t is six years before the beginning of the current struggle between the Alliance and the Horde. Since the brutal Second War between the orcs and humans ended nearly fifteen years prior, Azeroth had been enjoying a time of relative calm unusual throughout its volatile history. An uneasy peace settled over the land while the drums of war were silent. The kingdoms of men grew complacent in their victory, and the defeated orcish clans have been regrouping under the banner of a new visionary leader.

Now, a darker shadow has fallen over the world, threatening to extinguish all life - all hope. The drums of war play upon the winds once again - rising urgently toward the inevitable hour when the skies will rain fire - and the world will tremble before the coming of the Burning Legion.

The Day of Judgment has come... and the Third War shall begin.

lizzard Entertainment is proud to announce the forthcoming real-time strategy game set in the World of Warcraft universe, Warcraft: Heroes of Azeroth! As a prequel to World of Warcraft, Warcraft: Heroes of Azeroth details the events leading up to the creation of the Alliance and Horde. For the first time ever, you will be able to witness firsthand the momentous events that predated World of Warcraft, as well as the origins of famous World of Warcraft figures such as Illidan Stormrage and Lady Sylvanas Windrunner. You will also meet a brand-new villain more insidious than any the land has seen: the death knight Arthas Menethil.

Warcraft: Heroes of Azeroth features a mix of battle tactics, resource management, and base building. The four playable factions offer different play styles that are based on each faction's strengths and weaknesses. Create dozens of units and buildings based on the colorful locations and denizens of World of Warcraft - it will be like experiencing a whole different side of Azeroth!

The brand-new addition of Heroes also ties in a key element of World of Warcraft: a powerful champion who advances in levels and gains equipment such as magical weapons and armor. As in World of Warcraft, the heroes have unique class abilities and skills. The heroes are also key figures in Warcraft lore, and they include the likes of Thrall, Kel'Thuzad, and Jaina Proudmoore. Heroes gain experience for each enemy they defeat, growing increasingly powerful as they lead your forces to victory!

Featuring deep yet accessible real-time-strategy gameplay, as well as abundant Blizzard storytelling, Warcraft: Heroes of Azeroth will provide endless hours of single-player and multiplayer gaming for World of Warcraft players as well as those new to Blizzard games.