Welcome to another episode of QJ.NET's World of Warcraft Weekend Warrior! This week warms up to some big updates regarding Wrath of the Lich King, specifically regarding its highly anticipated Beta run. There's also new talk regarding the Vivendi-Activision merger, while an old rumor regarding Naxxramas has quite literally risen from the dead.

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Much like a fallen Paladin we've all learned to love (or hate, if you happen to be an Illidan fan), we're sure plenty of WoW gamers would give just about anything to get a crack at Northrend's frozen throne. Guess what - you'll finally get that chance as Blizzard readies up WotLK's open beta signups. Stay frosty.

Link: Rumor: Wrath of the Lich King closed beta to begin in July?
Link: European and North American WotLK beta registration pages now up *Update*
Link: Blizzard releases WotLK beta opt-in FAQ

Diablo was not the only lord of darkness that made waves at Blizzard's Worldwide Invitational. The event also revealed some new information regarding WoW's latest expansion, ranging from Death Knight first impressions previews of Northrend's more audacious non-linear dungeon mechanics.

Link: World of Warcraft: A quick Worldwide Invitational wrap-up

 

Speaking of dungeons, grabbing just as much attention as WotLK is the expected revival of Naxxramas. While Bornakk explained Blizzard's decision to remake Naxx as an entry-level raid, a rumor in the forums revived prospects of a world event that just might kick in to signal the raid instance's new residence up in Northrend. What say you, Khel'Thuzad?

Link: World of Warcraft: Bornakk on Naxxramas as an entry-level raid
Link: World of Warcraft rumor: Second Scourge invasion in the works?

Somewhat related to WoW is the upcoming merger between Vivendi, Blizzard Entertainment's parent corporation, and Activision. Blizz may have called the shots on this alliance, but as you can imagine, there will always be opposition to moves like this.

Link: Court junks shareholder request to stop Activision Vivendi merger
Link: Blizzard: Activision was our choice for merger

A lot of people walked away from the WWI happy, and it's not just because of Blizzard's revelations. The company's recently released Authenticator key has recently sold out in the U.S., and was unavailable for other regions due to shipping related issues. On the lighter side, the company's going to be launching a new Diablo-inspired pet, though that also comes with a catch.

Link: That was fast: Blizzard Authenticator now sold out
Link: World of Warcraft: Guidelines for Worldwide Invitational pet redemption

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Whatever assumptions or speculation you had regarding Wrath of the Lich King, put them away. Blizzard's beta signups should ensure that regardless of who gets picked, we'll be getting fresh new information straight from the front line. On the other, the merger news may worry some of us, especially with regard to how Activision may try to steer Blizzard in the days to come.

Here's to hoping Activision leaves Blizz free to do it business as it always has. They better - Blizzard got quite a track record speaking on its behalf.