World of Warcraft Getting Major Pre-Lich King Patch, Brings Lich King Content to Current Game

As Blizzard prepares for the looming Q4 release of its World of Warcraft expansion pack Wrath of the Lich King, the company has revealed that it will be adding some of the expansion's new features and content to the PC MMO in the form of a free patch.

"We will be issuing a new content patch in the coming weeks," Blizzard rep Eyonix posted on the game's official forums. "Much like the patch made available shortly before The Burning Crusade's release, this content patch is designed to bridge current game content with that of the expansion and will contain some exciting changes."

A partial list of the changes and additions follows:

New class spells and talents

Barbershops in capital cities

Two brand-new Arenas featuring challenging new layouts, terrain hazards, and moving obstacles

Stormwind Harbor

Zeppelin towers outside of Orgrimmar and Tirisfal Glades

Guild calendar

Hunter pet skill revamp

New profession: Inscription

"This is not a comprehensive list, just some of the major highlights," cautioned Eyonix.

The Blizzard representative also explained the inclusion of Inscription, noting that "all Burning Crusade players will be able to select Inscription as one of their two professions and level up to a skill level of 375 with it," with those that purchase Lich King able to continue leveling Inscription and other professions beyond 375.