All this talk about the WoTLK beta has me really really excited for the real thing to come out. I'm even leveling a druid to 70 right now because I think the new balance and restoration talents are interesting. It's also my insurance to have another healer toon just in case my fears about holy pallies being underwhelming for the expansion are realized. I definitely agree that the suckiest part about all this beta testing is that I'm not in it to experience the fun new stuff. Of course I also read somewhere that being in the beta isn't all that it's cracked up to be since the server is down often, abilities don't work as intended and stuff like that. but at least the beta testers get to see the new content and have an idea on how the new abilities work.
The good news is that CM Eyonix announced that there will be a pre-WoTLK content patch coming soon similar to the one that was released before the Burning Crusade expansion was released. So we'll be able to experience some of the stuff the beta testers are experiencing right now, especially the new talent trees.
With the release of Wrath of the Lich King approaching, we wanted to provide you with some important information. In preparation for the expansion, we will be issuing a new content patch in the coming weeks. Much like the patch made available shortly before The Burning Crusade's release, this content patch is designed to bridge current game content with that of the expansion and will contain some exciting changes and additions.
We have outlined some of the larger features scheduled to release with the patch below:
New class spells and talents
Stormwind Harbor
Barbershops in capital cities
Zeppelin towers outside of Orgrimmar and Tirisfal Glades
Two brand-new Arenas featuring challenging new layouts, terrain hazards, and moving obstacles
Guild calendar
Hunter pet skill revamp
New profession: InscriptionAs mentioned above, this is not a comprehensive list, just some of the major highlights. We’ll post the full patch notes as soon as they’re available. Regarding Inscription, please note that all Burning Crusade players will be able to select Inscription as one of their two professions and level up to a skill level of 375 with it. Upon the release of Wrath of the Lich King, players who purchase and install the expansion will be able to continue leveling in Inscription and the other professions beyond 375.
It's definitely nice that we'll be able to learn inscription already even before the expansion comes out. Players weren't given access to Jewelcrafting until after Burning Crusade came out. Being able to pick up Inscription will give players a head start and even possibly take it to 375, ready to go to the next level once WoTLK comes out. And in case you were wondering about the zeppelin towers outside Orgrimmar and Tirisfal Glades since those already exist, Eyonix mentioned there will be new ones that will eventually take players to Northrend.