The 5 Best Warcraft Games of All Time, Ranked

In the years since its inception, Blizzard's Warcraft franchise has given birth to some of the most iconic and beloved games in the history of the medium. From the original real-time strategy game that started it all to the massively multiplayer online juggernaut, World of Warcraft, there are plenty of Warcraft games to choose from. But which ones are the best?

In this post, we will rank the five best Warcraft games of all time, from least to most iconic. So whether you're a diehard fan or just getting into the series, this list is sure to have something for you.

5. The Burning Crusade

It is only fitting to pay homage to the first expansion of the World of Warcraft series. The Burning Crusade was released in 2007 as the franchise's first MMORPG. The game introduces the two playable races: the Alliance and the Horde, into the Warcraft universe. Also, the game features an army of demons making a return after their glorious defeat in Warcraft III: Region of Chaos. 

As with other WOW games, you choose a side to play and battle against the returning antagonist. The game's play area is still set to Azeroth but with added areas. You'll also get to explore Outland's derelict land under powerful beings' control. 

Moreover, the expansion also features a Heroic mode for dungeons, which increases the difficulty and rewards. Critics praised The Burning Crusade for its new content, particularly the new races and dungeons. However, some felt that the level cap increase was too small and that Blizzard did not do enough to address WoW's endgame content problem. Nevertheless, The Burning Crusade is a successful expansion, selling over 2.4 million copies in its first month.

4. Cataclysm

The Cataclysm expansion for World of Warcraft is often considered one of the best in the game's history. Released in 2010, it added a ton of new content to the game, including new zones, dungeons, and raids. Moreover, the game now includes a maximum player level of 85 from 80.

The third Blizzard expansion also introduced a new race (the Worgen) and a new class (the Death Knight). The expansion's story is also well throughout, with many players enjoying the dark tone and direction it takes in the game. 

Furthermore, the game features a redesign of Azeroth with close to 3500 new quests. You will also witness ten marvelously designed dungeons and experience new raids. Overall, Cataclysm is an excellent Warcraft game expansion and is worth checking out for any fan of World of Warcraft.

3. Battle for Azeroth

Blizzard's Battle between the Alliance and the Horde factions has always been the core of the Warcraft series. In this seventh expansion released in 2018, you are taken to the continent of Zandalar and Kul Tiras, where you must help the Horde rebel against an Alliance invasion. The expansion features new zones, new dungeons and raids, a new PvP mode, and more.

Battle for Azeroth is a return to form for Blizzard after the lackluster Legion expansion. There's so much you can do in this game. Using the precious Heart of Azeroth neckpiece, you can customize your armor with more traits and power. In addition to the relentless conflict in the divided world, you can explore Azeroth as part of the Allied Races and forge alliances. The newly found friendship will add strength to your faction and let you unlock new races. 

Moreover, you'll encounter mysterious magic, rowdy pirates, and mystical sea pirates in the land of Kul Tiras.  Loaded with content and a ton of value, this is genuinely another Blizzard masterpiece for World of Warcraft fans. If you're looking for the best Warcraft game, look no further than Battle for Azeroth.

2. Legion

Released in 2016, Legion is the sixth expansion to World of Warcraft and takes place in the Broken Isles, a new continent once home to the night elves. Legion attempts to reintroduce the balance of power previously witnessed in Cataclysm. In the game, the greatest threat to Azeroth. Legion makes a return. This is after the conniving warlock, Gu'ldan, sets it loose.

The storyline revolves around the Burning Legion's attempts to invade Azeroth and the player's fight to stop them. Due to the invasion, the Alliance and Hoards must team up against the threat. However, the mighty Legion soon thwarts the efforts. You then must seek the Pillars of Creation that will close the Twisting Nether portals. Moreover, the expansion adds a new class, the Demon Hunter, and raises the level cap to 110. 

To new fans of the franchise, the tales may sound confusing. However, a few hours into the game will get you roped in. You'll also notice a few strong characters being killed off in the beginning- a classic Game of Thrones technique. If you choose to stick to the Alliance function, Legion will undoubtedly give you an unfathomable experience from start to finish. 

1. Wrath of the Lich King

After the successful launch of the Burning Crusade, Blizzard released the second expansion into the game: Wrath of the Lich King in 2008. The game takes place in the frigid tundra of Northrend, where you must face off against the Lich King, Arthas Menethil, and his army of the undead. Once again, the Horde and the Alliance merge to take down the all-powerful mythological god.

This expansion is one of the best Warcraft Games, as it introduces a ton of new and exciting content that keeps you hooked for hours on end. The death knight class is especially popular, as it gives players a new way to experience the game. The level cap increase also allows for more high-level content and makes progress in the game feel much more rewarding.

You can also explore the expansive terrain of Northrend, packed with new dungeons, missions, monsters, and items. If you're looking for an expansion pack that will keep you entertained for hours on end, Wrath of the Lich King is a great Warcraft game worth checking out.

From our list of  best Warcraft Games of all Time which title do you think is the best? Is there any other WOW game we should include in the list? Share your pick with us in the comments below or over on our socials here!