At BlizzCon 2026, Blizzard surprised many by announcing World of Warcraft Forever, a fresh take on the enduring massively multiplayer online role-playing game. This "Classic Plus" version, long-requested by fans and partially hinted at previously, captivated attendees with its extensive scope. A standout revelation was the game's official, robust gamepad support, a first for the franchise, traditionally played with a keyboard and mouse. The developers highlighted that this inclusion is primarily about enhancing player experience and accessibility, not foreshadowing a console launch.

Nora Valletta, lead software engineer, emphasized that World of Warcraft Forever is envisioned as a distinct pillar within the World of Warcraft universe, offering a chance to innovate across various aspects, including player interaction. She explained that gamepad support aligns with Blizzard's broader commitment to player agency and accessibility, allowing players to choose how they engage with the game. Tim Jones, lead game designer, reinforced this, stating that excellent controller support is a crucial accessibility feature, similar to colorblindness modes and screen narration, enabling more players to enjoy the game in their preferred manner.

The development team extensively play-tested the control scheme for Xbox and PlayStation controllers, learning from both community-created solutions and other MMOs like Final Fantasy 14, but aiming for an intuitive and natural feel. They designed a sophisticated mapping system: the left bumper for friendly targeting, the right for enemies, and analog sticks for movement and environmental interaction. Spells and attacks are assigned to the d-pad and face buttons, with triggers used to cycle through action sets. Players can experience this new control scheme during the beta on September 17, ahead of the full launch of World of Warcraft Forever on November 4.

This innovative approach to player input in World of Warcraft Forever demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and player comfort, reinforcing the idea that gaming should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their preferred control method. By embracing gamepad support, Blizzard opens its legendary world to a wider audience, fostering a more connected and diverse community.