Allied Races in World of Warcraft
Allied Races have grown beyond their Battle for Azeroth origins. These playable peoples bring distinct stories and racial abilities to the Horde, the Alliance, or both factions.
This guide covers the Alliance and Horde Allied Races, the Earthen from The War Within, and the Haranir from Midnight. It also explains the current unlock requirements.
Let's dive into the details of the available Allied Races for both factions and what makes them stand out, and of course, the most important thing - how to unlock Allied Races.
Table of content
What Are Allied Races?
Allied Races are playable peoples unlocked through recruitment quests or expansion story campaigns. Older Allied Races no longer require their original achievements or reputation grinds; the Earthen and Haranir have their own campaign requirements.
Here's a list of all the playable Allied Races:
| Horde Races | Alliance Races | Neutral Races |
|---|---|---|
| Nightborne | Void Elves | The Earthen |
| Highmountain Tauren | Lightforged Draenei | Haranir |
| Mag’har Orcs | Dark Iron Dwarves | |
| Zandalari Trolls | Kul’Tiran Humans | |
| Vulpera | Mechagnomes |
Once unlocked, Allied Race characters begin at level 10. A newly created Allied Race character can earn its Heritage Armor by leveling to 50 without a character boost.
How to unlock Allied Races:
- For the older Horde and Alliance Allied Races, have a level 40 character on your account, then complete the recruitment quests at your faction Embassy.
- For the Earthen, complete The War Within campaign and their related quests.
- For the Haranir, complete the Harandar level-up campaign in Midnight.
These quests will help you learn about the new race, their culture, and what makes them special.
Earthen and Haranir Allied Races
The Earthen joined World of Warcraft in The War Within and can choose the Alliance or the Horde. Complete the expansion campaign and their related quests to unlock them.
The Earthen are ancient beings formed from Azeroth's stone, with a deep connection to the planet's elemental forces. Recently freed from ancient constraints, they are eager to explore the world they have long been part of yet hidden from.
The Earthen are large, sturdy humanoids with stone-like skin in grey and blue.
Earthen have their own racial abilities, Heritage Armor and the Slatestone Ramolith mount. Learn more about the race and its unlock quests in our Earthen guide.
Haranir in Midnight
The Haranir can join either the Horde or the Alliance. Start the Midnight story in Silvermoon City and complete the Harandar level-up campaign to unlock them. Their home is Harandar, and their racial mount is the Ivory Grimlynx.
Haranir can play as Druids, Hunters, Mages, Monks, Priests, Rogues, Shamans, Warlocks or Warriors.
WoW Horde Allied Races
The unstoppable Horde is a team driven by unity and the fight for freedom. They protect their way of life and stand firm against threats, including the strict Alliance. This guide gives you all the info you need to unlock and play the Horde Allied Races.
Nightborne
Among the Horde's new allies are the Nightborne, a fascinating race from the ancient city of Suramar.
The Nightborne were isolated for 10,000 years behind a magical barrier. They evolved differently from night elves, with dark blue and purple skin, glowing tattoos, pale hair, and glowing blue eyes.
Unlocking the Nightborne
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Orgrimmar Embassy and complete the Nightborne recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Nightborne - Mount
Completing this Allied Races: Nightborne questline rewards players with the Nightborne Manasaber mount, a majestic creature that symbolizes the Nightborne’s deep connection to arcane power. This mount is available for any Horde race.
Nightborne Racial Traits
Nightborne characters bring unique racial abilities to the Horde, enhancing gameplay with their arcane prowess:
- Cantrips: Conjure an Eldritch Grimoire for mail access for 1.5 minutes.
- Arcane Pulse: Deal Arcane damage to nearby enemies and reduce their movement speed by 50% for 12 seconds.
- Ancient History: Increases Inscription skill by 15.
- Magical Affinity: Increases magical damage dealt by 1%.
- Arcane Resistance: Reduces Arcane damage taken by 1%.
Playable Classes
Nightborne characters can choose from a variety of classes, making them versatile additions to any team: Death Knight, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Warlock, Warrior.
Nightborne Heritage Armor Sets
By creating a new Nightborne character and reaching level 50 without using a character boost, players can earn the Heritage of the Nightborne achievement. This grants the Heritage Armor set, a cosmetic transmog that showcases the rich cultural legacy of the Nightborne. New Nightborne characters also receive the Shal'dorei Tabard upon creation.
Why Choose the Nightborne?
The Nightborne offer a unique blend of arcane power and a compelling backstory, making them a fascinating choice for Horde players. Their journey from seclusion to joining the Horde adds depth to their character, and their striking appearance sets them apart. With rich history, unique abilities, and prestigious Heritage Armor, the Nightborne are a great addition to any player's roster.
Highmountain Taurens
One of the coolest additions to the Horde is the Highmountain Tauren. They are proud descendants of the legendary hero Huln, who was a big deal in the War of the Ancients.
Highmountain Tauren resemble their Kalimdor cousins but are distinguished by their antler-like Horns of Eche'ro. This unique trait gives them a majestic, ancient appearance, symbolizing their deep connection to their heritage and the land they protect.
Unlocking the Highmountain Taurens
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Orgrimmar Embassy and complete the Highmountain Tauren recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Highmountain Taurense - Mount
The Highmountain Tauren mount, the Highmountain Thunderhoof, is a gift from the tauren. This highland moose is perfect for navigating the tough terrain of Highmountain. You unlock this mount by completing the Allied Races: Highmountain Tauren achievement.
Highmountain Taurens Racial Traits
Highmountain Tauren have special abilities that make gameplay fun:
- Bull Rush: Charge forward, knocking down enemies.
- Mountaineer: Boosts versatility.
- Pride of Ironhorn: Better mining skills and speed.
- Rugged Tenacity: Reduces damage taken.
- Waste Not, Want Not: Chance to get extra meat and fish.
Playable Classes
Highmountain Tauren can be: Death Knight, Druid, Hunter, Monk, Shaman, Warrior. This makes them versatile for any team.
Highmountain Taurens Heritage Armor Sets
If you create a Highmountain Tauren character and reach level 50 without using a boost, you'll get the Heritage of Highmountain Armor set. This is a cool cosmetic armor that shows off their cultural legacy. You'll also get the Highmountain Tabard when you create your character.
Why Choose the Highmountain Taurens?
Picking the Highmountain Tauren means choosing a race with a strong connection to nature and a heroic past. Their journey from ancient times to today shows their unity and resilience. And their unique abilities and awesome Heritage Armor make them a great choice for Horde players.
Mag'har Orcs
Uncorrupted orcs, in their time they refused to accept, fell from Gul´dan. They survived all cataclysms in Draenor. Many years ago horde united into the huge army and stepped across the dark portal. But many orcs remained in their own world.
Mag'har Orcs have brown skin, showing they resisted the demonic corruption that turned other orcs green. They proudly carry their ancestors' legacy, embodying the spirit of uncorrupted orcs.
Unlocking the Mag'har Orcs
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Orgrimmar Embassy and complete the Mag'har Orc recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Mag'har Orcs - Mount
The Mag'har Direwolf is more than just a mount, it's a symbol of the Mag'har Orcs' bond with their homeland. These strong, loyal wolves are perfect for exploring Azeroth. You unlock this mount by completing the Allied Races: Mag'har Orc achievement.
Mag'har Orcs Racial Traits
Mag'har Orcs have special abilities that make them great in battle:
- Ancestral Call: Invoke the spirits of your ancestors for a random combat boost.
- Open Skies: Increase mounted speed by 10%.
- Savage Blood: Reduce the duration of poisons, diseases, and curses by 10%.
- Sympathetic Vigor: Increase pet health by 10%.
Playable Classes
Mag'har Orcs can be: Death Knight, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warrior. This makes them versatile for any role.
Mag'har Orcs Heritage Armor Sets
Create a new Mag'har Orc character and level to 50 without using a character boost to earn the Heritage of the Mag'har achievement. This gives you the Heritage Armor set, a cosmetic armor that shows off the Mag'har Orcs' valor and tradition. New characters also get the Mag'har Tabard.
This Heritage Armor has three different tints, representing the Warsong, Blackrock, and Frostwolf Clans. It's the only Allied Race with multiple Heritage Armor colors.
Why Choose the Mag'har Orcs?
Choosing the Mag'har Orcs means picking a race known for its strength and unity. Their rich culture and unique abilities make them a great choice for any Horde player. Whether in PvP or PvE, the Mag'har Orcs add a unique and dynamic presence to the Horde.
Zandalari Trolls
The unstoppable Horde is united and fights for freedom. They strongly defend their way of life and stand firm against anyone, including the strict Alliance, who threatens their ideals.
Zandalari Trolls are tall and regal with golden skin, different from other trolls. They worship powerful gods called loa, which give them strength and spiritual depth, making them fierce warriors and revered mystics.
Unlocking Zandalari Trolls
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Orgrimmar Embassy and complete the Zandalari Troll recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Zandalari Trolls - Mount
The Zandalari Direhorn shows the Zandalari Trolls' mastery over their mighty beasts. These strong creatures are perfect for exploring Azeroth. You unlock this mount by completing the Allied Races: Zandalari Troll achievement, showing your commitment to the Horde.
Zandalari Trolls Racial Traits
Zandalari Trolls have special racial abilities:
- Embrace of the Loa: Choose a loa for a powerful blessing.
- Regeneratin': Quickly heal over a short time.
- City of Gold: Get more gold from all sources.
- Pterrordax Swoop: Slow your falling speed.
- Da Voodoo Shuffle: Shorten the duration of movement-impairing effects.
Playable Classes
Zandalari Trolls can be: Druid, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Paladin, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warrior, Death Knight. They fit into any team.
Zandalari Trolls Heritage Armor Sets
If you create a new Zandalari Troll character and reach level 50 without a boost, you get the Heritage Armor set, showing their rich culture. You also get the Zandalari Tabard when you create your character.
Why Choose the Zandalari Trolls?
Choosing the Zandalari Trolls means playing a race with deep history and a strong connection to the mystical world. Their unique abilities make them great for both PvE and PvP. With blessings from the loa and their strong presence, Zandalari Trolls bring a special power to the Horde.
Vulpera
The Vulpera have thrived in the harsh deserts of Vol'dun for generations, living in tight-knit caravans. These clever, adaptable fox-like creatures are invaluable for their cunning strategies and indomitable spirit.
The Vulpera draw their physical inspiration primarily from the fennec fox, known for its large ears and ability to survive in arid environments. Their culture blends Romani, Desi, and Imazighen influences, seen in their vibrant clothing, nomadic lifestyle, and communal values.
Unlocking Vulpera
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Orgrimmar Embassy and complete the Vulpera recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Vulpera - Mount
The Vulpera mount is the Caravan Hyena. It can be used by any Horde race upon completion of the recruitment scenario in Allied Races: Vulpera.
Vulpera players are able to further customize the Caravan Hyena by choosing to display the canopy on top of it or not. The canopy is on by default, and to put it down, all you need to do is interact with the Caravaneer's Pack in your camp, which will appear when using Make Camp.
Vulpera Racial Traits
Vulpera bring a bunch of special abilities that show off their survival skills and clever nature:
- Alpaca Saddlebags: Increases backpack size by 8 slots, perfect for hauling more loot.
- Bag of Tricks: With a 1.5-minute cooldown, this lets Vulpera use tricks to hurt enemies or heal allies, making it handy in fights.
- Rummage Your Bag: A 5-minute cooldown ability that lets Vulpera swap out tricks, showing their resourcefulness.
- Fire Resistance: Reduces fire damage, helpful in their desert home.
- Make Camp and Return to Camp: "Make Camp" sets up a base anywhere with no cooldown. "Return to Camp" (1-hour cooldown) teleports them back to camp, demonstrating their survival skills.
- Nose For Trouble: When you first take damage from an enemy, reduce that damage by 5% of your maximum health.
Playable Classes
Vulpera can be the following classes: Death Knight, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warlock, Warrior.
Vulpera Heritage Armor Sets
When you make a new Vulpera character and get to level 50 without using a boost, you can earn the cool Heritage Armor set. This armor is a mark of how Vulpera live and make things. It shows their nomad lifestyle, toughness, and smart designs that fit their desert world perfectly. You also get the Tabard of the Vulpera when you create your character.
Why Choose the Vulpera?
With their cool abilities and deep stories, the Vulpera bring new ideas and smart moves to the Horde. Their cleverness, ability to change, and sense of teamwork make them strong friends and a colorful part of World of Warcraft is big mix of Allied Races. Plus, they are super cute!
Wow Alliance Allied Races
The resolute Alliance is guided by long-standing traditions. In this section, we'll explore the Alliance allied races, covering how to unlock them, a bit of their lore, and their unique racial traits.
Void Elves
In Azeroth, few races are as mysterious as the Void Elves. Once Blood Elves, they embraced the Void's powers, resisting its corruption with willpower and discipline.
Void Elves stand out with their pale skin, intense blue eyes, and hair that ranges from deep purples to shimmering blues. Some sport dreadlocks resembling tentacles, hinting at their mysterious connection to the Void.
Unlocking Void Elves
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Stormwind Embassy and complete the Void Elf recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Void Elves - Mount
The Void Elf mount, the Starcursed Voidstrider, is a remarkable addition to the Alliance’s collection. This ethereal steed, cloaked in shimmering void energy, symbolizes the enigmatic power of the Void Elves. Upon completing the recruitment scenario for Allied Races: Void Elf, players are rewarded with this unique mount.
Void Elves Racial Traits
Void Elves possess special abilities that give them an edge in combat:
- Spatial Rift: Opens rifts in space for quick position changes, useful for strategy and surprise.
- Preternatural Calm: Reduces duration of interrupts and silences, strong in PvP and tough PvE.
- Chill of Night: Adds extra shadow damage to attacks, boosting offensive strength.
- Ethereal Connection: Reduces the cost of Void Storage and Transmogrification by 50%.
- Entropic Embrace: Transforms into shadow energy when facing fatal damage, showing their mastery of dark forces.
Playable Classes
Void Elves excel across a wide range of classes within the Alliance, including Death Knight, Demon Hunter, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Warlock, and Warrior. Their versatility makes them valuable in both offensive and supportive roles, making them reliable allies in the fight against darkness threatening Azeroth.
Void Elves Heritage Armor Sets
Reach level 50 on a Void Elf without a leveling boost to earn the Heritage of the Void Feat of Strength and the Ren'dorei Heritage Armor Set. This armor showcases the Void Elves' connection to dark energy with intricate designs and glowing motifs. Only Void Elves can wear it, making it a true symbol of their identity. You also get the Ren'dorei Tabard when you create your character.
Why Choose the Void Elves?
In conclusion, Void Elves embody defiance and mastery over arcane shadows. With unique abilities, striking appearance, and dedication to the Alliance, they are a formidable presence in World of Warcraft.
Lightforged Draenei
In the cosmic chaos of the Twisting Nether, the Lightforged Draenei stand as champions of the Holy Light. Originating from the Army of the Light, they have transcended their mortal forms through a sacred ritual, becoming living vessels of holy energy.
Physically, Lightforged Draenei have luminescent skin with glowing runes and radiant eyes, reflecting their transformation and inner strength.
Unlocking Lightforged Draenei
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Stormwind Embassy and complete the Lightforged Draenei recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Lightforged Draenei - Mount
Once unlocked, the Lightforged Felcrusher is more than just a ride. It's a companion in your quests and a symbol of your achievements. You can unlock this mount by completing Allied Races: Lightforged Draenei. Any Alliance race can use it, making it a versatile and valuable ally in different battles.
Lightforged Draenei Racial Traits
The Lightforged Draenei are known for their mastery of holy energies, which show in their special abilities:
- Light's Judgment: Unleash a powerful Holy strike on enemies, purging darkness with righteous power.
- Forge of Light: Summon a Forge of Light, boosting Blacksmithing skills and strengthening the Alliance's craftsmanship.
- Demonbane: Increased strength against demons, making them great at fighting the Legion's remnants.
- Light's Reckoning: Even in death, they deal Holy damage to enemies and help allies.
- Holy Resistance: Reduced damage from Holy attacks, making them tough against Holy Light enemies.
Playable Classes
As defenders of the Alliance, the Lightforged Draenei can be: Death Knight, Hunter, Mage, Paladin, Priest, and Warrior, each using the power of the Light to uphold justice and protect the innocent.
Lightforged Draenei Heritage Armor Sets
For reaching level 50 on a Lightforged Draenei without a leveling boost, you get the Heritage of the Lightforged Feat of Strength and the Lightforged Armor Set. Only Lightforged Draenei can transmog these items.
And you get the Lightforged Tabard when you create your character.
Why Choose the Lightforged Draenei?
The Lightforged Draenei show the strong spirit of the Alliance. They are brave, faithful, and dedicated to protecting Azeroth from threats. With their glowing presence and powerful abilities, they light the way to a future where justice wins and the Holy Light guides everyone.
Dark Iron Dwarves
Deep within Azeroth's fiery heart, where rivers of molten rock flow and the earth pulses with intense heat, dwell the formidable Dark Iron Dwarves. Their story of ancient conflicts and trials has made them resilient defenders and master craftsmen, now strong allies of the Alliance.
Dark Iron Dwarves are easily recognized by their rugged appearance, fiery red eyes, and hair that ranges from deep reds to intense oranges.
Unlocking Dark Iron Dwarves
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Stormwind Embassy and complete the Dark Iron Dwarf recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Dark Iron Dwarves - Mount
Owning the Dark Iron Core Hound is like wearing a badge of honor. It tells a story of battles and alliances in the fiery depths. You can unlock it by completing the recruitment scenario and get Allied Races: Dark Iron Dwarf, and all Alliance races can use it.
Dark Iron Dwarves Racial Traits
Their connection to the molten core manifests in unique racial abilities:
- Fireblood: Purge harmful effects and bolster resolve with their fiery heritage.
- Mass Production: Craft items swiftly due to their mastery of craftsmanship.
- Dungeon Delver: Navigate dungeons and unearth their secrets with ease.
- Forged in Flames: Reduces damage taken from Physical attacks by 1%.
- Mole Machine: Summon a machine to swiftly travel across great distances, showcasing their ingenuity.
Playable Classes
You can choose the following classes: Death Knight, Hunter (with a special pet), Mage, Monk, Paladin, Priest, Rogue, Shaman (with special totems), Warlock, Warrior.
Dark Iron Dwarves Heritage Armor Sets
Earn the Dark Iron Dwarf Heritage Armor set by reaching level 50 without a character boost. This gives you the Dark Iron Heritage Armor and the Heritage of the Dark Iron Feat of Strength. Only Dark Iron Dwarves can use this armor for transmog. You also get the Tabard of the Dark Iron when you create your character.
Why Choose the Dark Iron Dwarves?
The Dark Iron Dwarves embody the enduring spirit and resilience of their ancient lineage. With their fiery resolve and unwavering commitment, they light the path to a future of unity and strength in the Alliance. This choice is good and reliable.
Kul Tiran Humans
These skilled sailors, known for their naval prowess, were key to the Alliance of Lordaeron. However, internal strife and external threats led the kingdom into isolation, making it vulnerable to dark influences.
Kul Tiran Humans are known for their robust physiques and rugged features, reflecting their deep connection to their wild homeland. Some even have unique antler-like Horns of Eche'ro.
Unlocking Kul Tiran Humans
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Stormwind Embassy and complete the Kul Tiran Human recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites. The Battle of Dazar'alor raid is not required.
Allied Race Kul Tiran Humans - Mount
The Kul Tiran military is proud of their navy and their cavalry. You get the Kul Tiran Charger mount by completing the recruitment scenario for the Kul Tiran Human Allied Race. Any of your Alliance characters can use it.
Kul Tiran Humans Racial Traits
Kul Tiran Humans bring several unique abilities to the battlefield, enhancing their versatility and survivability:
- Brush It Off: This passive ability increases versatility and heals a portion of damage taken, reflecting their resilience.
- Child of the Sea: Kul Tirans can hold their breath longer and swim faster, embodying their seafaring heritage.
- Haymaker: A powerful punch that stuns and knocks back enemies, showcasing their physical strength.
- Jack of All Trades: Increases skill in all tradeskills, emphasizing their diverse talents.
- Rime of the Ancient Mariner: Reduces Frost and Nature damage taken, paying homage to their maritime roots.
Playable Classes
Kul Tiran Humans offer a wide range of class options, making them versatile members of the Alliance: Death Knight, Druid, Hunter, Mage, Monk, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warlock, Warrior.
Kul Tiran Humans Heritage Armor Sets
Creating a new Kul Tiran character and leveling them to 50 without a character boost will unlock the distinctive Heritage Armor set, symbolizing your dedication and the storied history of Kul Tiras. Also the Tabard of Kul Tiras completes the set.
Why Choose the Kul Tiran Humans?
Choosing Kul Tiran Humans means embracing a race with a deep sea connection and rich history. Their unique abilities and striking appearance make them great for any Alliance player. This race add strength, versatility, and cultural heritage to your adventures in Azeroth, enriching your gameplay.
Mechagnomes
Mechagnomes, a mix of gnomish ingenuity and advanced tech, come from the isle of Mechagon. They aimed to surpass their mortal limits by integrating mechanical enhancements into their bodies.
Mechagnomes are easily recognized by their mechanical limbs, including arms, legs, and ocular enhancements. This tech integration gives them a distinct, futuristic look.
Unlocking Mechagnomes
Have a level 40 character on your account, then visit the Stormwind Embassy and complete the Mechagnome recruitment questline. Older story achievements and reputation requirements are no longer prerequisites.
Allied Race Mechagnomes - Mount
Additionally, the Mechagon Mechanostrider, a mount designed for both speed and utility, is awarded upon completion of the Allied Races: Mechagnome achievement. This mount is perfect for navigating Azeroth and reaching high places with ease.
Mechagnomes Racial Traits
Mechagnomes possess several unique abilities that make them formidable allies on the battlefield:
- Combat Analysis: Continuously increases your primary stat as you fight the same target.
- Hyper Organic Light Originator: Summons decoys to distract your foes.
- Emergency Failsafe: Heals you when you fall below a certain health threshold.
- Skeleton Pinkie: Unlocks chests and doors.
- Mastercraft: Provides a variety of engineering bonuses.
Playable Classes
Mechagnomes can choose from a diverse array of classes, making them versatile members of any team. They can be Death Knights, Hunters, Mages, Monks, Priests, Rogues, Warlocks, and Warriors.
Mechagnomes Heritage Armor Sets
Creating a new Mechagnome character and leveling them to 50 without a character boost unlocks the distinctive Heritage Armor set, symbolizing their dedication. Of course, you will also receive the Mechagonian Tabard!
Why Choose the Mechagnomes?
Choosing Mechagnomes means embracing a race that blends technology and tradition. Their unique abilities and futuristic look make them a great choice for any Alliance player seeking ingenuity in their adventures.
Final Thoughts
As World of Warcraft continues to evolve, the Allied Races roster has grown. The Earthen and Haranir can each join either faction, while older races retain their Horde or Alliance identity.
These races encourage players to explore new stories and forge new alliances, deepening their engagement with the game's expansive lore.
For new and veteran players, Allied Races offer fresh opportunities to experiment with racial traits and classes, enhancing tactics in PvP and strategies in PvE.
Change Log
- 18.06.2018 - Allied races in Battle for Azeroth: which race to choose and why published.