware that there will be a transition period during which it will be possible to play from both clients until we are sure that the new client works flawlessly.

The client will be distributed for free among Turtle WoW players. The goal of this project is to extend the lifespan of our expansion, supporting the existing emulation software our project runs on.

Modding & Streamlined Development Process

Our approach with this grand client swap is aimed at preserving the speed of our current content development without pausing it. While players will be testing and connecting from both clients, our tools will allow the modding team to continue developing their assets using the original 1.12 tools, converting them to UE formats later. Eventually, we'll all transition to the newer toolset.

Funding

We've poured an ungodly amount of resources into this project. If you'd like to support the Unreal Client development and help us recoup the small fortune we've spent, please check out our donations page. Mysteries of Azeroth is free to play and enjoy, and none of our progress would be possible without your support.

[Akalix]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my PC run it?
Yes! We're optimizing UE5 for Legacy Mode (we're even modifying the engine render code) so 99.9% of current players will be able to run at least Legacy Mode.

Does this mean Turtle is going past vanilla+ into newer expansions?
No, we'll be staying on Mysteries of Azeroth!

When will this be playable?
2025.

Will we still be able to play on the old client?
There will be a transitional period where you can play with both the old and new clients. Eventually, the new client will become necessary. The old client limits us, but we don't want to force a rapid transition. We aim to ensure the new client works well for everyone before ending support for the old client.

What accessibility options will the client have?
Note: Accessibility options will come after the release.

• 1. Text-to-Speech support for important parts of the game (quest details, quest log, inventory, chat, character information, etc.), plus a system to help blind players understand their surroundings.

• 2. Adjustable font size for all important UI elements.

• 3. Text indicators for item quality and enemy aggressiveness instead of color.

• 4. Speech support for chat input (this is tentative).
  • 4.1. Speech control for character actions (challenging but beneficial for players with disabilities).

Will it be on consoles?
Microsoft, Sony, or Nintendo are unlikely to approve a project like this. The Nintendo Switch might be an option someday.

Will there be crossplay between old and new clients?
Yes, during the transition period. Eventually, we will only support the TW2 client.

Can I use this to play on other servers?
No. This client will only be able to connect to the Turtle WoW network.

Does it run on Mac?
Eventually, if there is a demand, we will try to provide an official port. Currently, only via emulation software.

Does it run on Linux?
Eventually, if there is a demand, we will try to provide an official port. Currently, only via emulation software.

Is it on iOS or just Android?
Just Android. iOS has a tightly controlled ecosystem which is not suitable for our project. If Apple allowed anonymous app creation, we could try.

Will I be able to toggle different graphics between Modern Mode and Legacy Mode?
Yes, you can switch in the options. Graphics options will differ for Legacy and Modern Mode. Some features will be exclusive to each mode (e.g., Lumen will only be in Modern Mode).

Will my graphical mod still work?
Mod support will come after release. On release, there will be no custom mod support, however it is planned. Previous mods will be incompatible with the new client, and MPQ files won't be recognized.

How will modding work?
Instead of MPQ, there will be PAK files. You can modify files similarly to MPQ, but not all files are replaceable. Some files, like FrameXML content, will be protected. We'll provide instructions for creating 3D assets or textures for the new client later.

Will there be other graphics modes beyond Legacy/Modern?
No. While there will be numerous options to tweak the modes to your personal taste, it will only be either Legacy or Modern.

Will it come with a launcher?
We'll provide details later.

Will there be updates after launch?
Of course! We will have ongoing updates for the TW2 client, extending long past beta and release.

Will there be new addon/mod types?
Addons will remain the same, even the folder structures. Mods, however, will change (see above).

What APIs will there be?
1.12.* Addon API. We have ideas for more API layers, but that will come after release.

Will I be able to move my settings and ability layout from the old client to the new client?
Yes! On the first launch, the new client can import all your addons, keybinds, and settings from the old client. You'll get a dialog box that guides you through the process.

Is there any possibility that this new client can support addons from other versions of WoW, such as Classic?
We have ideas about API Layers, but this will come after the release. At launch, it will support the 1.12.1 API.

[Majkatsu]

Isn't this a bit audacious? What's stopping a DMCA? It's one thing to have a fan-made expansion like WC3 has plenty of but a full custom client and engine port with Blizzard assests is surely not going to go under the radar and stops looking like a fan project and more like you're trying to cut into Retail's market.

[Landslide314]

Incredibly impressive. I can't wait to try it.

[Bimbombo2]

Thanks for keeping the addons the same. I would have quit if I couldn’t bring my addons over

[Sagabal]

Is this also going to be expanding previous developer limitations regarding worldspaces, for example? I remember that being a limitation for adding new areas.

[Coldcoffee]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

[Journeyman]

Too ambitious for a project only working because blizzard lawers allow it.
Another thing is the complexity, which, most likley is underestimated.
IMO this a risk this server will eventually go down after nost.

[Toirto]

Does this mena noggit will no longer be used for making maps? What would be used instead if yes.

[Nazzydragon]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

If there's a wipe I quit. This fresh nonsense is aggrivating.

[Jaygarrick]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

Then just create a new character. So problem solve. Instead of wiping peoples progress..

[Grizb37]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

Another crying for fresh. Tel'abim was fresh but you saw how much that failed and it wasn't because it was pvp. Fresh hype always dies out.

[Allwynd01]

I hope it runs on Linux via Wine/Proton. I play Turtle WoW like this so I'm fine without having a native port as long as it works, so I will be happy if this version also works on Linux.

[Bellybutton]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

A complete wipe literally goes against the ethos of this server, not to mention Turtle WoW isn't a democracy.

[Daedalus007]

Some highlights from the livestream:

-Akalix is NOT a lawyer so any legal questions can't be answered.

-Linux and MacOS support based on demand so if you want it SPEAK UP so they can do native clients!

-Controller support confirmed!

-Steam Deck support confirmed!

-API will be v1.12.x only, absolutely NO confirmation on possible 2.4.3 and/or 3.3.5 or later support (or WoW classic addon API support) and NO guarantees; if you really want that then please SPEAK UP!

-new client will ONLY work on Turtle WoW

-new seperate 'small' dev team working on this 2.0 client graphical upgrade; mechanics will be 'kept the same' as much as possible so it can both look AND feel like vanilla as it is now
--yes all the devs are paid including the twow 2.0 client graphical upgrade team

-player data is kept secured and private; the devs are committed to preserving and protecting players; most account hacking happens due to password reuse especially on other private servers so please use a UNIQUE password for turtle wow!
--if you want 2FA there's already an option in your account management section when you login to website

-no CURRENT plans for new playable races; possible for future but way later; new content first before new playable races if any; happy with high elves and goblins only for now being in the game as new playable races

-mobile support confirmed, will run Android-only for now

-new client will have multi-threaded rendering support and 64-bit support; FrameXML cannot be multi-threaded due to hard-coded limitations but the rest can be modified so it is an ongoing thing subject to change

-most of the chat was nonsense and asking unrelated stuff so it gets ignored

[Fizzler]

Isn't this a bit audacious? What's stopping a DMCA? It's one thing to have a fan-made expansion like WC3 has plenty of but a full custom client and engine port with Blizzard assests is surely not going to go under the radar and stops looking like a fan project and more like you're trying to cut into Retail's market.

I'm 100% sure that Torta and friends have a backup plan to not get beat by Activision. They mentioned it before a lot in the past.

[Gingerale01]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

Why do you always need "fresh" this server is continuously adding new content, its not a vanilla server that stops at Naxx, so why restart

[Daedalus007]

Please let the community vote on a wipe instead of just keeping everything as is. I for one would like a fresh start for something like this. It's going bring a lot of new players. The anti-cheat will create a much more level playing field. Having a gear and gold advantage from an old client doesn't make much sense.

I am strongly against any wipes. Many people have paid items and it would be a massive headache for the team.
Instead, new realms would be a nice thing to see if we have enough of a population/demand for them.

[Dirti]

A beginning of a new era - not just in the private server scene. Blizzard are literally being outshadowed, but it is also no longer the same company run by old-school RPG nerds like us. Massive announcement and everyone in the private server scene is put on notice, everyone wins, as they will have to up their game, because who wouldn't wanna try this out!?

P.S. PLEASE keep Duskwood and Ashenvale dark (also Deadwind Pass, Felwood etc.) like we saw in the trailer, not only is it lore-correct, but it is also how the zone were in the beta version of the game ...and the IMMERSION it will bring!

I can't wait!!!

[Denniz010]

Isn't this a bit audacious? What's stopping a DMCA? It's one thing to have a fan-made expansion like WC3 has plenty of but a full custom client and engine port with Blizzard assests is surely not going to go under the radar and stops looking like a fan project and more like you're trying to cut into Retail's market.

I fear for this as well. This is gonna draw major attention and a LOT of players are going to come and see what the fuss is about. More players and more attention and Blizz/M$ is going to come knocking.

[Gingerale01]

Isn't this a bit audacious? What's stopping a DMCA? It's one thing to have a fan-made expansion like WC3 has plenty of but a full custom client and engine port with Blizzard assests is surely not going to go under the radar and stops looking like a fan project and more like you're trying to cut into Retail's market.

I fear for this as well. This is gonna draw major attention and a LOT of players are going to come and see what the fuss is about. More players and more attention and Blizz/M$ is going to come knocking.

Blizzard didn't take down Nost, they won't take down turtle

[Celarc]

Incredible! Definitely the start of a new era for WoW Private servers, Blizzard allowing. Looking forward to seeing zones that already have atmospheric lighting, like Duskwood, and Feralas in a literal new light!

[Alexdelarge]

What's the point of the anti-cheat/anti-botting improvements if there's no wipe? Let the community vote on a wipe.

[Satirical]

No thanks to fresh. All those people clamoring for fresh didn't even stick around for Banana realm to mature. You want fresh? Start a new character.

Looking forward to the project reaching new heights though!

[Bimbombo2]

If they’re using their own client, does that mean they can add whatever content they want now?

Because I want public world quests like what was in Warhammer online.

[Zablas]

Please do bring this natively to Linux! With all the people (including me) transitioning away from Windows 11 after Win10 ends its support it is a great opportunity to tap into this market. Using Wine to run this on Linux will most surely cause glitches as people do have issues using Wine alongside latest UE5 games.

[Ultizers]

Is it going to support hardware ray traced lumen/path tracing and ray traced reflections?
Not sure if it's going to be software lumen only.

[Geojak]

Some highlights from the livestream:

-Akalix is NOT a lawyer so any legal questions can't be answered.

-Linux and MacOS support based on demand so if you want it SPEAK UP so they can do native clients!

-Controller support confirmed!

-Steam Deck support confirmed!

-API will be v1.12.x only, absolutely NO confirmation on possible 2.4.3 and/or 3.3.5 or later support (or WoW classic addon API support) and NO guarantees; if you really want that then please SPEAK UP!

-new client will ONLY work on Turtle WoW

-new seperate 'small' dev team working on this 2.0 client graphical upgrade; mechanics will be 'kept the same' as much as possible so it can both look AND feel like vanilla as it is now
--yes all the devs are paid including the twow 2.0 client graphical upgrade team

-player data is kept secured and private; the devs are committed to preserving and protecting players; most account hacking happens due to password reuse especially on other private servers so please use a UNIQUE password for turtle wow!
--if you want 2FA there's already an option in your account management section when you login to website

-no CURRENT plans for new playable races; possible for future but way later; new content first before new playable races if any; happy with high elves and goblins only for now being in the game as new playable races

-mobile support confirmed, will run Android-only for now

-new client will have multi-threaded rendering support and 64-bit support; FrameXML cannot be multi-threaded due to hard-coded limitations but the rest can be modified so it is an ongoing thing subject to change

-most of the chat was nonsense and asking unrelated stuff so it gets ignored

Thanks for the extra Infos from the stream.

I am extremely impressed by twow attempting their own client. Rly amazing stuff

[Charanko]

are you at all worried blizzard can get to you thru epic games and shut everything down?

[Zaphot]

Hi, are you planing to open source it, so others can look into it and help bug-fixing/improving it?

[Weirdyunus]

Please add Linux support! There are many players that are playing turtle wow through emulators on Linux but they are not that great. So a native Linux version for the Unreal Engine version would be very useful pleaseee turtlewow

[Itorch100]

Classic WoW API support would be amazing! There's so many great addons that I wish were useable in vanilla.

[Qorvulth]

When will we expect to know what modding tools we can use , i assume even if you back port it through API , i have a feeling that people will want to use UE5 tools instead ... its just frankly easier to use. Will we get tools to use with that ... and what new limitation will you impose onto us ?

[Projecx]

My only problem with this is it's too good to be true.

Was this meant to be posted April 1st or something???

[Golvellius]

thank you, very excited to hear that finally someone has the cojones to rebuild the entire game with new up to date graphics.