19/06 On the topic of opening new realms | 6/26/2006 3:10:36 AM PDT


(Re-posted)

We'd like to just give a small update on the topic of new realms.

Opening new realms is based on population on existing realms and expected population increase in the time ahead. We aim for a thriving population on all realms, adjusting this with migration and the Recommended tags. As long as the majority of the fairly new realms of a given type has the Recommended tag we generally do not consider opening new realms of the type.

Opening new realms is not based on whether we expect a new realm to fill up quickly, i.e. “popular request” is not considered a main argument for opening new realms.
Additionally, the argument of “ganking” making older PvP realms being unsuitable for starting new characters is not weighted heavily. This is the nature of any realm with a PvP ruleset, including any “fresh” realm within a month. If this was to be a factor in considering new realms we would need to open PvP realms every month resulting in a large number of very empty realms. And opening new realms then merging low populated ones in a never-ending cycle is not considered a good solution to a problem that can be avoided altogether.

Status at the moment

Normal / PvE: Aerie Peak opened last week, and is filling up nicely. Eonar (opened in April) is Recommended, and more realms are likely to receive the tag on Wednesday. No new PvE realm planned at this time, but if Aerie Peak continues to grow like it has so far this might change soon.
PvP: Jaedenar, Vek'Nilash and Boulderfist (opened in April) all Recommended, together with 10+ other realms. Some older realms at low population following migration and currently receiving migration to change this. No plans for new realms until further notice.
RP: Steamwheedle Cartel is Recommended, but Moonglade can also take a good influx of players. No plans to open a new realm at this time.
RP PvP: Two of four realms recommended, the latest one (Ravenholdt) opened in April. No plans for new realms at this time.