Salutations and good day fellow forum dwellers! With Dragonflight incoming with continuously daring speeds, I’ve decided to brave the lands of the online Forums. I normally don’t venture on here, in fact, I do believe I can count the started threads of mine on one hand… Please be gentle.
It should be noted, that I would highly recommend reading this guide on the document it was created, as it is far more pleasing on the eyes than the forum allows:
Link to the Google Docs here!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_aWTTpXYZXfcVd4jpvlBHnn9QxKFw8MiR1f5SnJq9R8/edit?usp=sharing
WARNING though: this post is text heavy. Continue at your own risk!
Foreword
Something I’ve been working on for a while now, is a guide. A guide you ask? Yes. A guide! A guide to the oft sneered at and easily misjudged players who find themselves drawn to ‘Exotic Concepts’
Concepts like Demons, Dragons and everything in between. All of which carry a myriad of terrible stigmas and - I’ll admit - oft well-earned stereotypes. Quite often, the exotic races are chosen by the ‘rule of cool’ - and even more often so without any proper look into the lore that surrounds the race in question.
The over all hope is that we can utterly smash the stigmas, crush the stereotypes and utilize exotic characters for the narrative goody juice they can be! For when done right, the inclusion of an exotic character can create some truly jaw dropping, gut-wrenchingly epic story plots that leaves players wanting more.
Many things in this world can be great in moderation. The same goes with exotic characters. The same goes with any character, really. Maybe you remember that one really cool villain NPC from a campaign who had all the right quirks and funny remarks. Maybe it was that one good-hearted old creature you met as a plot-hook for a story in your guild. My point is; any character - when written well - can work as a players character. Be they human. Undead. Dragon or otherwise.
So who am I to tell you all of this? I have the audacity of a rowdy lover of the narrative arts who has been lucky enough to tread the stage of Warcraft for the last fifteen years as of the writing of this document.
I by no means started out as a good roleplayer, mind. I am as much at fault for falling into the pitfalls of exotic characters as the next high-fantasy lover. But over time, I learned to appreciate the little things that help make one such character work.
This guide aims to plant a few thought-seeds into the minds of the reader, asking the ‘what if’ and ‘why’ questions among others. While providing a brief descriptor of commonly encountered exotic races.
I’ve begun with a handful - but others may make the list if there’s interest for it. Mind. I will say this here and now;
I highly encourage anyone reading this, who wants to create an exotic character to go on wowpedia and go nuts reading up on the race they find interesting. And I mean really go nuts. Go ham, crazy. Suck up the knowledge like a freshly cleaned out vacuum.
Disclaimer:
It is important to note that this guide is meant to be just that. A guide. It is by no means ‘the only way’ to roleplay any of these exotic races whatsoever. It is a guide to provide aid to the reader - to help them avoid some of the multitudinous pitfalls that exist when roleplaying exotic characters. A set of tools to help you set up a believable character on your own. There are likely many more ways out there!
Now without further ado, let’s get into the word-vomit.
A Roleplayer’s Compendium - Roleplaying Exotic Characters
Setting the Stage
Before you even begin going into a keyboard-smashing, headbanging, super-typing mode of utter epicness, you need to cool your head down and stop to think. Think about how you’re going to grab this concept by the proverbial horns and ensure that what you’re creating won’t become yet another cemented stereotype for whichever character you’re creating.
Too many players already create the almighty creature. Like a massively old, powerful and unstoppable dragon with little to no flaws. Or the big bad and often pop-culturesque san’layn that well and truly have nothing to do with WoW and more to do with the latest Twilight fanfic.
There are several things to consider before you begin your journey on your latest character to join your rosters. Plenty of questions to ask yourself.
The Why
The very first question you have to ask yourself when you want to create an exotic character is rather simple, all things considered. You have to ask yourself ‘why’ - why do you want them to be an exotic race? “Why should this character be _____ when you can just make them a _____?”
Sometimes the answer can be simple and still perfectly valid. It could be because you are just an absolute, loveable nerd when it comes to this or that race’s lore! Maybe it’s because you want to utilize particular traits from the race in question. Or maybe you ‘just think they’re neat’ - in essence, you have to think about why it’s so important to you that your character is this race and not one of the ‘normal’ and more readily accepted ones.
Take myself and my dragon as an example:
She’s a damn old ancient wyrm with ties to the Blue Dragonflight. Why that and not say… an old elf? To me, the reasons are more than just one. As they undoubtedly will be for most out there!
For me, it was because I wanted someone I could use as a driving point in other people’s stories. A narrator. A quest giver if you would. Someone who would be able to teach and forward character building in others in a depth that an old elf might not have been.
There is nothing I enjoy more than seeing other characters thrive and grow. Especially when I’m part of that reason. And creating an ancient dragon with plentiful knowledge of magic and history, being able to guide people forward? Proved utterly perfect in my case.
Could I make it fit into another race if I wanted to? I could certainly make efforts to make it work if I really tried. But do I want to? Not really. It’s simply not as appealing to me from a narrative point of view. And after all; we all want to roleplay something we actually enjoy. Same concept as a job, really!
Of course. I’d be entirely lying if I said it wasn’t also because I am a HUGE dragon nerd. A lore aficionado who can and will spend hours with her head in the wikis. In the books with a notepad next to her, taking copious amounts of notes from in-game items and quests for future plots, campaigns and stories alike. It also means that I can pull out references aplenty to what I’m doing, or what my character is and why. Something that is - sadly - often needed when roleplaying an exotic character.
You will undoubtedly reach a point in time when you create an exotic character, where someone gives you a whisper of “Excuse me, do you have a reference of how ____ can work when ____ is a thing?” or something of similar nature. When these folk prod you and essentially scream “Site your sources b*tch!” - there are few things more satisfying than being able to pull out a reference to stick in their face and watch how quickly they turn attitudes from ‘I’m going to teach this boso a lesson’ to ‘o-oh I guess that’s… that’s a thing… Woops…’
Which of course, leads us directly into my next point!
Knowing the How
No matter what race you want your character to belong to, you have to know about them. The race. The lore behind it. The more you know about the race and its history, culture, so on and so forth - the better dressed you’ll be to conceptualize the character in a way that makes sense. Not only to you, but to your fellow roleplayers.
As roleplayers, we do not want to outright break the lore. Unless you only roleplay with a small group of folks with their own set of acceptable lore points and what have you (which is also perfectly fine and acceptable!) You’ll probably want to stick to the lore as is in the eye of the public.
Now bending the lore to fill in gaps happens. It often has to. Blizzard has by no means given us the full story of absolutely everything. In fact, lore is often waved off ‘because magic’ happens. Or little unknown quips here and there. That means it’s up to us players to fill in the gaps. This may often happen through ‘common sense’ (which may not be the same to everyone) and real life references.
There comes a time however, where the line between logic gap-filler turns to outright headcanon. Which… well and truly is not a problem. Mostly. The time when it becomes a problem however, is when headcanon is forced down the throat of others as fact.
Be mindful of this, when you attempt to fill in gaps; remember that not everyone sees things the same way as you yourself might. Remember that WoW’s lore is often heavily open to interpretation. Interpretation that may not always be shared. As such; do not force your headcanons onto others. Learn how to handle In-Character confrontations where your headcanon may be challenged.
Furthermore, you’ll have to learn how to deal with other players. You’re not roleplaying Jack from the engineering stall or the classic soldier from this or that regiment. You have to expect that you will be held to a far higher standard than any ‘normal’ concept. Flaws, mistakes and what have you that would normally be shrugged off in front of a normal concepted character will more often than not be held under definite scrutiny to your exotic concept.
Expect squints, scoffs and even - as annoying as it is - laughs and the potential rumor mongering. Rise above them. Show any and all naysayers that you do have those high standards to yourself as well.
Conceptualizing Corporealism
Now that you’ve asked yourself the why’s and you know the how’s… It’s time to get cracking at creating your character with everything that comes with it.
An important thing to note while you create this concept is to keep the following in mind:
Is it feasible?
Is your concept feasible, that is. How much would you have to bend the rules and the lore to make it work? I once had the pleasure to encounter a - I kid you not - living worgen san’layn who had just given birth. Obviously; concepts like this are very out there, breaking so many avenues that it’s almost preposterous.
How could that concept be made to work? Let’s take it as an example of how an absurd concept can be tweaked to fit the confines of lore and still fit the bill of what the player wants.
If they want to be a san’layn. There’s not much to do. San’layn are dead, not alive. And only three races have been labeled as San’layn; elves, vrykul and humans. But if they want to be able to utilize the skills that san’layn possess while still being alive… Why, suddenly we enter a whole new world of possibilities.
Let’s say the player wants to be alive and wants to be able to utilize such abilities. Easy! (somewhat at least) - How about a living hemomancer who takes inspiration from the san’layn in their spells? Huh?
My point is: if you find the base parts of your concept. What you want in pure, raw essence. Then it is often easier to fit that to a race.
Whatever reason you have to play this or that race, there are several questions you can - and should - ask yourself to conceptualize the character in question. As mentioned in the previous points; always start by asking yourself why. When you’ve cemented your reason, it’s time to get cracking on the keyboard!
So let’s get into it, shall we? Below here you’ll find my go-to list of questions I’ll often ask myself when creating and building a new character:
What race are they?
1.1 Figure out which race suits you best. Your concept and your wishes.Does their race have a leader?
2.1 Most races, be they human, orc or dragon - have some kind of leader. Often these leaders are a source for inspiration. Other times, a source of hatred or shame.
2.2 Think about how your character feels about said leader!How old are they?
3.1 Consider their age! Age often plays right in with wisdom and knowledge. Not to mention how high the standards you’ll be held to will be; it’s often easier to feign ignorance on a young character than it is an ancient one.Do they need a disguise or a visage? If so, what?
4.1 For many of the exotic races, having a visage or a disguise is almost a necessity. Dragons and demons, for example, fall into this category. Consider which visage this would be and why. An example could be a Blue Dragon taking the guise of a highborne mage to learn more of their magical culture. Or take a demon, taking the guise of a human noble to infiltrate political circles for power.
4.2 Mind, not all visages are meant as an outright disguise. For some, it may be perfectly well known what they truly are; but it’s for the benefit of their ‘mortal’ friends and allies. It can often be far more comfortable around someone your own size and looks than wandering around in the shade of enormous wings for example.What events have they been present for in the past? And what did they do in these events?
5.1 By events I mean historic events. Events like the War of the Ancients, Opening of the Dark Portal, Fall of Deathwing, Wars… So on and so forth.
5.2 What did your character do in these events if they were present? How did they react to the news of these events? This is a particular point in where you get to build important parts of your character’s backstory!What kind of events have they been subjected to not in-lore? How have they helped to shape them?
6.1 Character-specific points in their story that changed fundamental things about them or shaped them into who they are now. The loss of a loved one? Meeting someone who cemented points of view?Why would they visit various places around the world?
7.1 Why would your character visit a capital city? An inn? A historic location? What do they stand to gain from the visit?Why and how would your character team up with others?
8.1 A band of heroes? Mercenaries? Others of their own kind? Ask yourself what would be beneficial to your character to join various kinds of groups.What kind of changes might you need to implement to make your concept feasible?
9.1 This could be anything from ‘good’ demons and black dragons to helpful naga and spiteful val’kyr. What kind of lore-friendly matters can you utilize to make that concept work? Mind, this question is often only needed for very specific concepts.Does your character’s race have an overall goal? Does your character share this goal themselves?
10.1 A simple question, really. Most races - especially those with leadership figures - have a set goal they wish to achieve. But does your character follow it? And why?Does your character hide their true identity?
11.1 Plenty of races hide their real selves; particularly demons. Regardless; they all have a reason to do so. If your character does so, what is their reason for doing so?
11.2 Is there any situation where your character would reveal their true self if they do hide their identity?
11.3 If your character doesn’t hide themselves, what’s the reason for it?Think about character Strength and more importantly; flaws!
12.1 Strengths can come in handy. Think about what your character may excel at. But try not to go overboard. It’s easy to say they’re good at everything, but where would the place for learning and growth be if that was the case?
12.2 Perhaps even more importantly is character flaws. They by no means have to be crippling. But something that your character can struggle with. Something that can give them depth in a given situation. This could be anything from overwhelming overconfidence, to a phobia or a simple clumsiness.Think long term - how do you want your character to grow?
13.1 While not necessary to compile. It is something I highly suggest you at least give a pause to think about. What kind of roleplay do you enjoy the most, and how do you put your character on that path?
13.2 Think about what you want your character to accomplish. Perhaps they wish to learn a new spellcraft. Perhaps they have a dream of conquering a world! Who knows!
Please know of course. That you don’t NEED to know everything about your character. In truth? You may just discover it along with others. Get new ideas and add onto what you already have. It’s a journey. Enjoy it.
Hopefully this little list will help you in conceptualizing your character.
When in doubt? Ask every darn question in the book until you’ve made your own character a reality!
Now then. There are things we’ll have to contend with when we roleplay. Especially when roleplaying exotic characters.
Your concept will - as mentioned earlier - be subject to heightened squinted eyes. Beheld to scrutiny and generally? You’re expected to hold a higher standard. Here’s a small list of things you might want to expect of the world and those around you.
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Expect that others will hold you accountable for mistakes in higher regard than a ‘normal’ concept. There already exist stereotypes and stigmas aplenty that you’ll have to weave yourself around and essentially prove that you’re not part of.
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You won’t be turning everyone over to your side instantly. Some may never see things your way. Some people are quite simply rooted in their beliefs that ‘all ___ are BAD’ and thus, there will always be some that will never fully accept you.
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Prepare to be turned away from certain opportunities. Some doors close while others thankfully open. The world constantly changes! Roll with the new opportunities and don’t be afraid of creating your own.
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Expect to be questioned relentlessly on your concept. And prepare to have your answers and references in check.
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Know that people will expect you to fail. People will expect you to ‘be just another ___’ of the bad variant. It’s up to you to show them how wrong they are! Show them that you know what you’re doing. That you’re sincere and far better than the old stigma’s they’re used to.
How about a few things that can most definitely help you in your quest to be accepted in the world? These are things that have helped me, personally, in turning the tables on those that have previously scoffed and laughed my way.
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In-depth characters. Having a character that is well fleshed out with plenty of history, juicy tidbits and fun engaging content ensures that those around me know I put a lot of thought into my character. They’re not ‘just’ your local priest from the abbey or alchemist from Undercity with a bad breath.
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Power-scaling. Overpowered characters can be a big turn-off for a lot of people. It’s up to you to scale it properly. Instead of having a character that can snap their fingertips and solve a problem; let others have a go! For example; I myself rarely use my dragon in combat-events. She’s far more of a support character and a ‘last resort’ the few times she’s even present to begin with in such events!
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Writing. Heavens above this one can change a lot. Try to be convincing, living and dynamic in your writing. Have decent grammar and a sense of humor. They’re small things, but they can make a massive difference in how people perceive you.
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Don’t take the center stage. Everyone wants to be special. Everyone wants their moment in the spotlight. Don’t march in with the intention of trampling over your fellow roleplayers and put yourself in the spotlight like a Mary Sue-type character.
I’ve found that providing that stage for others to stand on often turns tables faster than the speed of light. Show that you care to listen, show interest in others characters and damn. Suddenly the world is at your feet. (Most of the time.) Be engaging! -
Create a concept for the love of the lore. Love of the narrative it’ll bring. Not for the power and attention.
And most importantly…
Have fun.
Exotic Races
Brief descriptions of some of the various non-playable races.
Demons
The ever present lingering hellish nightmares with a delightful wish for mayhem. Demons are one of the most popular exotic races out there to date. Not the most popular, but definitely up there. They’re dark, often horror-esque and disgusting with a wickedly long and epic amount of lore to back them up.
I’ve personally lost count on how many demons hiding about I’ve run into over the years. But the simple point is: it’s a lot. Infiltrators, ‘good’ ones that are bound to warlocks and demon hunters. And of course? The big bad villainous types.
There are plenty of demonic entities to choose from as well. There well and truly is ‘something for everyone’
Below you’ll find my little list of some of the most commonly roleplayed intelligent demons. Now, when I say demons; I mean outright demons. I’m not talking about what demon a Demon Hunter has sucked up.
Something to keep in mind when creating demons however, is that the VAST majority of demons are by no means doing things out of the good of their own heart. They are creatures of disorder. Relishing in the misfortune of others, rather than helping grandma across the street.
The only good deeds done to be good, by demons? Are seen when they are in service or bound to a warlock or a demon hunter. Bar that one succubus who made a love potion for her master because she was lovesick perhaps. BUT that being said; I would heavily advise to not play a demon that is perfectly happy with doing good deeds just because they’re good.
Aranasi
Arachnid demonic entities with well-kept secretive, less-understood origins with speculations in yet another race, wiped out and brought under heel of the Burning Legion. The Aranasi have various confirmed ‘looks’ to them. All from full-on spider demons, to nerubian-like and - perhaps the most well known - two-legged, winged female demons.
Their hierarchy appears to be a mixture between communal spiders and bees. With female broodmothers, princesses and queens sitting at the very top, with a no small brood army of egg-tenders, drones, consorts and everything in between.
They’re masterful soldiers; oft embodying a deadly mix of molten fire, fel, venom and a sheer, brutal, melee onslaught brought on by their own claws.
Inquisitor
Where the Aranasi draw on the fear of arachnids, Inquisitors are masterful sorcerers with a penchant for dark pacts and terrible, horrifying torment meant to tear truth and information from their hapless victims.
These demons were found everywhere the Legion worked. But their main ‘base of operations’ as it were, was the dread prison world of Niskara. Filled with the victims of the Legion and burdened by their screams.
Inquisitors are, as mentioned - terribly crafty sorcerers. While they have no eyes of their own - they have the access to a plethora of floating eyes. Moving independently of themselves. According to Demon Hunters; they are masters of misinformation. Planting doubt and fear in the minds of their victims.
Nathrezim
Perhaps one of the most well known of demons. While not being inherently ‘true demons’ themselves given their creation-story come Shadowlands. These entities were created by the Venthyr Eternal One; Sire Denathrius with the purpose of spreading the influence of Death across every other Cosmic Force as detailed in Convoy of the Covenants quest and the item Enemy Infiltration - Preface. Both items I heavily encourage anyone planning to roleplay or utilize these entities in plots to read.
The Nathrezim are known as the Unseen Guests. And for good reason. They are masterful infiltrators. Willing and able to stay hidden for years on end to achieve their goals. Sowing lies and manipulating the outcome of actions to be in their ultimate favor.
As noted in the latter of the previously noted texts; the Nathrezim that are most oft considered ‘demons’ being the ones allied with the Burning Legion notes that it is not pleasant to consume fel energy; but necessary. Pointing towards the simple fact that they are still ultimate allies of Death. Not Fel.
The Nathrezim have an immense amount of lore tied to them. Thus I highly recommend looking into them in-depth if they tickle your fancy.
Satyr
A wondrous mixture of lore and cosmic forces. Satyr were first created when Sageras cursed Xavius for his failures way back in the War of the Ancients. They are created simply by spreading this Satyr Curse.
Satyr split into two groups of fealty; one serving the Legion. And the other serving the Old Gods through the Emerald Nightmare. This part however, focuses mainly on the Satyr that hold loyalty to the Legion.
Mainly, these horrific cousins of the Night Elves live in near tribal-like sects across the world and within the Legion. They are masterful corruptors. Spreading corruptive energy such as Fel through land and fauna alike while draining its magic for themselves. Feeding off its purity.
Please note, that the vast majority of Satyr - especially after World of Warcraft: Legion - is mainly focused on the Void and the Nightmare rather than the Burning Legion where they were, curiously, low in number.
One thing I’ve seen people being chastised for however, is playing a ‘good’ Satyr. We actually have an example just like this in-lore named Avrus Illwhisper. Although he was heavily chastised and often humiliated by the night elves he tried to help at Raynewood Tower in Ashenvale. Heavens, Elune herself sends our adventurer to aid him in his redemption! And, believe it or not?
After his deed of self-sacrifice, he was redeemed by the moon goddess, Sargeras’ hold broken and he was returned to his night elven forme.
Sayaad
Perhaps one of the most seen player concepts when it comes to demonic entities, Sayaad are seductive but highly sadistic demons that are mainly tied to the Burning Legion. But has been seen in some cases to serve themselves or even Warlocks.
The lore on the genders are still largely dim; even with the new warlock appearance of the Incubus instead of the Succubus. I suggest you approach this with great care given the old rumors noted in Dev Answers.
Regardless of gender; Sayaad are intelligent demons that relish in torturing their victims to the point that their torturous sessions of interrogations has become the stuff of nightmares. They possess incredible mental prowess, lulling the weak into their servitude. Breaking hearts and devouring souls.
Shivarra
Known to be one of - if not the - most fanatical of the demonic races. The Shivarra relish in spreading the vision of Sargeras. These priestesses are far from the usual; preferring to enter combat directly. Armed with swords aplenty and magic alike. Facing one of these in battle would be like facing a living, angry blender. Hellbent on following you and slashing you to a fine pulpy paste.
Their magic is not something to idly shrug at either however. Having been known to cast plenty a curse and terrible flames towards their victims. And thanks to their plethora of arms? All while accosting them with deadly, sharp blades.
Dragons
Dragons! Yes. Indeed. Possibly THE most stereotypical and heated exotic race explored on the roleplaying stage in WoW. Dragons have been subject to scrutiny over the years - and with good reason too. To the vast majority of roleplayers, meeting a dragon character resorts in the immediate eye squint, elevated heartbeat and a sense of dread.
But why is this? Quite often, it’s a simple reason of people playing them for the wrong reason. Reasons such as ‘cool’ or ‘power’ or perhaps secretly the most prevalent ‘attention’ is at the forefront of sadly, all too often terrible concepts. The character that bursts into the bar, chest forward, crowned with horns and loudly proclaims themselves a dragon - expecting all eyes on them and a cacophony of ‘oos’ and ‘aas’ to immediately follow.
Or perhaps you’ve seen the ones that make a short emote of themselves in an event. Instant-killing something. Being immune to all damage. So on and so forth. Or perhaps simply not… understanding or adhering to the utterly MASSIVE amount of lore there is on dragons.
An enormous amount of this lore is found within the many books, short stories and comics created over the years. And there is PLENTY of lore still left to discover within the game itself.
You’ll have to excuse me as I go perhaps a bit more in depth on the subject of these serpentine creatures - for if anyone needs it, it surely are these wondrous creatures that can often be a grand inclusion to roleplay when done correctly.
That being said however, there are tonnes and I mean TONNES of information on dragons. To the point they could easily warrant their entirely own chapters per color even.
I heavily encourage those interested in dragons and magic both, to take a look into my ongoing project: Arcanomicon de Draconis. My attempts to write down over two hundred pages worth of references from quests, items, spells, quotes and books in a cohesive manner.
Black
Black dragons. Once wardens of the earth and its deep places. The far, FAR vast majority saw their fall to ruin with their maddened Aspect Neltharion. Perhaps better known as Deathwing. Corrupted by the Old Gods. The near entirety of the Black Dragonflight suffered in the same fate. The only exceptions to this being the purified Ebyssian and Wrathion - along with the handful following Sabellian to the Outlands. Far away from the Old Gods influence of Azeroth.
That being said - black dragons have long been known to be a bit more volatile than the rest of the colors. Quicker to anger and blow a fuse, and has even been described as being the best combatants of the Flights. Spending days practicing the perfect blows on one another and their servants.
Few black dragons has ever been described as being kindhearted or more ‘down-to-earth’ - they have long been seen as masterful manipulators, fighters and in control of their surroundings all the same. If any dragonflight looks down on mortals; it is the Black. While embodying true arrogance and pride in their own species.
Even before they became the dragons we know, Neltharion - as a proto dragon - was described as bold and arrogant.
Thankfully, we see how this is not true to ALL Black dragons. Ebyssian being a wonderful example of a far kinder entity. This, of course, may have more to do with his upbringing than his Flight.
Blue
True masters of magic. Curious and intelligent. The Blue Dragons have long been known as the smartest among dragonkind. But not quite always the wisest. They are wardens of magic and hidden arcana, tied so much to the arcane energy of the world that they can physically see the ley lines below the surface of the earth.
If any dragons suffered in the wake of Neltharion’s betrayal. It was the Blues. With nearly every Blue executed by this betrayal, it started the downward spiral of Malygos’ madness that would inevitably lead to the Nexus War.
They are masters of magic. Masters of academia, even. They understand magic better than anyone, despite often tampering with it - much to their own grievances. There are two ‘sides’ to the Blues. The Blues that allied with Malygos during the Nexus War - and the group that allied with the rest of their kin and world.
Thus, there are vast opportunities for differing personalities in character concepts. Blues were the ones curious about the unknown. And they have been known to work together with mortal races more than once!
Furthermore, with the Flight disbanded. It leaves individuals free to experience and discover. Well. Individualism far more than it did before with rigidity and a nose buried in a book or library.
Ready to study the magic of the Nightborne within Suramar? Go right ahead. Planning to recruit adventurers to explore the concepts of new magical spells and realms? Go for it! And with more than one brood situated in Northrend - it leaves options in one’s background of where one such character came from. Northrend (Malygos) or Azsuna (Senegos)?
Bronze
Timekeepers. Wardens of the one true Timeline. Or… so it was? Granted, it may be such come Dragonflight once again. But one thing I see almost every single Bronze or Timewalker get wrong is this: That Bronzes police time. Yes. They USED to police time and go ham on those chronomancers who abused chronomancy. No not by reverting time around an eaten apple, a timewarp, so on… But on the chronomancers who tried to meddle with time in ways that would ultimately create problems for the One True Timeline.
But Nozdormu himself loudly proclaimed “It is no longer our concern!” - yelled into the face of a concerned and frazzled Chronormu at the last Wyrmrest Accord before the Aspect stormed off huffing like an angry grandpa without his Sunday slippers.
Mind, there are still dragons and Timewalkers who DO care about the Timeways. But they’re not going to police a chronomancer for messing about with making wine. I cannot state this enough; they do not police the Timeways on behalf of their Flight anymore - or… perhaps; yet.
That being said! The Bronzes are perhaps the second most liable to mingling with the mortal races. Infiltrating, investigating and cataloging everything they can that seems of interest.
Of course, after the Age of Mortals began, they can no longer directly control the flow of time itself. But they can still very much observe it and travel it.
Green
With no doubt in my mind whatsoever, the Green Dragonflight has been - and probably will always be - the Flight closest to mortals. Spawned of course, from the bargain, the agreement between the dragons and the Night Elves. Leading to a close bond between Ysera’s brood and the elven druids. And later still the Dragonriders of Loreth’Aran.
The few Greens that remain largely stick to the dreamworld of the Emerald Dream. To the point that it can sometimes be hard for them to differentiate the true reality. As if the Reality we know, were the dream.
Greens are protective of Nature and its balance. Their work ensure that the Wilds remain a potent place of natural magick. Often however, the Greens are seen as the ‘most boring’ flight by a lot of players, which is downright terrible! The Green Dragons have an enormous amount of lore ripe for the picking and diving. Especially if your goal is hanging about more conventional mortals. Often described in the books.
And thankfully? There’s always a patch of grass to tend to somewhere. Always borders between the Dream and Reality to care for.
Red
Furiously protective of life, any red dragon is dedicated to protecting ‘life’ in all its shapes. Unsurprisingly; these are extremely suspicious and often hostile towards any sort of undead. Though of course, particularly the Scourge and Death Knights.
Of course, the Red dragonflight encompasses the Queen of Dragons, Alexstrasza and several other well known members. I would be lying if I said that the reds didn’t play a central role.
Alas, most players seem to find them a tad bit boring compared to some of the others. But Red Dragons have been seen utilizing themselves as everything between magnificent healers with actual, magical healing fires - often sprouting greenery, roots and flora where they hit - to most epic, military units with more devastating fires.
Most Reds are soft spoken and patient; valuing even the smallest spark of life - almost to the point that it feels, at least to what I have felt and witnessed - like a familial relation, or love of that life. Which then, unsurprisingly; means they take it extremely terrible when someone aims to hurt or end said life.
We’ve often seen the Reds as being surprisingly slow to anger, especially for dragons. More keen on taking a moment to breathe and analyze situations rather than rush head first into the fray.
Netherwing
Descendants of a clutch of Black eggs hidden on Draenor - when the planet decided that it no longer wanted to be held together, the energies that warped the lands also warped the eggs - and from there the outcome of dragons.
Nether Dragons age up rapidly due to these mutations and from constantly feeding - yes you heard me, -actually- feeding on the energies of the Nether. These wonderful dragons - some having more intelligence than others - are able to absorb energy from their surroundings and people alike.
Now, a common misunderstanding has been how the Netherdrakes ‘rapidly age and burn themselves out, leading to an early grave’ - this is only somewhat true! Namely, the misconception comes from the book “Nexus Point” - detailing controlling collars that malfunctioned and siphoned off their energy, causing death.
And while yes; they seem to need a stable source of energy, to namely, avoid burning themselves out too quickly. If they have this; which they have in the places they’re naturally found - then there’s few problems! Although it is still implied that their growth cycle is absolutely whacked.
Nether Dragons are naturally wary of a lot of people. Hostile even. Whereas plenty others are indifferent or even yes; friendly. They’re in a world where they were ‘abandoned’ by their progenitor. Making for wonderfully interesting story plots of finding one’s footing and place in the world.
Nightmare
Hoh boy here we go. I’ve seen my fair share of nightmare dragons that are ‘sane’ or even ‘good’ and it hits me hard every time. Nightmare dragons are either entirely mindless abominations, unable to speak. Or corrupted dragons, constantly tormented and forced to do the bidding of a dark master.
They are a byproduct of the Emerald Nightmare, corrupted from adulthood or even eggs. Perhaps most curiously is the fact that we see plenty of eggs and whelplings during Legion - much time after the Dragons lost their fertility. What exactly this means however, has never been further noted.
Every single aspect of a Nightmare Dragon - or any nightmare creature, for that sake - revolves around what ‘truth’ they’ve been shown. Resulting in a hostile creature with a penchant for spreading corruption.
Another thing I’ve sadly seen a few times too many, were Nightmare Dragons being ‘cleansed’ of its taint. Sadly, we’ve only seen this in the extreme cases of Eranikus and Ysondre. Both methods are not something that happens to just about anyone due to the need for artefacts, reagents and even the involvement of Elune.
And even then, not even Elune seemed able to save Ysera. It is also Ysera that notes that once a mortal is touched by the Nightmare. Only death will set them free.
Twilight
The Twilight Dragonflight has a massively long story. Beginning as terrible experiments of creating a singular, superior flight. These first experiments were all about grinding up dead dragons and utilizing their blood in gruesome rituals.
Later however, Sintharia - or Sinestra - created, with the lovely whispers of Neltharion (Deathwing) in her ear, the Twilight Dragonflight in an effort to ‘outdo’ her former master. Finding a much more straightforward way of infusing living dragons and eggs with the essence of others.
Particularly the first, was the usage of Nether Dragon essence. Plenty of chaotic energies, a touch of void magic and a bunch of dead dragons and blood and suddenly (in essence, heh) you had the Twilight Flight.
A Flight that consisted mostly of mindless abominations. With a few individuals showing signs of as high intelligence as any of the others.
Now the Twilights, and the ‘Void Dragonflight’ that sprung from them - in comparison the the Nightmare Flight - are able to be purified. Very much so. Although through quite a few twists and turns as we see Wrathion takes both for himself, and for the brood of Vexiona.
Dracthyr
Newest to the draconic scene are the Dracthyr. A race created well over twenty thousand years ago by Neltharion in secret to the majority of the other Flights. The Dracthyr were meant to have the magic of all five flights and the resilience and adaptability of the mortal soul.
Created to be the perfect soldiers. Dracthyr operated in groups known as ‘Weyrns’ - essentially a group dedicated to various tasks such as healing or being front-line soldiers. These Weyrns are predetermined.
However, for reasons yet unknown, the Dracthyr were sealed away with the help from Malygos and selected members of the Blue Dragonflight. Putting them into a stasis that has only just begun to break during Dragonflight.
The Dracthyr offers an immense roleplay opportunity, with plenty of spice going forwards. They were taught to respect, obey and follow the Aspects and Dragons in all things. But they were abandoned by them; many vowing to never follow the orders of a Dragon ever again.
It brings a whole host of interesting existential questions with it. Who are they now? What’s their place in the world? With extensive lore and as a player race; they bring forth immense opportunities.
Drakonids
Somewhat similar in a way to the Dracthyr. The Drakonids are hulking bipedal dragonkin who are, essentially; the footsoldiers of Dragons. The key differences between the Dracthyr and the Drakonids are few and far between.
The Drakonids have long been speculated (and in some instances confirmed) to be descendants of mortals who spent time amongst dragons. For, you see; spending time close to dragons ‘side effects of hanging about dragons’ according to Sean Copeland. These changes and alterations can be both intentional and not. As well as willing and unwilling.
We see the intentional change into Drakonids when Corla siphoned the essence of a dead Nether Dragon into the bodies of living followers.
All Drakonid are intelligent. Although some more than others. They can grow old, retire and would you believe it; reproduce via eggs. Thus, it is entirely possible to be born a Drakonid.
Dragonspawn
Similarly to Drakonid, Dragonspawn are servants of Dragons. Acting as both foot soldiers, tenders and even in some cases; commanders and generals. While once their intelligence was noted as being particularly dim - in Dragonflight the roles have been reversed between them and Drakonids. Now, Dragonspawn all talk and are even noted to take up history and strategy as pursuits.
Dragonspawn are likewise suspected to have once been mortals, influenced by draconic essences. Although this has never been entirely confirmed as with the Drakonids.
Furthermore, Dragonspawn are noted to have a “Calling” - A Lifecalling, even. A thing in which they aid their Flight and dedicate themselves to. It has been noted that a Calling can change - but that the first is always the most special.
Dragonsworn
Finally, we have the Dragonsworn! A Dragonsworn is, in essence, a mortal who serves a Dragon or Dragonflight in exchange for knowledge or power. That’s it. We have yet to see any in-game NPC’s that have directly been called a Dragonsworn, however, several NPC’s could fit under the description.
The concept comes from the WoW RPG - and thus, most of what we know, if not actually ALL we know, is considered non-canon. Though widely accepted in-rp.
As such, players have created a wide host of headcanon rituals, traditions and more in what it means to be a Dragonsworn. Some Dragons (players) treat their Sworn as servants, or even slaves. While others again treat theirs as students or friends.
Therefore, Dragonsworn remains a ‘hot topic’ that can often come up to debate. Something to keep in mind - and especially with the enormous amount of headcanons flowing about.
Ethereals
Wonderful creatures of a race that was subject to a whole host of problems thanks to a certain Dimensius the All-Devouring who tore their home planet K’aresh apart by opening a plethora of void portals.
Ethereals are essentially beings of ravaged energy kept together by magic bindings to ensure they’re not just floating about willy-nilly. Collectors and travelers that are by no means afraid of traveling where others may not even dare tread. In search for artefacts and of course; profit!
Similar in political system to goblins; the most ‘powerful’ of ethereals are often the ones with the most funds or power. We see a few different types of Ethereals, but most notably the ‘conventional’ arcane beings, and those infused with the Void.
Furthermore, we see different political groups within the race, the Ethereum being a radical militant operation - more often than not highly hostile and going for a ‘the end justifies the means’ sort of approach. The Protectorate aims to thwart the Ethereum’s attacks and protect neutral races from the Void. And the Consortium, being one of several off-shoots also aimed against the Ethereum’s methods. the Consortium allying themselves with the Sha’tar.
Ethereals are oft greedy beings, but we do see at least one Ethereal, namely Locus-Walker - who seems more intent on teaching others to safely wield the Void for instance.
Thank you for taking your time to read through this proverbial word-vomit! I decided to post this oddity before I added any ‘Undead’ or ‘Void Entities’ to the list of exotic creatures, as I was largely unsure as to how many would even want to read about them.
Is there an interest for them to be added to the list? If so, I’ll gladly smack 'em on there!
Furthermore, I welcome any constructive criticism, questions and suggestions. Although I ask that people arm themselves with patience, as I rarely visit the forums as is.