The Rarest Hunter Pets

Zardoz has calculated the rarest hunter pets in his Armory data mining adventures.  These are not rare items, they are the least tamed pets and include one that is no longer tamable.  If you want something different, check the list.
http://www.aspectofthehare.net/2010/09/sixteen-rarest-hunter-pets.html

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Equipment and Clothing Manager Addons

Information on addons such as ClosetGnome and Outfitter.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/addon-spotlight-equipment-and-outfit-addons/

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Real ID and Battle.net Privacy Expanded

Blizzard has changed the privacy options for Real ID and Battle.net so that you can opt out of Friends of Friends, remove the ability to be seen in Starcraft 2's Facebook area, and can turn off Real ID altogether.  "To change your Battle.net privacy options, log in to your account's Battle.net management page and select Settings, then Communication Preferences. "
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/real-id-and-battle-net-get-expanded-privacy-settings/

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Mobile Guild Chat and Blizzard's Other New Gizmos

Larisa looks at the new features Blizzard has introduced in the last year or so, tries to decide which are hits (sparkle pony) and which are misses (in-game chat line and the mobile Auction House), and wonders which category the mobile guild chat capability will fall in.  She doesn't mention the mobile Armory, which I've wondered about.  Does anyone pay for this?
http://www.pinkpigtailinn.com/2010/09/mobile-guild-chat-success-or-portal.html

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The Cataclysm Economy Report (Justice Points)

Several posts have hit the Internet that discuss the changes to the currency system in Cataclysm.  The first link discusses whether it makes sense to sell your emblems now or wait to exchange them for heirlooms.
http://waywardinitiative.wordpress.com/2010/09/29/cata-chatter-heirloom-gear/

WOW Head has added a emblems-to-justice-points update to their website.   Note that the changes will hit with Patch 4.0.1 instead of waiting until Cataclysm.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=169500

They've also added a currency calculator!  Here's the direct link.
http://www.wowhead.com/currencycalc

UPDATE:  Here's what Blizzard says about valor and justice point drop rates in Cataclysm and Lich King.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/cataclysm-justice-and-valor-point-drop-rates-revealed/

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Retribution Paladins in Patch 4.0.1

WOW Insider profiles the retribution paladin in Cataclysm based on Patch 4.0.1 information that's now on the public test realm.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/the-light-and-how-to-swing-it-retribution-in-4-0-1/

Teleros is doing the same thing in multiple parts.
http://ferarro.blogspot.com/2010/09/retribution-breakdown-for-cataclysm_28.html

http://ferarro.blogspot.com/2010/10/retribution-breakdown-for-cataclysm.html

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Patch 4.0.1 Details List

Blizzard has posted the official list of what will be in Patch 4.0.1, which is the last patch before Cataclysm hits.  In this patch the new content will not be available but the changed class information, new UI, the new currency systems, the new glyphs and more will be added.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/blizzard-updates-under-development-page-with-patch-4-0-1-details/

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Arena Season 8 Ends October 12 (Season 9 in Beta)

Blizzard announces Arena Season 8 will end on October 12 while Season 9 is available in the Cataclysm beta.  Season 9 will start officially a week after Cataclysm drops.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/arena-season-8-to-end-as-early-as-oct-12/

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/cataclysm-beta-arena-season-9-available-for-testing/

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How to Win at Brewfest (Sarcasm)

Hilarious video about Brewfest.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/wow-moviewatch-how-to-win-at-brewfest/

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Disguise Yourself UPDATED

Ways to change your character if you aren't a druid.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/guest-post-5-ways-to-become-a-master-of-disguise/

UPDATE:  The Pugging Pally writes an article about ways to  change your outward appearance.
http://puggingpally.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/so-you-want-to-be-a/

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Rolling Restarts and Regular Downtime

A few realms (listed below) will have regular maintenance today.  Everyone else has rolling restarts.
http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?sid=1&topicId=26850260203

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Cataclysm Glyph Changes

An explantion of how glyphs will work.
http://www.wowconfidential.com/professions/inscription/glyph-changes-in-cataclysm/

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War of Words

Bobby Kotick responds to Tim Shafer's insult two months back (for which Shafer apologized) with one of his own, then goes on to insult EA and Infinity Ward's former heads.
http://www.1up.com/news/activision-ceo-claims-ea-struggling-handles-studios-improperly

He also called Bungie the only remaining high quality independent developer a few days back.
http://kotaku.com/5645940/an-open-letter-from-a-former-bungie-vp-to-bobby-kotick

EA and Shafer respond.  I expect this'll get hotter before it blows over.  Kotick has a knack of leaving upset people in his wake.
http://www.1up.com/news/ea-tim-schafer-respond-negative-kotick-statements

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Cataclysm Messes with Portals

Apparently Cataclysm is removing the portals in Dalaran and Shattrath and may be setting up new ones various places.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/cataclysm-beta-removes-portals-from-dalaran-and-shattrath/

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Effective Raid Leadership

An interesting essay on becoming a better raid leader.
http://blacksen.com/archives/446

New MMO Leadership website, started in Patch 4.0.1.
http://www.mmoleader.com/

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Fun for the Solo Hunter (Taming the Beast or Soloing Molten Core)

Garwulf explains how to get the Taming the Beast achievement as a solo player.  There is a taming macro, hints on how to find the beast in Blackrock Spire and an explanation of exactly what Garwulf did to grab his Beast.  If you are a hunter looking for something to do while waiting for Cataclysm, this might be just the thing.
http://huntsmanslodge.com/8014/taming-the-beast.htm

How to solo Molten Core as a hunter.
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/09/26/welcome-to-the-hollowed-core/

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Hunter Prep for Cataclysm

If you plan to play a hunter in Cataclysm, here's what Eidotrope thinks you need to be doing now to prepare.
http://outdps.com/2010/09/26/preparing-for-patch-4-0/

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Amazon Emails Cataclysm Release Date of Nov. 23rd

Amazon just emailed a ton of customers that Cataclysm's release date is November 23.  Of course they don't have a history of being reliable with release dates.  The only thing I am certain of is that Cataclysm will not release on November 9 since that is when Call of Duty: Black Ops comes out and Activision spent a ton of money on that game.  They won't schedule two big game releases for the same date.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/amazon-just-sent-out-a-bunch-of-emails-about-cataclysms-release/

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A Game for While You Wait (Sacred 2)

Thanks to Karthias, the Solo MMO Player has found a game to play while waiting for Cataclysm.  It's called Sacred 2 and is available on the PC, PS3 and xBox 360. (Note the the original PC version is said to be rather buggy.)  Sacred 2 is a throwback game made in Germany, similar to Morrowind in the Elder Scroll series, but with  the detailed character creation of WOW.  If you think you are going to miss managing complex character elements when Blizzard streamlines it in Cataclysm, this game might be for you.

The quests are simplistic.  You will be constantly battling multiple enemy NPCs that come at you in waves.  There are six classes to choose from in the original game (and perhaps one more in the PC only expansion called Ice and Blood) but you won't be able to choose your sex, just customize hair color.  For example, if you want to play a Seraphim (similar to WOW's Paladin class in some ways) you have to play as a female and run around in high heels and a mini-skirt until you buy or loot new gear.

The camera views can be awkward, and if you are not used to a bird's eye view, you won't enjoy playing offline co-op.  There is PvP and online co-op available, but since this is an older game, there may not be many folks to play with.  Mounts in this game are similar to pets in WOW and you can use mounted combat.

The game has touches of humor, especially in the graveyards.  There is also an in-game heavy metal concert that seems to be embedded in one of the quests.

Sacred 2 can be downloaded from xBox Live or D2D, but apparently there is no manual available if you do this.  When you start playing, you are going to be pretty confused at first.  This is a complex game to master in some ways.

The most important online source of information is Sacred 2's wiki.  However, it is not very useful for new players as there is no real explanation of the basics for beginners.  If you want to search the forum postings you will have to sign up and create a login.
http://www.sacredwiki.org/index.php5/SacredWiki

I found some basic information and a list of the main and side quests here.  This is a very big game with 200 levels spread across a wide landscape so you'll need some help keeping to the quests.  If you don't like leveling, this is not the game for you.
http://guides.gamepressure.com/sacred2fallenangel/guide.asp?ID=7236

There is lots of gear in the game.  This is a fairly complete list.  The way the game handles large inventory is pretty good (if you play the xBox 360 version, make sure you get the Bank Imp download).
http://pctalk.info/Games/Sacred2/Wolfes.Lair/Sacred2FallenAngel/S2FAItems.html

This site lists the characters, their gods and the combat arts you can choose from.
http://www.bingegamer.net/2009/a-beginners-guide-to-sacred-2/

This site talks about skills and combat arts, and has a guide to some of the characters available.
http://www.brighthub.com/video-games/mmo/articles/15852.aspx

More basics including alchemy and some leveling information.
http://pctalk.info/Games/Sacred2/Wolfes.Lair/Sacred2FallenAngel/S2FAGameBasics.html

Here are some good tips.
http://www.co-optimus.com/article/1828/sacred-2-hints-and-tips-from-the-co-optimus-community.html

One of the big drawbacks to the game is you can't respec a character.  Whatever you choose in the beginning is what you are stuck with throughout the game, so if you decide you aren't happy with your build, you have to start over from the beginning to create something different.  Several folks have posted their builds to help newer players get started.  These are just a few good ones I found while looking for game information, but there are many more if you do a little searching.
http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?t=619262

http://forum.sacred2.com/archive/index.php/t-65974.html

The Sacred 2 wiki has guides to all the characters that help you figure out the optimum build for you.  In general the dyad is a ranged caster/healer, the high elf is a caster, the inquisitor is a caster/melee/summoner, the seraphim is a caster/melee/healer, the shadow warrior does summoning/melee, and the temple guardian is a hybrid ranged class.
http://www.sacredwiki.org/index.php5/Sacred_2:Character_Class

There's a YouTube Sacred 2 channel.
http://www.youtube.com/user/SacredWiki

This review for the PS3 version of the game makes good points about the game's good and bad points.
http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/sacred2-ps3/index.html

See you in Ancaria!

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Cataclysm Reduces Vanilla WOW 25-Mans

A blue posting has just come out with the information that the original 25 man raids in the original WOW will be nerfed into 10 man raids once Cataclysm comes out. This only applies to Burning Crusade raids that have no 10 man version currently.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/cataclysm-beta-select-guild-raid-achievement-requirements-reduc/#continued

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Laugh of the Day

Let me quote Kotaku's header for this article:  "Activision Blizzard Teams with White House to Develop Smart People".
http://kotaku.com/5646858/activision-blizzard-joins-with-white-house-to-develop-smart-people

Don't miss the comments section.

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DIrebrew is Missing!

Birdfall reports that Direbrew is missing this morning.  Anyone else see this happening?
http://birdfall.blogspot.com/2010/09/direbrew-lost-or-instance-not-found.html

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Enjoying the Unexpected

Thanks to the Pot, I found this little essay about enjoying the few fun touches in WOW.
http://raging-monkeys.blogspot.com/2010/09/world-of-warcraft-secrets-dalarans.html

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Learn to Make Machinima UPDATED

WOW Insider pointed me toward this site that is geared toward helping folks learn to make machinima.  If you are curious, this is a good place to start.
http://wowdirectors.com/

UPDATE: Now there's a guide to WOW's model viewer.  Thanks to WOW Insider for pointing out part one.
http://www.gamecreds.com/util/blog/lesson-wow-model-viewer-olibith-6

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Kotick Insults Independent Game Publishers Everywhere

At a Bank of America Merrill Lynch conference last week, Kotick insulted independent game developers by saying Bungie was "probably the last remaining high quality independent developer."  This has sparked some reaction among independent developers, of which Bungie is no longer one since they've taken Activision's money and signed a 10-year publishing deal.
http://kotaku.com/5645940/an-open-letter-from-a-former-bungie-vp-to-bobby-kotick

If you want to hear the whole 45 minute spiel from the conference, the link is in the above.  Thanks, Kotaku!

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The Protection Paladin (Patch 4.0.1)

Based on the public test realm information for Patch 4.0.1 (i.e., Cataclysm), here is what the protection paladin will look like once Cataclysm hits.
http://ferarro.blogspot.com/2010/09/protection-breakdown-401.html

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Preview of Cataclysm Gnomes Starting Zone

Blizzard has posted a preview of the new Tinkertown starting zone.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/cataclysm-beta-welcome-to-new-tinkertown/#continued

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Cataclysm Battlegrounds and PvP and Gear

A summary of what PvP and Battlegrounds game mechanics will look like once Cataclysm arrives.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/the-art-of-war-craft-the-shape-of-cataclysm-battlegrounds-pvp/

More info.  The author thinks Cataclysm PvP will kill solo play.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/the-art-of-war-craft-building-your-battleground-kill-crew/

UPDATE;  Battlegrounds PvP Gear in Patch 4.0.1
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/battleground-pvp-gear-in-4-0-1/

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Automated Auction House Undercutting UPDATED

WOW Insider describes a plug-in for the Quick Auctions addon that allows automated posting to Quick Auctions.  A must for the Goblin on your gift list!
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/gold-capped-quick-auctions-poster-does-the-undercutting-for-you/

UPDATE:  Patch 4.0.1 (the pre-Cataclysm patch) trashed Quick Auctions 3.  I've heard goblins recomment ZeroAuctions instead.  Here's the download link.  I have no idea how good this is, but if you are desperate....
http://wow.curse.com/downloads/wow-addons/details/zeroauctions.aspx

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Blizzard Announces an Online Hacked Account Form

Instead of emailing or calling Blizzard, now you are supposed to fill out a form on this website.  It looks like the personal information they will ask for to restore a hacked account will be even more insecure now.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/blizzard-announces-automated-account-recovery-form-for-hacked-ac/

More details.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=169026

I consider this as just another form of cost-cutting on Blizzard's part.  If I were hacked, I'd want a real person to talk to about the problem, not an online form.  Customer service this is not.

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How Hit Scaling Works in Cataclysm

The Ghostcrawler explains how bosses and players get stronger as you go through an instance.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/ghostcrawler-explains-hit-scaling-in-cataclysm/

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A WOW Player's Guide to Final Fantasy 14

How the two games are the same and different.
http://www.massively.com/2010/09/20/a-world-of-warcraft-players-guide-to-final-fantasy-xiv/

WOW Head has a video and is trying to start a discussion on the comparison.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168781

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Combat Ratings (Level 85) for Cataclysm

Thanks to BobTurkey, I have a link to what Elitist Jerks has worked out as the combat ratings at Level 85 in Cataclysm.  This is based on the beta, mind.
http://elitistjerks.com/f15/t29453-combat_ratings_level_85_cataclysm/

Here's what ThinkTank thinks about these figures.
http://wowthinktank.blogspot.com/2010/09/generalcataclysm-ratings.html

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Assign Your Blame Properly: A Flow Chart

Thanks to the Melting Pot, I can share this article about how to properly assign blame for a wipe.
http://rootbranch.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/on-accountability/

Put your drink down before you click on the link and start reading.

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Running WOW on Linux: Installation

The Pot has the first in its series on playing WOW on a Linux machine.  This is about installation and shows screen shots, has commands and generally goes into things in depth.  Great article.  This is the introduction:
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/08/running-world-of-warcraft-under-linux-prologue/

And here's the installation article.  I'll update this as new articles are published about running WOW on Linux.
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/09/running-world-of-warcraft-under-linux-installation/

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Guild Chat Planned for Mobile Armory UPDATED

This costs extra and will be added to the regular Armory later.  whoopeehttp://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/guild-chat-coming-to-the-mobile-armory-app/

When Kotaku mentioned this, they were less than enthusiastic and also wondered if the timing of the announcement had anything to do with ArenaNet's article about the same functionality.
http://kotaku.com/5644227/mobile-guild-chat-coming-to-world-of-warcraft

Here's how it works with ArenaNet in Guild Wars 2.
http://kotaku.com/5643811/staying-connected-to-guild-wars-2-on-the-go

ANOTHER UPDATE:  Blizzard announes new features for the Mobile Armory, including a 3-D model viewer, a screenshot mode, activity feeds, etc.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/wow-mobile-armory-gets-3-d-model-viewer-activity-feeds-and-more/

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Plants Versus Zombies Ripoff in Cataclysm

Thanks to Kotaku, I know that there's going to be a Plants versus Zombies mini game inside Cataclysm.  Here's a long video from the Cynical Brit site for those who want to see how it will work or who are curious about the original Plants versus Zombies game.
http://kotaku.com/5643666/plants-vs-zombies-now-in-your-world-of-warcraft

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Cataclysm Talent Calculators

I noticed a lot of folks are searching for Cataclysm talent calculators this week.  I can recommend two:  MMO Champion's and WOW Head's.  Choose the one that works best for you as each site has a good reputation for solid information.  But remember, this is based on beta information.  Things can and will change.
http://cata.wowhead.com/talent

http://talent.mmo-champion.com/?#

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A Guide for the New Level 80

Gevlon discovered a new guild member hadn't a clue about how to play his new Level 80 character, so he wrote a general guide.  Very helpful information from the Greedy Goblin!  I'd ignore the paying gold for helpful advice, though.  Goblins think like that but why pay when you can research things on this site (and others) for free?  Google is your friend, goblins are not.
http://greedygoblin.blogspot.com/2010/09/guide-to-genuine-new-players.html

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Frostwing Halls on 10- and 25-man Normal

How to get through Frostwing Halls in ICC on normal mode.
http://morrighan13.wordpress.com/2010/09/21/icc-10-and-25-man-normal-crib-sheet-the-frostwing-halls/

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Cataclysm Guilds: Size Matters (and Doesn't)

Apparently Blizzard is tinkering with the new guild achievements in such a way that the bigger the guild, the easier it will be to get the achievements. Larisa is not pleased.
http://www.pinkpigtailinn.com/2010/09/blizzards-message-to-guilds-get-bigger.html

UPDATE:  Apparently Blizzard has announced that realm firsts will be shared between 10 and 25 man raids.  In other words, there won't be separate firsts for 10 man and 25 man groups.
http://www.lumethemad.com/2010/09/21/10-and-25-man-realm-firsts-shared/

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Cataclysm Beta Broken

BRK reports that the latest version of the Cataclysm beta has broken his loading screen and  a lot of other things.  Apparently beta forum rioting is about to break out.  Just a friendly warning if you are in the beta and haven't downloaded the latest patch yet--Don't.
http://www.bigredkitty.net/2010/09/19/borked-ftw/

http://www.bigredkitty.net/2010/09/20/deleteing-cache-didnt-work/

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Catacslym Changes Cold Weather Flying

Once Cataclysm hits, players can buy Cold Weather Flying at Level 68 for less than the current charge.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/cataclysm-beta-cold-weather-flying-at-68/

More on flying costs when the expansion hits.
http://www.broadbandreports.com/forum/r24779871-Cataclysm-Azeroth-Flight-costs

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BlizzCon on DirecTv and Internet Streaming

If you are already a DirecTv customer, you can visit BlizzCon October 22-23 on your television set via Pay Per View.  The cost is $29.95 plus extra charges if you call in the order via the phone or via a live operator on the phone.  You may order this between October 9 and October 22.  Note that if you aren't a DirecTv customer, they will give you BlizzCon Pay For View at no charge to sign up for the service.
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/content/blizzcon

Here's the Internet Streaming order information.  The site above says if you sign up for the DirecTv Pay Per View, you automatically get access to the Internet streaming videos.  A few more details here.
http://support.directv.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/2871/related/1

Hopefully once October 9 rolls around there will be more details about this service.  Last year information was scarce, especially if you signed up via the DirecTv site. I did find this site which may be where the four channels of streaming videos will happen.  It seems to be where folks who aren't DirecTv customers order just the streaming videos of BlizzCon.
http://blizzcon.rayv.com/

Here are the Live Streaming FAQs, including system requirements.
http://blizzcon.rayv.com/Pages/en/FAQ.aspx

Here's WOW Head's summary of the above.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=169996

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Yesterday was Pirate's Day (with Ninjas)

Due to the time difference, I didn't know that Kirina had updated her article on dressing like a pirate or ninja for 2010.  Sorry!
http://wowrpc.waddellconsulting.com/?p=2861

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Advice on Building Your Own High End Game Machine

The same guest writer wrote advice on building a good general game machine (2nd link) and on how to upgrade your current machine for Cataclysm before that (3rd link).  He's back with specific brand names and advice for building a very good game machine for under $2000.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/guest-post-building-an-epic-level-computer/

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/guest-post-how-to-assemble-a-hot-gaming-rig-for-cataclysm/

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/guest-post-is-your-computer-ready-for-cataclysm/

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Brewfest Information 2010

All the achievements, mounts, questions, etc. for the holiday.
http://cata.wowhead.com/blog=168811

If you need to dress for the holiday, Kirina has all the fashion tips you'll need.  As always, click on the small photos to see her outfits in all their glory.
http://wowrpc.waddellconsulting.com/?p=2874

Speaking of fashion, World of Warcraft Threads took advantage of Brewfest to farm for the Circle of Flame helm.  It's quite an effort but the helm looks worth it.
http://wowthreads.blogspot.com/2010/10/what-girl-will-do-for-clothes.html

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PowerPC Macs Won't Play Cataclysm

I believe I've mentioned before that PowerPC Macs won't be able to run Cataclysm.  Blizzard is dropping support for them just before Cataclysm hits.  Be warned.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168690

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Launcher Update Bug (and Fix)

An update to the launcher today (Sept. 18) is causing trouble for those running Windows on their game machines.  WOW Insider describes the problem here and a solution.  By the way, in the comments someone with a Macintosh is also having the same problem.  No word as to whether it was a Mac running Windows.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/launcher-update-today-causing-problems-how-to-fix/

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Tooltips for Dummies (Cataclysm)

In their never-ending quest to make WOW playable by any six year old, Cataclysm will introduce beginner tooltips, which is an optional feature you can turn off or on that allows players to reduce the complexity of the tooltip information.  More details here, for those of us who can read.  There are screenshots for those who can't (or won't).
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/cataclysm-beginner-tooltips-option-simplifies-abilities-for-rook/

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New Pets and Mounts in Cataclysm UPDATED A LOT

A list of new animals in the latest Cataclysm build.  No pictures except for the tiny dragon pet Deathy.  Sorry.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/cataclysm-beta-new-mounts-and-companion-pets-in-build-12984/

UPDATE:  Videos of Alliance and Horde Guild Mounts
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/cataclysm-beta-horde-and-alliance-guild-mounts/

UPDATE #2:  Worgen are their own mounts.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/cataclysm-beta-worgen-are-their-own-mounts/

UPDATE #3:  Players will be able to transform into a dragon mount and carry a second player on their back.
http://birdfall.blogspot.com/2010/09/alchemy-mount-or-they-found-it.html

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Blizzard Listens In and Avoids Responsibility

The Melting Pot is a bit shocked at Blizzard's making players agree to allow monitoring of their in-game conversations,
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/09/editorial-blizzard-are-a-bit-draconian/

...while Adam is annoyed that Blizzard is avoiding their responsibility to make the game less spammer friendly and allowing guilds to require authenticators.
http://thenoisyrogue.wordpress.com/2010/09/15/authenticators-are-rubbish/

Despite my annoyance at how Blizzard allows privacy to be breached, I do feel a little sorry for them trying to shut the barn door now that the animals have escaped.  Dammed if you do, dammed if you don't.

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Cataclysm Leveling Overview

Psynister has done us all a favor by describing leveling for various characters in the Cataclysm beta.  He talks in general about mailboxes, glyph vendors, profession trainers, flight paths, etc.  He is trying to stay away from spoilers and lore while giving readers a view of the changes.
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/09/14/leveling-overview-cataclysm-1-10/

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Decursive Removes Buffs and WOWGlory Lists Missing Achievements

How to use Decursive to remove buffs from yourself and others, with setup hints.
http://wowalone.blogspot.com/2010/09/decursive-other-weapon-in-my-healing.html

How to use WOWGlory to figure out who in your guild needs which achievements.
http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/09/raid-tools-wowglorycom.html

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Misdirection Macros for the Discerning Hunter

Long discussions of ways to use misdirection on various tanks in Lich King.
http://outdps.com/2010/09/14/misdirecting-different-tanks/

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How to Be Invisible Without Being Invisible

How to avoid notice in-game in Battlefields.  This covers everything from using a short name to not riding a giant mount.
http://blessingoffish.wordpress.com/2010/09/13/how-not-to-be-seen/

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Avoiding UI Problems in Cataclysm

Tips on how to avoid some of the pain that will happen when Cataclysm hits and borks your UI and addons.  It's a long and laborious process but necessary to play the game once an expansion comes out.
http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/09/cataclysm-moonkin-glyphs.html

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Cataclysm Druid (and Moonkin) Glyphs

A bit about the Cataclysm druid glyphs based on the beta.
http://www.restokin.com/2010/09/druid-glyphs-now-on-beta/

Now the Moonkin glyphs specifically.
http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/09/cataclysm-moonkin-glyphs.html

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Patch 4.0.1 Talents

Now that character information is on the public test realm in Patch 4.0.1, folks are starting to list the talents for various characters.  Here is what I've seen so far, listed by class.

Healing Priest Talents
http://bobturkey.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/healing-priest-talents-in-4-0/

Healing Shamans
http://www.worldofmatticus.com/2010/09/10/shaman-healing-so-far-in-cataclysm/

Mage Talents Preview
http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&id=40534021

Arcane Mage Talents
http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&id=40534018

Fire Mage Talents
http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&topic=PTR%204.0%20Fire%20Talents

Frost Mage Talents
http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&id=40534020

Raiding Discipline Priest Specs
http://www.worldofmatticus.com/2010/09/14/raiding-discipline-specs-for-priests-in-the-cataclysm-4-0-1-patch/
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Blizzard Prepares to Ban Starcraft 2 Cheaters UPDATED WITH SECOND BAN

Blizzard is threatening to ban Starcraft 2 cheaters (Sept. 2010).
http://www.1up.com/news/blizzard-ban-starcraft-2-cheaters

UPDATE:  More banning of cheaters (Dec. 2010).
http://kotaku.com/5702863/starcraft-2-developers-initiate-ban-rush

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Operation Gnomergaden Reviewed (With Videos)

A review of the new Gnomergaden which has gone live as part of the lead-up to Cataclysm.  (Adam doesn't think much of it, by the way.)
http://thenoisyrogue.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/operation-gomeawhateverthefuckitscalled/

Here's what happens.  Apparently it is buggy.
http://www.warcrafthuntersunion.com/2010/09/operation-gnomergan-explained/

However, Zal likes it.  Here are two videos he took so you can judge for yourself if this is something enjoyable.  This might help getting yourself to the right area, too.
http://blessingoffish.wordpress.com/2010/09/11/operation-gnomeregan/

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Tips on Choosing a Realm

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/wow-rookie-how-to-choose-a-new-realm/#continued

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Using Key Binding in PvP

An explanation of how key binding helps in PvP.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/the-art-of-war-craft-keybinding-your-way-to-winning-form/

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Details on Brewfest 2010 (September 30-October 6)

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/the-overachiever-guide-to-brewfest-2010-achievements/

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New Cataclsym 10v10 Battleground Information

Details on the Battle for Gilneas.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168595

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Activision Considers a Cutscene Starcraft Movie

Per quote from Bobby Kotick.  Sigh.
http://kotaku.com/5639929/activision-considers-selling-video-game-cutscenes

UPDATE:  Apparently Fahey didn't dream the above.  1Up reports they are thinking about a digital download movie.
http://www.1up.com/news/activision-in-game-cutscene-movies

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WOW is Ad Free For Now UPDATED

A discussion of trading in-game advertising for being able to pay without a subscription.
http://www.pinkpigtailinn.com/2010/09/wow-remains-ad-free-for-now.html

Activision denies they plan to have ads inside the game and make it free to play.
http://www.1up.com/news/activision-denies-plans-charge-online

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Frost Mage Talents in Patch 4.0.1

Tacyon goes over the talents for frost mages on the Patch 4.0.1 public test realm.
http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&topic=PTR%204.0%20Frost%20Talents

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Harvest Festival Clothing UPDATE

Harvest Festival starts today and Kirina has harvest-themed outfits for your viewing pleasure.
http://wowrpc.waddellconsulting.com/?page_id=95

UPDATE:  Here's some info about the Harvest Festival.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/breakfast-topic-harvest-festival-begins-today/

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First Stage of Cataclysm Downloader Available

Looks to me like Blizzard wants Cataclysm out about the time of BlizzCon (October 22-23).  The first stage of the Patch 4.0.1 is available to download in the background.  According to the comments here, it is buggy and incomplete and 1.58 GB.  In the Comments Zef adds this tip, "If you are having trouble opening the downloader from the launcher window, just find the 'BackgroundDownloader.exe' file in your World of Warcraft folder and open it directly."

http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/patch-4-0-1-now-available-on-background-downloader/

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The Elitest Armory is Dead UPDATED

The Solo MMO Player is sad to say that the Elitest Armory is dead.  With Cataclysm coming up, everything would have to be redone and Shadow doesn't plan to play the expansion.
http://elitistarmory.com/

It was a terrific site which the Solo MMO Player hates to say goodbye to.  I'l leave the link in Favorite Links for a while in case someone new takes on the responsibility of rebuilding this for Cataclysm.

UPDATE:  This site is supposed to do basically the same thing but the Solo MMO Player says it is clunkier to use.
http://www.warcrafter.net/

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Hunters in the Cataclysm Beta

The Solo MMO Player says this is a great collection of information for folks curious about hunters in Cataclysm.
http://www.warcrafthuntersunion.com/cataclysm/

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Exploring Cataclysm in the Public Test Realm

With the 4.0.1 Patch available on the public test realm, folks willing to download the 16 gig file who aren't in the beta can explore Cataclysm's new classes and talents (but not any of the new quests or raids).  Blessing of Kings is looking at the paladin in the two links below.
http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/09/40-early-paladin.html

http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/09/40-early-levels-part-ii.html

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Catacslym's New Currency System UPDATED

Bizzard has announced that current badges will be changd to a new currency system (Justice Points) when Cataclysm comes out.  The same thing will happen in PvP where tokens will become Honor Points.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168435

UPDATE  Blizzard has released the currency exchange rates.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168504

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Guild Bank Organization

A discussion (mostly in the comments) about guild banks and how best to organize them.
http://thestoppableforce.net/2010/09/14/tell-me-about-your-guild-bank/

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Why You Should/Shouldn't Mention WOW on the First Date

Whether it's a good idea to mention WOW on a first date, from the female perspective. With pie charts!
http://bossypally.wordpress.com/2010/09/11/wow-on-the-first-date-a-geeky-chicks-take/

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Unknown Addons

The Pot lists a few new addons that might be just what you need.  Covered are addons that allow linking to stats, remind you to take a break from the game, a dallies tracker, and a guild shared paint board.  This is a two part article.  I'll post the second here when it goes live.
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/09/fresh-brew-addons-that-save-your-eyes-hunt-your-dailies-and-express-the-artist-in-you/

http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/09/fresh-brew-addons-that-optimize-your-levelling-take-you-down-memory-lane-and-turn-your-enchanter-into-a-moneybags/

http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/09/fresh-brew-addons-that-de-stickynote-your-walls-organise-your-raid-invites-and-size-up-your-enemies/

More miscellaneous addons from WOW Insider.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/addon-spotlight-grab-bag-2/

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Fashion for the Working Stiff

Kirina's Closet has a new version of her working man's outfits article up.  Click on the tiny thumbnails to get a good view of how dashing things like the the Stylin' Jungle Hat look.
http://wowrpc.waddellconsulting.com/?page_id=533

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Build a Game Machine

Good information on building a good budget game PC, such as why "true output" is important when shopping for power supplies.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/13/guest-post-how-to-assemble-a-hot-gaming-rig-for-cataclysm

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WOW Insider is Going To Become WOW Insider Again

I feel like a genius for never changing how I referred to the site here.  Just hope this doesn't mess up the links we have collected!
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/13/wow-com-is-moving-to-wow-joystiq-com/

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Videos of Cataclysm

Videos of Cataclysm:  part one is Kalimdor and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zi4yV9u53as&feature=player_embedded

part two are the Eastern Kingdoms.  Thanks to WOW Insider for pointing this out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okRkEcLMHc0&feature=player_embedded

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Hunter Pets in Cataclysm

The foxes dance and there are buffs related to pets.  Plus there is some good info in this article.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/13/scattered-shots-cataclysm-pet-design-pass/

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Public Test Realms Live for Patch 4.0.1

You can now download the 16 gig Patch 4.0.1 is now live and downloadable.  This shows the class changes (including the new talents I believe) and the changes to the UI but the new Cataclysm content such as zones or quests or the new characters is not available.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/11/patch-4-0-1-ptr-patch-notes-ptr-is-live/

Blessing of Kings started a new paladin to experience the new leveling.  You can read what he thinks here.
http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/09/40-early-paladin.html

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Disrupting Gold Spammers UPDATED

Using the Piccolo of the Flaming Fire trinket to break up gold spammer groups.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/12/breakfast-topic-revenge-is-oh-so-sweet/

UPDATE:  Screenshots and details of how to get the Piccolo.
http://huntsmanslodge.com/7991/dont-just-spam-there-bust-a-move.htm

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The Basics of Raiding

Learning how to raid, based on the assumption that more people than ever will try to raid when Cataclysm comes out.  This is very basic information, suitable for a new player who has never raided.
http://www.wow.com/2010/08/27/ready-check-raiding-101/

http://www.wow.com/2010/09/10/ready-check-raiding-102/

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How Archaeology Works in Catacylsm UPDATED

A description of archaeology as it is currently working in the Cataclysm beta.
http://www.stabilizedeffortscope.com/?p=1588

WOW Head has an archaeology skills page.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=170119

A two part article about archaeology.
http://hellotauren.blogspot.com/2010/12/intro-to-archaeology.html

http://hellotauren.blogspot.com/2010/12/intro-to-wow-archaeology-extra-credit.html

An addon that puts archaeology information in its own window.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/addon-spotlight-minimal-archaeology/

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Cataclysm Flying Costs More

It will cost 250 gold to buy a license to fly in Cataclysm.  "This skills [sp] allows players to fly on Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdom continents, including the new level 80-85 zones, and is trainable at level 60."
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/09/cataclysm-beta-old-weather-flying-will-cost-250g/

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Is Cataclysm the End of WOW?

Now that the Cataclysm Beta is well under way, I'm starting to see articles like the ones below from long-time players who are comparing various aspects of the WOW expansions to Lich King and find them lacking.  This leads them to worry about what Cataclysm has in store.

The tier sets in Lich King are inferior to those in earlier expansions and the original game.

http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/09/tier-sets-in-wrath.html

Thanks to the Pot, I discovered this great analaysis of the game through Lich King.  This is definitely worth a read if you are interested in game design as Blacksen talks at length about various game mechanics added in both PvE and PvP play.

http://blacksen.com/?p=453

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Moonkin Theorycrafting: DoTs and Eclipse

Graylo asks and answers the question:  Should moonkins cast DoTs only at the beginning of Eclipse?
http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/09/fun-w-simulationcraft-wotlk-rotations.html

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Prepping Hunter Gear for Cataclysm

Brian covers the gear you need to get right now to level your hunter up to 85 in Cataclysm.  He talks about what is known about how hunters will spec in Cataclysm when it hits in a few months and how to plan accordingly.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/09/scattered-shots-gear-for-cataclysm-leveling/

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Addons for the Mouse Addict

If you prefer to navigate via your mouse instead of keyboard, you may be interested in Healium.  This addon for healers sets up heals so they can be clicked on to activate.  There's a video of it in action embedded in this article.  Note that Clique can also be set up to be activated by mouse clicks.  Speedy Actions is also spotlighted as it helps make mouse users faster.  The article also mentions the Logitech G-15 keyboard and the G-13 keypad, which are particularly useful for disabled players.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/09/addon-spotlight-addons-for-clickers/

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Feral Druid Tank Spec (Patch 3.5)

The Daily Druid says this feral druid tanking spec (Patch 3.3) is good for Patch 3.5 as there haven't been many changes.
http://www.tankspot.com/showthread.php?40502-WOTLK-Feral-Druid-Guide

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Pre-Cataclysm Events Start

Apparently the pre-Cataclysm events are starting today after the regularly scheduled downtime.  The Solo MMO Player saw notice of this in-game last night.  WOWHead has a guide to the Operation Gnomegan (Alliance) and Zalazane's Fall/Echoes Isle (Horde) events here.
http://www.wowhead.com/guide=cataclysm&prelaunch

The starting point for these quests, the announcements and the fact that they count toward the Loremaster Achievement are here, along with other links.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/07/operation-gnomeregan-and-zalazanes-fall-events-now-available/

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Cataclysm 5-Man Bug Disconnects

The current build of Cataclysm's beta has a bug that disconnects players who join 5-mans.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/07/shifting-perspectives-notes-from-bizarro-world/

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Cataclysm Computer Specs UPDATED

WOW Insider has started a three part article on what computer you'll need to run Cataclysm.  It covers basics like how to identify your heatsink, what main brands of video cards are available, etc.  (Note:  They've not done any more than this first article in this series.)
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/07/guest-post-is-your-computer-ready-for-cataclysm/


UPDATE:  Blizzard has released the Cataclysm system specs.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/blizzard-releases-cataclysm-system-requirements/


Remember, Power PCs (Mac) can't play Cataclysm and probably are disabled as of Patch 4.0.1 or 4.0.3.
http://www.1up.com/news/warcraft-patch-disabling-support

http://www.wowhead.com/blog=168690

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Today is Pet Day

Lissanna helps solo hunters whose pets aren't holding aggro.
http://dungeonplay.net/2010/08/making-sure-your-pet-holds-aggro-while-soloing/

Then she turns her attention to taming spirit beasts and stable slots for those who have dual specs on their hunters.
http://dungeonplay.net/2010/08/questions-about-taming-spirit-beasts-and-stable-slots/

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Dress as a Cheerleader (or Assassin)

The Fashionable Gnome is going all out with two new articles, one on how to dress like a cheerleader (in either red or green ensembles)
http://tagalongfashion.blogspot.com/2010/09/weve-got-spirit.html

and the other how to dress up like Assassin's Creed, complete with dangerous glove.
http://tagalongfashion.blogspot.com/2010/09/assassins-tweed_06.html

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How Cataclysm Changes Mage Auras

Once again Blizzard rips off addon ideas to change their standard UI.
http://www.manaobscura.com/2010/09/cataclysm-ui-mage-auras/

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Lich King's Best Boss Fights

The best boss battles.
http://ferarro.blogspot.com/2010/09/best-5-boss-fights-in-wotlk-and-maybe.html

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Priests: Crit Versus Spellpower (Theorycrafting)

What crit and spellpower do for priests. (Recommended by BobTurkey.)
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/05/spiritual-guidance-shield-spam-and-divine-aegis-a-theorycrafti/

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RESOURCES COURTESY OF IMRAITH

Imraith the Aloof has complied several nice lists of resourcees on her blog.  Check out the Pages section on the right for class-specific macros, links to gear and class resources, profession info, and some Auction House material.  Looks like she has a good eye for helpful information and the knack for organizing it well.  This is definitely a resource to check out.
http://imraithdossantos.blogspot.com/

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China Has It, We Don't

Apparently, Blizzard has been forced to add a word filter to the trade line in the Chinese version of Lich King that was just released to remove "objectionable" words.  Apparently it also works at the login level as folks with names that don't pass the filter are asked to change them.
http://chinagame.178.com/201009/77744168200.html

If Blizzard can automtically filter out nasty trade chat language and objectionable names to get approval to sell their game in China, why can't that be done all over?  Especially now that the immaturity level in-game it hitting record highs?  Not only are younger and younger folks playing, a huge number of folks are playing with a level of vulgarity, homophobia, racism, sexism and bullying behavior that is amazing to me.

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Cataclysm Fashion

WOW Threads is cruising the Cataclysm beta, looking at the scenery and especially the outfits.  Low rider pants!  What every male toon needs....
http://wowthreads.blogspot.com/2010/09/vashjir-and-some-gear.html

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Hardward and Connection Tips for PvP

A few hardware and Internet connection tips for PvP players.  Basic, commonsense information but I think the tips for turning your video settings low might be useful for some players and there are good ideas for minimizing latency problems in PvP.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/02/the-art-of-war-craft-a-handy-guide-to-winning-at-everything/

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

OnLive On Sale and Via Wifi UPDATED

The OnLive gaming service is planning a sale for the Labor Day weekend.  They also announced a beta for Wi-Fi service but without a date for this to begin.
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-rolling-game-sale-wifi

UPDATE:  OnLive is shipping its console device in December. For a monthly fee you can play games on your television without a computer.
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-console-shipping-december-99

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

PvP Terrain Exploits

How do terrain exploits differ from regular PvP moves?  Cynwise talks about Blizzard's rule against exploits, how this applies to PvP and the problems inherent in figuring out just what is bannable and what isn't in the PvP world.
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/09/02/the-walls-of-wintergrasp-and-terrain-exploits/

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Naming Violations Rampant

Metaneria points out all the naming violations she sees in-game and wishes Blizzard would do more to control the idiocy and rampant abuse.
http://www.empoweredfire.com/2010/09/02/naming-violations-in-wow/

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Shaman Site

I stumbled across mention of a shaman site while reading blogs this morning.  Sadly I can't remember who mentioned this, but it looks like a great shammy resource.  It's been added to the Shaman Tab and also to the Favorite Links.
http://totemspot.com/

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Cataclysm Changes Alert

BBB just learned that when Cataclysm hits, Zul'Gurub (a 20 man raid in Vanilla WOW) will disappear.  Some mage Polymorth spells can be gotten here and there are rare mounts, too.  No one knows if these items will be moved to another portion of the game, so if you are interested, read the two links below.

http://thebigbearbutt.com/2010/09/01/oh-noes-zulgurub-going-going-gone/

http://almostevil.blogspot.com/2009/02/farming-zulgurub.html

By the way, there have been changes to the UI in the beta that have a nice Eclipse bar.   Druids may want to check out the photos here.

http://www.restokin.com/2010/09/new-cata-eclipse-bar-pictures/

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Blizzard Customer Service's Twitter Account

The article isn't sure if outages will be reported here.
http://www.wow.com/2010/09/01/blizzard-customer-service-now-has-its-own-twitter-account/

Here's the direct link.
http://twitter.com/BlizzardCS

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Rogue Leveling Guide (Patch 3.3.5)

A new leveling guide for rogues from Psynister.  First, level 1-29.
http://bowdowntous.com/index.php/wow/comments/rogue_leveling_guide_1_29_combat

Levels 30-49 (Combat)
http://bowdowntous.com/index.php/wow/comments/rogue_leveling_guide_30_49_combat

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Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com