As with other MMORPGs such as EverQuest, players control a character avatar within a persistent gameworld, exploring the landscape, fighting monsters and performing quests on behalf of computer-controlled characters. The game rewards success through money, items, and experience which allow players' characters to improve in skill and power. In addition, WOW players may opt to take part in battles against other players, including both duels and fights against player characters allied with an enemy faction.The highest level, most complex dungeons and encounters are designed to take raiding guilds months of playtime and many attempts before they succeed.
 
A screenshot of the gameMany quests and monsters through the early and middle stages of game play can be conquered alone without the help of other players, particularly if the player's character is higher level than his opponents. Other portions of the game, such as its instanced dungeon areas, are designed to require players to work together for success. Dungeons are designed for parties ranging from two to five players, up to significantly more difficult "raids" (a term originating from EverQuest gameplay) requiring up to a maximum of 40 players.