Guide ·
WoW Forever Graphics, Transmog and Controller Support Explained
Blizzard has confirmed that WoW Forever offers both HD and SD character models, modern and Classic visual presets, opt-in transmog and official gamepad support. It has not published menus, platform lists or release timing for any of them, so this guide keeps to what Blizzard has said and flags the rest.
Quick answer: You can choose HD or SD character models, with Classic animations restored for HD models. Visual presets come in modern and Classic styles and are opt-in. Transmog is opt-in, and every dungeon drop unlocks its appearance. Official gamepad support is included.
HD and SD character models
Blizzard describes "High-Definition (HD) and Standard-Definition (SD) character-model options," with restored Classic animations for HD models. Think of it as a choice between two looks for the same characters. Blizzard describes the choice as optional.
Visual presets: modern and Classic
Visual presets are available in modern and Classic styles, and Blizzard describes them as opt-in. Rendering updates also add environmental effects, such as river flow in Elwynn Forest, mist over Darkshore and moonlight in Ashenvale, while keeping the original art style.
The Skyborne race has its own customizations, voices, dances and visual options, plus druid forms made for the race. See the Skyborne guide.
Transmog
Transmog is opt-in. Blizzard has said that every dropped dungeon item automatically unlocks its appearance for each eligible looter, so a run through the new dungeons can build your collection. Blizzard has not published more mechanics, so do not assume costs, slots or restrictions.
Controller support
Blizzard says official gamepad support is included for players who prefer controllers. It has not said which platforms, or how the controls are laid out, so we cannot describe menus or button mappings.
Decisions to make before launch
- Pick a look. Decide whether you prefer HD or SD character models and modern or Classic presets. The article describes them as optional.
- Keep your drops. Treat dungeon items as a way to collect appearances.
- Plan your input. If you play on a gamepad, wait for Blizzard to publish the supported platforms before buying any hardware for it.
Beta play started on September 17, and global launch is November 4, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. PST, so settings may change before then.
What to watch for
- Launch-day patch notes that spell out graphics and controller options
- Details of how transmog works across classes and slots
- Any difference between the beta and the live game
Our Forever versus Classic guide lists other changes that matter, and the beginner's guide covers your first steps.
Frequently asked questions
Does WoW Forever have HD and SD character models?
Yes. Blizzard says players get HD and SD character-model options, with restored Classic animations for HD models.
Can I play WoW Forever with a controller?
Blizzard says official gamepad support is included, but has not detailed platforms or controls.
Is transmog in WoW Forever?
Yes, as an opt-in feature. Blizzard also says every dropped dungeon item unlocks its transmog appearance for each eligible looter.
Can I make WoW Forever look like Classic?
Blizzard says visual presets come in modern and Classic styles and are opt-in.
Are these settings final?
Not necessarily. Blizzard has not given dates or detailed specifications for them, so check patch notes at launch.
Sources
Reviewed October 23, 2026. Only features Blizzard has confirmed are described; menus and details have not been published. Lore Forever is fan-made and is not affiliated with Blizzard Entertainment.