Over the past two decades, the MMORPG World of Warcraft has expanded its universe with a diverse array of playable species. This ever-growing roster is now transitioning from video gaming to tabletop role-playing with the upcoming Dungeons & Dragons World of Warcraft supplement, set to introduce 16 new species to the D&D universe.

The species featured in this supplement fall into two categories: five classic adaptations from previous D&D editions (Dwarves, Elves, Goblins, Humans, and Orcs) and eleven brand-new unique species originating from the World of Warcraft, including Dracthyr, Draenei, Earthen, Forsaken, Gnomes, Haranir, Pandaren, Tauren, Trolls, Vulpera, and Worgen.

Understanding Renown in D&D 5.5E

A key aspect of the new D&D WoW supplement is the introduction of the Renown mechanic, which offers a framework for player interaction with the many factions of Azeroth. Each species possesses a base Renown score affecting gameplay aspects such as access to magic items, discounts on equipment, and usage of new Bastion facilities. This system ties into the optional Renown rules presented in the 2024 Dungeon Master’s Guide, allowing players to navigate the complex political landscape of Azeroth more dynamically.

Detailed Species Breakdown

1. Dracthyr

Dracthyr are draconic humanoids created by the ancient dragon aspect Neltharion. These beings can shift forms between their draconic state and a humanoid visage. Unique to this species is the Evoker class, also carried into the D&D ruleset. Dracthyr have a creature type classified as Dragon in the game.

Dracthyr Traits

• Creature Type: Dragon
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet
• Gliding Wings: Subtract from fall damage while gliding.
• Visage: Shift between dragon and humanoid forms.
• Draconic Flight: Gain the ability to fly starting at character level 5.

2. Draenei

Draenei are tall, blue-skinned beings originally from the planet Argus. They fled their home to escape the Burning Legion and settled on Azeroth, joining the Alliance to combat evil. They carry divine heritage, which enhances their capabilities in spellcasting.

Draenei Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet
• Eredar Lineage: Gain abilities based on chosen lineage.
• Heroic Presence: Gain benefits when casting spells from your lineage.

3. Dwarf

Azeroth’s dwarves descended from the Earthen, stone beings created by the Titans. They awoke from a long hibernation as flesh-and-blood dwarfs, forming their great city of Ironforge.

Dwarf Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 120 feet.
• Dwarven Resilience: Resistance to Poison damage.
• Stonecunning: Gain Tremorsense while on stone.

4. Earthen

The Earthen were originally creations of the Titans, now awakening and playing a role in both the Alliance and Horde. Their appearance is similar to dwarves but made of living stone.

Earthen Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Azerite Surge: Heal allies and damage enemies in a cone.
• Darkvision: 120 feet.
• Earthen Resilience: Resistance to Poison damage.

5. Elf

Elves in Azeroth are divided primarily into several lineages, including Night Elves and Blood Elves, each with their own distinct abilities and histories.

Elf Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet.
• Elven Lineage: Gain the level 1 benefit of your chosen lineage.
• Trance: Finish a Long Rest in 4 hours.

6. Forsaken

The Forsaken are undead beings who regained their minds and autonomy after a plague led by the Lich King. They formed their own faction and have a complex history within the Horde.

Forsaken Traits

• Creature Type: Undead
• Size: Medium or Small
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet.
• Deathly Endurance: Resistance to Necrotic damage.

7. Gnome

Azeroth’s gnomes originate as mechanical beings known as Mechagnomes, transitioning to fleshy beings after a curse was lifted. They excel as inventors and engineers.

Gnome Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Small
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet.
• Built for Success: Add 1d4 to a D20 test.

8. Haranir

The Haranir are a newly introduced species closely connected to druidic traditions, residing in the depths of Azeroth beneath the World Trees.

Haranir Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkvision: 120 feet.
• Haranir Magic: Know specific cantrips and prepared spells.

9. Human

Azeroth’s humans are heirs to a legacy stemming from the vrykul, interacting deeply with other races as key players in the Alliance.

Human Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium or Small
• Speed: 30 feet
• Resourceful: Gain Heroic Inspiration after a Long Rest.

10. Orc

Orcs of Azeroth possess a unique history rooted in war, initially manipulated by demonic forces but later establishing their identity as proud warriors.

Orc Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Adrenaline Rush: Bonus Action to Dash and gain Temporary Hit Points.

11. Pandaren

Pandaren, originating from Pandaria, are known for their philosophies related to balance and wisdom, heavily influencing their culture.

Pandaren Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Inner Peace: Extra Hit Points during Short Rests.

12. Tauren

Tauren are powerful beings that embody strength and resilience, formed through their connection to nature and the Earth Mother.

Tauren Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Horns: Deal Piercing damage with Unarmed Strikes.

13. Troll

Azeroth’s trolls possess a rich cultural history and diversity, showcasing various lineages that represent different tribal legacies.

Troll Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Bloodied Frenzy: Advantage on attack rolls when Bloodied.

14. Vulpera

Vulpera are clever and agile fox-like humanoids from Vol’dun, now fighting alongside the Horde after centuries of oppression.

Vulpera Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Small
• Speed: 30 feet
• Fire Resistance: Resistance to Fire damage.

15. Worgen

Worgen, cursed night elf druids, navigate their dual nature as both human and wolf-like creatures, mastering their transformations over centuries.

Worgen Traits

• Creature Type: Humanoid
• Size: Medium
• Speed: 30 feet
• Darkflight: Bonus Action to transform into a bestial form.

Conclusion

The D&D World of Warcraft supplement is set to be released on November 17, 2026, providing players an opportunity to explore these captivating species. Pre-orders are available through various platforms such as local game stores, D&D Beyond, and Amazon.