Throughout World of Warcraft’s rich history, trust is often a fragile thing. Time and again, the people of Azeroth have placed their faith in leaders, allies, and even their own kin—only to be met with shocking betrayal. These moments have shaped the fate of Azeroth and forever changed the game’s lore. Here are the most infamous betrayals in WoW history.

1. Arthas Menethil’s Descent into Darkness

Once the beloved prince of Lordaeron, Arthas Menethil’s tragic fall from grace remains one of the most devastating betrayals in Warcraft’s history.

How He Betrayed Azeroth:

• Purged Stratholme, slaughtering his own people to stop a plague.
• Claimed the cursed sword Frostmourne, sealing his fate.
• Led the Scourge against Lordaeron, killing his own father.

Arthas’s transformation into the Lich King marked one of the most iconic villain arcs in gaming history.

2. Illidan Stormrage’s Betrayal of Malfurion and Tyrande

Illidan Stormrage, brother of Malfurion, was once a hero—but his thirst for power led him down a dark path.

How He Betrayed Azeroth:

• Consumed the power of the Skull of Gul’dan, corrupting himself.
• Turned his back on his people, allying with demons.
• Declared himself the Lord of Outland, challenging both the Horde and Alliance.

Though seen as a villain, Illidan’s story later took a turn, revealing him as more of an anti-hero than a true betrayer.

3. Garrosh Hellscream’s Tyranny

Garrosh began as an honorable leader, but his obsession with power and conquest ultimately led to the division of the Horde.

How He Betrayed the Horde:

• Used the Heart of Y’Shaarj to gain immense power.
• Oppressed non-orc races within the Horde.
• Led the Horde into a war against itself, forcing Vol’jin to lead a rebellion.

Garrosh’s actions split the Horde, leading to the Siege of Orgrimmar and his downfall.

4. Sylvanas Windrunner’s Deception

One of the most controversial figures in WoW, Sylvanas’s actions have blurred the line between loyalty and betrayal.

How She Betrayed the Horde:

• Burned Teldrassil, committing an unprovoked act of genocide.
• Abandoned the Horde after using them as pawns.
• Allied with the Jailer, nearly dooming all of Azeroth.

Her story remains one of the most debated and polarizing in WoW’s history.

5. Deathwing’s Betrayal of the Dragonflights

Once known as Neltharion the Earth-Warder, Deathwing’s corruption shattered the trust of the dragonflights.

How He Betrayed Azeroth:

• Turned against his own kind, manipulating and enslaving other dragons.
• Nearly caused Azeroth’s destruction in the Cataclysm.
• Created the Twilight Dragonflight to serve the Old Gods.

Deathwing’s betrayal reshaped the world, leaving permanent scars across Azeroth.

Conclusion

Betrayal is a recurring theme in WoW’s storytelling, reminding players that even the strongest heroes can fall. These moments define Azeroth’s history and continue to impact the game’s future.

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