Many World of Warcraft players were disappointed several months ago when they learned that the Blood Elf models would not be updated in time for Warlords of Draenor launch. Before BlizzCon, players had been informed that only the Classic races would receive a character model update. But after the 2013 convention, the Draenei and the Blood Elves were announced as well.
The Warcraft art team managed to deliver the new Draenei models, mostly since players would be interacting with them as much as the Orcs on the old world. This had caused players’ curiosity to grow from the other Burning Crusade race.
Unfortunately, Senior Art Director Chris Robinson explained on Twitter that the Blood Elf models are indeed being worked on, but that they would not be available for the launch of Warlords of Draenor.
Since that time it has become apparent that Blood Elves will not be up to par for launch. I sincerely apologize for setting that expectation. (Source)
We are working hard to complete the models and get them in-game, but that won’t happen until sometime post WoD launch. (Source)
Warlords of Draenor launched without the final race being complete. And it created a very different atmosphere as everyone (aside from the Pandaren–you were already amazing) were showing off “selfies” of their new updated characters. The old models simply stood out like a sore thumb.
Blood Elf Models Take Center Stage
The team has been working diligently to present the Blood Elf models to fans. In the latest Artcraft, they were finally pleased enough with the direction they were going to reveal both the female and male designs.
The Horde has classically been about brutes, blood, and thunder. The Blood Elves bring a bit of subtlety to the Horde, and I think that was one of the most important aspects of the Blood Elves to maintain. For the female specifically, something we did often was move things around in small but deliberate increments, to make sure everything was just right. It’s the delicate details like her nose shape or fingertips that represent the most challenging parts of upgrading the female. – Senior Artist Dusty Nolting
The male Blood Elf already has a lot of character with his easily recognizable pose and stylish hair. Our update just gives us a chance to define and focus on that. His anatomy, facial features, and hair will all get an update while still maintaining his iconic look, bringing him to the level of the other new character models. – Senior Artist Joe Keller
Currently, there is still no ETA on just when these models will be launched in Warlords. Currently, they are focusing on model and texture variations, as well as the rigging and animation. With all the practice they’ve had before on 9 other races, the process should go a little bit faster with very few bumps along the way.
Good-bye whitewashed face, hello expressions! I, personally, cannot wait to see how my Blood Elf Holy Paladin will look in the future. Amazing job by the Warcraft art team so far.
Are you excited to see these models in-game? Which model do you feel is the best so far?
