World of Warcraft recently began alpha testing for Dragonflight, meaning the expansion’s files are now available for datamining. While perusing the World of Warcraft files for models and hints, fans discovered a model for an infamous Hearthstone character with an interesting connection with dragons.
Rafaam is an Ethereal, one of the mysterious energy beings from World of Warcraft who travel the multiverse in search of commerce and relics. Since his first appearance in Hearthstone during The League of Explorers adventure, Rafaam has made several appearances as a recurring villain throughout several expansions.
However, Rafaam is a character original to Hearthstone, and has otherwise not been seen in World of Warcraft, until now. Curiously, Rafaam’s previous appearance during the Descent of Dragons expansion saw him and his E.V.I.L. Cohorts resurrect Galakrond, the massive proto-dragon adversary faced by the Dragon Aspects in World of Warcraft’s history. There have been several hints Galakrond could make a return in Dragonflight. Given their shared history in Hearthstone, it is possible Rafaam could be involved in his possible return in World of Warcraft as well.
Rafaam has been known by many titles throughout the years: Supreme Archaeologist, Arch-Thief, Arch-Villain, Prime Evil. The mastermind is appearing once again in the Murder at Castle Nathria Hearthstone expansion with a new title–Imp King. Rafaam serves as one of the Warlock Legendary cards in the Shadowlands-themed set, where he is a suspect in the murder case of Sire Denathrius.
Hearthstone fans are excited to see what hijinks Rafaam will get into in World of Warcraft. As a comedic supervillain who is equal parts competent and incompetent, he could provide some enjoyable levity to Dragonflight. Alternatively, World of Warcraft could take the villain a bit more seriously and wield him as a legitimate threat, especially if he works with established World of Warcraft villains like the Infinite dragonflight to achieve his goals. With an arsenal of powerful relics collected over the years, from time-manipulating devices to superweapons, he could become a major threat for players to face.
Some World of Warcraft fans are less excited about the prospect of Rafaam in WoW. Galakrond’s potential return could pose a very real threat to Azeroth, and many fear a comedic villain like Rafaam could spoil the mood. Many fans are also disappointed with the datamined model as it lacks many of Rafaam’s most distinguishing traits, such as his red eyes or his imposing silhouette. However, until Dragonflight launches, players can only speculate whether Rafaam will even appear in game, or if the model will change before it does.
World of Warcraft is available now on PC. The Dragonflight expansion is set to launch later this year.
Source: Wowhead