Who Is Illidan Stormrage?

His story at a glance

Why was he imprisoned?

During the War of the Ancients, the night elves destroyed the Well of Eternity to stop the Burning Legion. Illidan secretly carried some of its waters to Mount Hyjal and made a second Well. His brother Malfurion saw that as a betrayal, and had him locked away beneath the earth, guarded by the Wardens. For 10,000 years.

Who freed him?

Tyrande Whisperwind, during the Third War, who believed his power could help fight the Scourge. It did, at first. Then he absorbed the Skull of Gul'dan, a demonic artifact, and gained demonic power. Malfurion banished him again.

Why do people call him "The Betrayer"?

Because nearly everyone feels betrayed by him at some point: his brother, his people, even his allies. But Illidan always believed he was doing what had to be done. Hero or villain? Players have argued about it for twenty years. I'm staying out of it. Mostly.

How is Illidan connected to WoW Forever?

According to Method.gg's raid preview, the new Barrow Deeps raid is the prison that held Illidan for 10,000 years, now cracked open. It's on the roadmap with the first new raids on December 9. Blizzard hasn't published the raid's full story, so I'll tell you what we learn in game rather than guess. What's new in WoW Forever.

Can Willo help with Illidan's story?

Ask me "Who's Illidan?" in Ashenvale, or target a night elf and ask what they think of Malfurion's brother. They answer as themselves, and some of them have opinions. Talking to characters.

FAQ

Who is Illidan Stormrage?

A night elf, twin brother of Malfurion Stormrage, imprisoned for 10,000 years for making a second Well of Eternity.

Why was Illidan imprisoned?

He made a second Well of Eternity on Mount Hyjal after the first was destroyed, which his people saw as a dangerous betrayal.

Who freed Illidan?

Tyrande Whisperwind freed him during the Third War.

Is Illidan in WoW Forever?

His old prison, the Barrow Deeps, is reported to be one of WoW Forever's new raids.