As a recovering World of Warcraft player (lvl 80 Night Elf Rogue named Pickleaxe), it is always fun to see what they are adding to this world I escaped. Today, for example, Blizzard releases their latest expansion, Mists of Pandaria, and it adds cute pandas. CUTE PANDAS, GUYS!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvYXoyxLv64&w=620]

“But what is new?” you ask. Well, certainly there are pandas in Pandaland, but let’s break it down from information found here:

New Race: Pandaren
Play as the noble and enigmatic Pandaren, a new race available to both Horde and Alliance players, and discover the secrets of their ancient and mystical homeland, Pandaria.

New Class: Monk
Unleash the martial might of the Monk, a new character class that joins the roster of available classes in World of Warcraft.

Battle to Level 90
Ascend to new heights of power as you explore the verdant reaches of the jade Forest, war with the terrible Yaungoi on Kun-Lai Summit, and unlock the secrets of the Mogu’shan Vaults.

Other features include:

  • Challenge Modes
    • Master the new Challenge Mode, compare your best times with your friends, and gain amazing rewards for your character!
  • Pet Battle System
    • Level up your vanity pets, teach them new abilities, and challenge your friends to friendly Pet Battles.
  • Scenarios
    • Join forces with your fellow heroes and embark on epic Scenarios that will challenge you like never before!
  • Talent Calculator
    • Customize your character with the new and improved Talent System.

Of course, there will also be new giant bosses and raids to contend with. My only question is how can some of these bad guys on panda island be more powerful than the Lich King? Panda magic, I guess.

Anyhow, make your way over to WorldofWarcraft.com if you are so inclined to get in on the pandaction (that’s panda + action). It costs 39 pandabux and 99 pandapennies.