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New WOW patch revealed

Two new dungeons opened.

Blizzard has announced details of the new 1.9 patch for PC MMORPG World of Warcraft.

The main feature will be Ahn'Qiraj, a new instance in Silithus that will house two huge new dungeons - the Ruins of Ahn'Qirah, a 20-man raid dungeon, and the Temple of Ahn'Qiraj, for 40-man raids.

As you explore the area you'll learn more about the Silithid infestation and their scary masters, the Quiraji. Oh, and you'll have to complete "a world event of massive proportions" before you can open the gates of Ahn'Qiraj on your realm.

Patch 1.9 will also make it easier to buy and sell stuff thanks to the arrival of the Linked Auction House System. The Horde auction houses will be located in Orgrimmar, Undercity and Thunder Bluff, while Alliance players will need to head to Ironforge, Stormwind and Darnassus. In addition, the neutral auction houses at Tanarius, Everlook and Booty Bay will be linked so that players of both factions can access them.

The "Looking for Group" and "Trade" channels have also been linked between cities - so, for example, you can do a bit of trading in Ironforge even though you're in Stormwind.

The patch will put an end to multiple battleground queues, so you can either join the first one that becomes available or hang on for the battleground you really want. Other improvements will include updates to all three Paladin talent trees, and high-level class armour sets are getting a graphical overhaul.

Blizzard said there will be lots of other fixes and changes too - but you'll just have to wait for the full list. There's no word on when the patch will be released as yet, but we'll keep you posted.