In the world of World of Warcraft Classic Era and Anniversary realms, acquiring the ability to use mounts is a significant milestone for players, typically achievable at level 40. Mounts dramatically increase travel speed across the vast landscapes of Azeroth, offering a much faster alternative to simply running. The journey to mount proficiency involves learning the riding skill and purchasing the mount itself.
The cost to learn the basic riding skill from a mount trainer is 20 gold. Following this, players can find a mount vendor, usually located near the trainer, to purchase their first mount. At level 40, players can acquire regular mounts that provide a 60% increase in ground speed for 80 gold. Later, at level 60, the option for epic mounts becomes available, offering a 100% increase in ground speed for a price of 1000 gold. These are the base costs, but players have opportunities to reduce these expenses. A 20% discount can be achieved through a combination of factors: a 10% discount is applied for reaching PvP rank 3, and another 10% discount on both training and mount purchases is granted by achieving the Honored reputation rank with the associated race’s faction.
It’s important to note that riding skills in WoW Classic are not universal. Instead, they teach players how to use a specific type of mount and are race-specific. This initially restricts players to using mounts that are native to their chosen race.
Alliance Mounts
Alliance players can find their mount trainers and vendors in various cities depending on their race. Humans and Gnomes can train in the capital city of Stormwind, while Dwarves and Night Elves will need to travel to Darnassus. The specific locations within these cities are generally marked on the map once a player is at the appropriate level and has the gold.
Horde Mounts
Horde players also have race-specific training locations. Orcs and Trolls will seek out their trainers in Orgrimmar. The Tauren race trains in Mulgore, specifically in Bloodhoof Village. Undead characters can find their mount trainer in the Undercity.
Learning Other Races’ Mounts
While players can learn the mount riding skill for other races, this capability is unlocked only when they reach the Exalted reputation with that specific race’s faction. Despite this, certain racial restrictions on mount types persist. For instance, Tauren are unable to ride the skeletal horse mounts typically used by the Undead, nor can they use raptor mounts. Similarly, Humans and Night Elves are prevented from using the Mechanostrider mounts, which are favored by Gnomes.
Class-Specific Mounts
Two classes, Warlocks and Paladins, possess unique advantages regarding mounts. They can learn to summon regular mounts directly through class-specific quests that become available at level 40. Paladins who have completed the Tome of Nobility quest, which can be initiated by speaking with Duthorian Rall in the Cathedral of Stormwind City, will learn the spell to Summon Warhorse. Warlocks, on the other hand, must travel to Ratchet and converse with Strahad Farsan to acquire the knowledge for Summon Felsteed. These class-specific mounts are a significant perk, offering immediate access to a mount without needing to purchase one from a vendor.
In conclusion, navigating the world of mount acquisition in WoW Classic Era and Anniversary realms requires understanding racial associations, reputation benefits, and class-specific quests. By strategically managing reputation and completing relevant quests, players can expedite their journey to faster travel and unlock the full potential of their mount collection.
