TL;DR
- TBC Classic launches June 1 with Pre-Patch available May 18 for early access to new races
- Each character requires choosing between TBC progression or Classic Era realms
- Character Cloning Service ($35) lets you play the same character in both game versions
- Dark Portal Pass ($39.99) boosts one character to level 58 with gear and gold
- Strategic planning prevents irreversible decisions and maximizes your gaming experience
Exciting Announcement! Blizzard has confirmed the official Burning Crusade Classic launch date as June 1, with the crucial Pre-Patch arriving on May 18.
As experienced WoW Classic specialists, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about TBC Classic’s Character Selection, Character Cloning Service, and Level 58 Character Boost. This comprehensive guide combines official information with practical insights to help you make informed decisions.
The Pre-Patch period beginning May 18 represents your first opportunity to experience new content while making critical choices about your character’s future.
All existing World of Warcraft Classic servers will automatically transition to Burning Crusade Classic content when the Pre-expansion Patch goes live. Upon your initial login, you’ll face a pivotal decision for every character: advance to Burning Crusade Classic or remain in the original WoW Classic experience on newly established Classic Era realms.

For players who haven’t logged into WoW Classic since before Pre-Patch day, the Battle.net Desktop App will default to Burning Crusade Classic. Selecting the original WoW Classic requires manual intervention.
When choosing the “Play Burning Crusade” option, you’ll encounter a verification screen requiring you to type your character’s name to confirm this significant transition.


After clicking “Accept”, your character permanently advances to Burning Crusade Classic. While Outland remains inaccessible until the official June 1 release, you gain immediate access to Blood Elf and Draenei races plus the ability to learn Jewelcrafting during this early access period.
Players preferring the original Classic Era experience must specifically select the World of Warcraft Classic game within the Battle.net Desktop App and complete a separate installation process.
For gamers wanting to experience both gaming worlds simultaneously, the Character Cloning Service (available May 18, $35 per character) enables continued play of your existing character in original WoW Classic while simultaneously progressing in Burning Crusade Classic.
Following the Pre-Patch deployment, WoW Classic participants must determine whether each character advances to Burning Crusade Classic alongside their realm community or continues in the original WoW Classic content on fresh Classic Era servers. Gamers seeking dual-world experiences can utilize the optional Character Cloning Service (available May 18, $35 per character).
Every character created and played before server maintenance for the Pre-Patch will display across identical realms. This ensures visibility of all pre-existing characters within both game iterations.
Clicking the Clone icon triggers a detailed confirmation window displaying essential information including the specific “Clone” date for your character.

Selecting “Accept” redirects you to the Shop interface where Character Cloning Service purchases occur.

Transaction completion enables payment processing for this premium service.

Players seeking to elevate their Burning Crusade Classic character directly to level 58 can acquire the Dark Portal Pass (available May 18, $39.99). For progression beyond level 58 to your target level, our TBC Classic power leveling services provide efficient alternatives.
Adventurers joining Outland expeditions with companions can optionally purchase the Dark Portal Pass (available May 18, $39.99 per character), enabling one character boost to level 58 within Burning Crusade Classic (restricted to one per World of Warcraft account, excluding Blood Elf and Draenei characters).
The enhanced character acquires multiple skills, equipment pieces, and Classic TBC currency as detailed below.
Apprentice Riding skill
Race-specific mount
Weapon skills up to level 58
Access to certain flight paths
A set of level 58 magic (green) quality gear
Up to four Runecloth Bags (14 slots each)
Some WoW TBC Classic gold to start its journey
Numerous enthusiasts eagerly anticipate TBC’s Pre-Patch and official launch. While these releases haven’t occurred yet, studying our preparation guides helps you get ready for the approaching TBC Classic experience. Currently WoW Classic currency is available through our platform, providing direct purchase options when self-farming proves time-prohibitive.
Pro Tip: Create a decision spreadsheet tracking each character’s planned path—this prevents rushed choices during the limited selection window.
Common mistakes include failing to understand the permanence of progression decisions and overlooking the early access benefits during the Pre-Patch period.
Optimization strategies involve prioritizing cloning for main characters while using boosts for alternate characters to maximize gameplay flexibility.
Action Checklist
- Document each character’s planned progression path (TBC vs Classic Era) before May 18
- Identify which characters warrant cloning service investment based on playtime and attachment
- Determine optimal character for Dark Portal Pass boost considering class needs and racial restrictions
- Prepare gold and resources for new Jewelcrafting profession during Pre-Patch
- Download and install necessary game clients before login rush on May 18
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