When does the WoW Forever beta start?
The announced beta start is September 17, 2026. As of this guide’s September 15 check, that date is still ahead. We have not verified a precise opening hour.
How to join the WoW Forever beta
This is an eligibility checklist based on the announced packs. We have not tested the beta installation flow and cannot verify a client-menu label yet.
- Visit the Battle.net Shop and find World of Warcraft: Forever.
- Check the Skyborne Epic Pack or Warcraft Forever Collection for explicit beta access and regional terms.
- Confirm the Battle.net account before purchasing. When testing opens, follow Blizzard’s installation instructions for the Forever beta client.
Does a WoW subscription include the beta?
The announcement includes subscription access at launch; it separately ties beta access to eligible upgrade packs. Do not assume a regular subscription or the Heroic Pack alone grants beta entry.
Before you install
Our practical advice: save your purchase receipt and the edition description so you can explain an access issue clearly.
- Keep beta and launch dates separate when planning a play session.
- Check official launcher messages for availability and maintenance.
- If access is missing, compare the account and edition on your receipt with the account signed into Battle.net.
- Use official support for an entitlement problem; a search result claiming free keys does not establish eligibility.
Beta FAQ: timing, progress and scope
| Question | What we can verify |
|---|---|
| Is a beta key required? | The announcement describes pack-based access. We have not verified a separate key-redemption process. |
| Will progress carry over? | Not verified in the official information reviewed for this guide. Avoid planning launch progress around a test character. |
| Is the beta level cap 60? | Level 60 describes the launch journey, not a verified beta cap. |
| Where is the full game guide? | Use the guide hub link for launch information, races, classes and zones. |