World of Warcraft is launching in a few days with its latest expansion “Midnight”. Some may even get to start earlier than others due to Early Access. When it starts and how you can play earlier is explained here.
When does Early Access start? Early Access is scheduled for February 27, 2026, at midnight – that is, at 00:00 at the start of the day. Those without early access must wait until March 3, 2026, as that is when the actual release begins for all purchasers of the DLC.
How long does the EA phase last? Early Access lasts for 4 days and then ends as mentioned above with the actual release on March 3.
How to join Early Access
What do I need to do to play in Early Access? To also be part of Early Access, you need to purchase the Epic Edition of Midnight, which costs 90 €. Besides Early Access, you will also receive some dealer currencies and cosmetic items for your heroes, fitting the theme of the expansion.
What can I play with Early Access? According to our experiences gained from previous releases of expansions in World of Warcraft, there are a variety of things you will have access to.
Primarily, it’s about:
- The majority of the main story
- All new areas
- Nearly all quests
- Access to new dungeons
If you are eager for endgame content, you will have to wait a bit longer. Dungeons on Mythic+ and higher-tier depths and more will only be available after Early Access and then somewhat delayed at the start of the first season of Midnight.
Raids will also open later and in stages, and additional campaign quests that may connect to the Midnight story will also appear.
Housing is at least already available. You can decorate your own home.
That was the most important information about the upcoming Early Access of WoW: Midnight. Will you be at the start or are you waiting for the normal release? We also have a comprehensive overview with the most important information about the release. There you will find details about prices, editions, and the start time: WoW Midnight: Release, Raids, Early Access – Everything about the next expansion
