This week, raid teams raced to Gorgrond as the Blackrock Foundry raid instance kicked off in normal and heroic modes. Initial impressions are good from player reports, and the encounters have some good variety to keep all kinds of different players challenged. Especially the trash!

Ion Hazzikostas, Lead Game Designer on World of Warcraft, wrote a post that clarified the intentions behind the encounter difficulties and what players should expect as they clear bosses. The guys go over the details, give you their opinions, and provide some key information that could be important for your team.

With the opening of the Blackrock Foundry, now raiders can finally get some Tier 17 gear in this expansion. But are the bonuses overpowered, or are they just “nice”? Plus, find out the worst part of the new gear (according to Pat Krane).

Plus, WoW Insider turns into Blizzard Watch, mounting up at level 1, your questions and a whole lot more!