World of Warcraft uses server clusters (known as 'realms') to allow players to choose their preferred gameplay type and to allow the game to support as many subscribers as it does. There are four types of realms:
* Normal (also known as PvE or player versus environment), * PvP (player versus player), * RP (a roleplaying Normal/PvE server) and * RP-PvP (roleplaying PvP server). The latter two enforce a set of roleplaying rules - players can be penalized for not roleplaying.
Upon defeating another player of the opposite faction in a World of Warcraft PvP combat the victor earns "Honor Points" which may be spent as currency to purchase various rewards like armor, weapons and mounts. Some rewards require marks of honor from various Battlegrounds as well (a loss in a battleground awards the winner's team 1 mark, while a victory awards 3). A recently added PvP activity (the Arenas) offer gladiator-like combat in a World of Warcraft setting. The Arenas have a separate system from the Battlegrounds. Instead of honor the Arenas give Arena Points which can be spent to purchase items just like Honor Points. There are also "Arena seasons" where, at the end of each season, the best Arena teams in each category(2v2, 3v3 and 5v5) are awarded unique Epic or Legendary quality items. Only level 70 players can participate in rated arena matches. Lower level players can always participate in arenas but no arena points are awarded.
Players can also be rewarded with titles in the Arenas if they belong to one of the top teams at the end of an Arena season. These ranks are (from highest to lowest) Gladiator, Duelist, Rival and Challenger.
Review of PVP Guides available:
(a) Spugnort PVP Guide
Comprehensive WoW PvP Guide, covering every aspect of PvP in World of Warcraft from duels, to battlegrounds, and even arenas.
World of Warcraft PVP combat is fast and exciting -- more so if you're winning. The World of Warcraft PVP guide walks you through each class's strengths, weaknesses, and how to win in every situation.
