Blizzard has confirmed: in World of Warcraft: Forever, add-on access will be limited following the retail model. The decision hits combat modifications hardest and clashes with the project's retro image.

Blizzard has confirmed: in World of Warcraft: Forever, add-on access will be restricted — the same way it's set up in the current version of the game. The decision turns the project toward retail and breaks with what Classic players are used to.

What was decided

• Add-on access will be limited — there will be no full freedom like in the older Classic expansions.
• The approach is taken from retail: instead of an open add-on manager, there'll be a filter and review of extensions.
• The hottest question is combat add-ons. The teaser with words about combat add-ons reads as a direct hint: combat helpers, boss timers and rotation assistants will most likely not pass the review.
• Forever is positioned as a retro project, so classic UI customisation freedom was never promised.

When this became known

Blizzard's confirmation came on 16 September 2026 — a day before the closed beta started (beta launches 17 September 2026, full release — 4 November 2026, 23:00 UTC).

What it means for you

If you're used to relying on WeakAuras, Deadly Boss Mods and similar modifications in combat, prepare in advance that some of your usual helpers won't work in Forever. The classic "free UI" has been replaced here with the retail approach. This may remove some automation, but it also takes Blizzard off the hook for keeping third-party modifications compatible with every raid.

Blizzard has not yet disclosed the details of the rules or the list of allowed categories.