How to play on a free Cataclysm 4.3.4 private server

Updated

Warspring is a free Cataclysm 4.3.4 private server, and getting in only takes a few minutes. This guide walks through creating an account, getting the client and logging in, and how to fix the problems new players run into most.

Which version does Warspring run?

Warspring runs World of Warcraft: Cataclysm 4.3.4 (build 15595), extended with plenty of custom content: a haste system without limits, custom Mythic+, new races and yearly events. It is a fun server, not a Blizzlike one.

Step 1: create your account

Register a free account on this website. You use the same account to play.

Step 2: download the client

There are two options on the How to Connect page:

  • Minimal client (recommended): a small download that fetches the game files as you play. Put it in a new, empty folder. It's the quickest way to get started.
  • Full client: the complete game with every file included. Useful on slow or unstable connections, or if you prefer to download everything up front.

Step 3: launch the game

Start Warspring.exe, not Wow.exe, and give it a few minutes to download the first files. Custom content keeps downloading while you play.

Step 4: log in and play

Log in with your username (not your email address) and password. The new races, Pandaren, Void Elf, Vulpera and Nightborne, are on the character creation screen.

Common problems

I get disconnected while logging in

The server is usually not down. A disconnect at login normally means your client files don't match the server's. Make sure you start the game with Warspring.exe and that there is no set patchlist line in your Config.WTF or realmlist.wtf. Compare your Data and enUS folders with the screenshots on the How to Connect page.

I don't see the new races

Your client is probably not set up correctly. Start the game with Warspring.exe and remove any set patchlist localhost line. If it still doesn't work, download the full client.

Mob health looks wrong

Health here goes far beyond the client's normal limits. Addons that change health bars usually stop at the old maximum, so turn them off to see the right values.

Still stuck?

Open a ticket on another account or email [email protected] with a screenshot of your Data and enUS folders and your Config.WTF and wow.mfil files, and we'll help you find the problem. The FAQ covers more questions.

Your first steps in game

  • Type .autoloot to loot everything around you automatically.
  • Use the Teleporter Stone or .ms tele to get around quickly.
  • Work toward the haste cap, then start running Mythic+ keys.
  • Check which event is running for limited mounts and emblems.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need the full Cataclysm client?

No. The recommended minimal client is a small download that fetches the game files while you play. A full client is available too, for slow or unstable connections.

Do I log in with my email address?

No. Log in with your username and password, not your email address.

Why do I get disconnected while logging in?

Usually your client files do not match the server. Always start the game with Warspring.exe, not Wow.exe, and make sure there is no "set patchlist" line in your Config.WTF or realmlist.wtf.

Why don't I see the new races?

The new races appear on the character creation screen when the client is set up correctly. Start the game with Warspring.exe and remove any "set patchlist localhost" line from Config.WTF or realmlist.wtf.