Blizzard Sues WoW Private Server It Alleges Raked In Millions
Blizzard Entertainment, the developer behind World of Warcraft, has launched legal action against Project Ascension, a private server it claims has raked in millions through copyright infringement and other illegal activities. In a court filing dated June 12 in California, Blizzard accuses the creators of Ascension WoW of operating a massive-scale illegal business based on the exploitation of its intellectual property.
The lawsuit highlights that Project Ascension has distributed illegal copies of World of Warcraft, used copyrighted materials, and accepted donations, effectively building a profitable enterprise on the ongoing infringement of Blizzard's IP. According to the court document, the defendants have found a lucrative way to profit from the popularity of World of Warcraft while deliberately evading detection and safeguarding against takedown notices or legal action.
Project Ascension's Alleged Ties to a Criminal Enterprise
Blizzard also claims that Project Ascension is hosted by the Aeza Group, a Russia-based company known for enabling cybercriminals and technology theft. The Aeza Group was sanctioned by the US government in 2025, according to the US Department of the Treasury. The court filing suggests that Project Ascension's decision to partner with such an unsavory entity demonstrates intent to engage in unlawful activity.
Unlike previous cases, such as the lawsuit against Turtle WoW, many of the named defendants in this case are based in the US. However, they are alleged to have hidden their involvement through multiple shell companies, which have no physical presence or employees. These companies are said to be used to conceal assets and avoid US tax obligations.
Blizzard has stated that it is informed and believes that Derek Powell and Bryan Thomas Mannion, the two main individuals behind Project Ascension, have earned millions of dollars from their private server. As part of its lawsuit, Blizzard is seeking the handover of all illegal copies of the game, the shutdown of Project Ascension, monetary compensation, and a full accounting of all funds collected in connection with the private server.
The Last Major Private Server Standing
Project Ascension is considered the last major private server still operating after the takedown of Turtle WoW and Stormforge in April. According to its website, the server offers multiple ways to play, including a classless version of World of Warcraft, where players can mix and match abilities, and a version featuring 21 new classes "inspired deeply by Warcraft lore."
In its previous legal action against Turtle WoW, the court ruled in favor of Blizzard, leading to a private settlement between the two parties. Shortly after, Stormforge announced it would shut down following a cease and desist from Blizzard.
Could Classic+ Be on the Horizon?
Blizzard's recent actions against private servers have led to speculation that a new version of WoW Classic may be imminent. Fans are reminded that Blizzard last shut down a major private server in 2016, when Nostalrius was taken offline. Just a year later, WoW Classic was launched, offering a nostalgic experience for older players.
This pattern has led to rumors that Blizzard could be preparing to unveil a new version of WoW Classic, which fans have dubbed "Classic+". This hypothetical version would allow players to explore original WoW with new content and updates without progressing through the game's expansions.
While Blizzard has not officially announced any plans for WoW Classic in 2026, the 2026 State of Azeroth presentation hinted that Classic players have "a lot to look forward to." Fans are now speculating what new features, updates, or surprises might be in store for the classic version of World of Warcraft.
