How to create your own WoW private server using AzerothCore

Creating your own World of Warcraft private server with AzerothCore allows for deep customization and management of the game environment. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started.

1. Prerequisites and Downloads

Before starting, ensure you have the following tools installed:

• MySQL or MariaDB – Required for database management.
  MariaDB Download MySQL Download
• Git – For cloning the AzerothCore repository.
  Git Download
• CMake – Required for configuring the build.
  CMake Download
• C++ Compiler (GCC or MSVC) – For compiling the server files.
  GCC for Linux Visual Studio (MSVC) for Windows
• WoW 3.3.5a Client (Wrath of the Lich King) – Required for connecting to your server.
  (Widely available on fan forums)

2. Setting Up Your Environment

1. Install MySQL or MariaDB
   For Ubuntu:
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install mariadb-server
2. Clone the AzerothCore Repository
   
   git clone https://github.com/azerothcore/azerothcore-wotlk.git
   cd azerothcore-wotlk
3. Install CMake and a C++ Compiler
   Ubuntu:
   sudo apt install cmake gcc g++
4. Run the Setup Script
   
   ./acore.sh docker-setup

3. Building and Compiling the Server

1. Generate Build Files with CMake
   
   cmake ../ -DCMAKE_INSTALL_PREFIX=/where/you/want/to/install
2. Compile the Server
   
   make -j4
   make install
3. Set Up the Database
   
   mysql -u root -p < path_to_azerothcore/sql/base/db_world.sql

4. Configuring Your Server

1. Configure authserver.conf and worldserver.conf
   Update database credentials and other settings in these files.
2. Set the Realmlist in the WoW Client
   
   set realmlist your-server-ip

5. Running Your WoW Private Server

1. Start the Server
   
   ./authserver
   ./worldserver
2. Log into Your Server
   Launch WoW, change the realmlist, and connect to your private server.

6. Adding Your Server to Topgam.ing

Once your server is live, you can list it on Topgam.ing to attract players. Follow these steps:

1. Create an Account on Topgam.ing if you haven't already.
2. Go to "My Profile" and select "My Site(s)".
3. Click "Add a New Server" and fill out the details, such as server name, description, URL, and game (in this case, WoW).
4. Submit the Server for approval. Once reviewed, your server will be listed, and players will be able to discover and vote for it!

7. Optional Customization and Add-Ons

Custom Content: AzerothCore allows for extensive customization, such as adding custom NPCs, quests, and game mechanics.

Mods/Add-ons: You can enhance your server with mods like mod-battleground or mod-talent to further enrich the gameplay experience.