WoW Forever Is Getting Standard-Definition Skyborne Models in 2027

Blizzard is making a visual change to the Skyborne, the new playable race coming with World of Warcraft: Forever, after feedback that their high-definition models don’t sit cleanly alongside the game’s classic look.

In a development update, the studio said standard-definition Skyborne player models are now in the works, including SD Druid forms. They’re planned for early 2027, after World of Warcraft: Forever launches on November 4.

The issue comes down to consistency. WoW: Forever already lets players swap between SD and HD models for the original races, since plenty of players still prefer the older character art. The Skyborne, however, were shown with HD models only. Blizzard says it agrees with players who felt that could look jarring next to SD characters and the older world art.

The team is also adjusting the Skyborne Druid forms that were already shown. Blizzard said it has reduced some of the softer look, added more detailed fur textures, and tweaked color saturation so the forms still feel distinct without looking out of place compared with other creatures.

For now, the SD Skyborne models are still early in development. Blizzard has shown a work-in-progress image and says more will be shared closer to release.

Further reading: Official WoW: Forever Skyborne visual updates post