In the latest World of Warcraft expansion, Embers of Neltharion, we are introduced to two fresh factions that we must befriend in order to gain access to their valuable knowledge. These factions have resided within the unexplored region of Zaralek Caverns for centuries, accumulating a wealth of information.
This guide will provide an in-depth analysis of the Niffens and Drogbars, examining their distinct characteristics, special abilities, innovative recipes, Renown System, and all aspects pertaining to these new WoW factions.
Let’s start our acquaintance with the funniest and cutest faction – Niffen. If you remember Niffler from Fantastic Beasts, then you already know Niffen. The Niffen possess a remarkable sense of smell that allows them to navigate through the caverns with ease. Unlike humans who rely on sight to navigate, the Niffen use their noses to detect scents and determine where to go and where not to go. This unique ability is crucial during quests that involve the Niffen, as they can track scent trails with great accuracy.
This feature brings us to a new mechanic – Sniffen Seeking. This new mechanic unlocks through the Renown track and allow you, with the help of your new friend Niffen, to avoid dangerous places and find hidden treasures. However, what a treasure for Niffen may turn out to be garbage for you, but maybe someday your tastes will coincide. Build relationships with your Niffen, uncovering their unique story and background and your joint adventures will become not only interesting, but also useful.
Niffens are representatives of a brave but reasonable race. They do not go deep into the cave often, but generally live at the exit from it, in the safest place. The natural caves offer a diverse range of rocky terrain, including cavernous areas with pointed stalactites and stalagmites, creating a stunning sight to behold. Additionally, there are crystalline formations with a distinctive greenish glow that adds to the beauty of the caves.
Niffen Faction Renown System
In the latest Patch 10.1 PTR build was revealed full faction Renown reward track for the Loamm Niffen faction. After the successful completion of the first chapter of the 10.1 Embers of Neltharion campaign, the faction and Renown track will be unlocked.
Renown rewards
Renown Level
Reward
1
Loamm Niffen: You begin to gain renown with the Loamm Niffen. Account-wide Unlock.
2
Hidden Treasures I: You may now sniff treasures hidden within Zaralek Cavern. Account-wide Unlock.
3
Loamm Bartering: You may now barter for items with Ponzo in Loamm. Speak with Kayann to learn how to barter.
4
Drake’s Shadowflame Crest: Speak with Mimuup in Loamm to receive a Drake’s Shadowflame Crest, used to upgrade higher-level Veteran gear and lower-level Champion gear to ilvl 424.
Flightstones: Speak with Mimuup in Loamm to receive 75 Flightstones. Flightstones are used to empower Dragonflight Season 2 equipment at Item Upgrade NPCs.
5
Drakewatcher Manuscripts I: Purchase chin, crest and horn Winding Slitherdrake customizations from Harlowe Marl in Loamm (Account-wide Unlock):
Niffen Diggin’ Mitts: Receive the Niffen Diggin’ Mitts from Mimuup in Loamm. This toy allows you to dig your way back to Loamm from anywhere in the Zaralek Cavern. Account-wide Unlock.
Scent of a Worthy Ally I: Allow other characters on your account to gain 100% additional reputation with the Loamm Niffen while their renown is below rank 10. Account-wide Unlock.
11
Hidden Treasures II: You may now sniff bigger treasures hidden within Zaralek Cavern. Account-wide Unlock.
Loamm Bartering Bettered: You may now find Barter Boulder in Zaralek Cavern, which are more effective for bartering.
Crafter’s Knowledge: You may now purchase profession crafting knowledge books from Harlowe Marl. Each book costs 300 and grants 10 Knowledge for that profession. This is a one-time purchase per profession. Account-wide Unlock.
13
Drakewatcher Manuscripts II: Purchase hair, horn and jaw Winding Slitherdrake customizations from Harlowe Marl in Loamm (Account-wide Unlock):
Sniffin’ with the Niffen: Earn the Smelly %s title. Account-wide Unlock.
A Heroic Reward: Speak with Mimuup in Loamm to earn a Wyrm’s Shadowflame Crest, which can either be used to upgrade high-level Champion and low-level Hero gear, or crafted into an optional reagent that increases crafted gear item level to 424-437.
Scent of a Worthy Ally II: Allow other characters on your account to gain 100% additional reputation with the Loamm while their renown is below rank 20, and 200% additional reputation if below renown rank 10. Account-wide Unlock.
Bartering Boulders: You may now purchase Barter Boulder directly from Harlowe Marl. Account-wide Unlock.
Drogbar Faction
The other race we’ll encounter in Zaralek Cavern is the Drogbar. We already saw them in the Cataclysm expansion, where they were slaves to the mad dragon Neltharion. Therefore, it is not surprising to meet them again, in the Neltharion laboratory, but this time our acquaintance will not be limited to observation and sympathy. This time we will get to know them better, learn their history, traditions and… snail racing will return.
However, this time, we have the opportunity to take on a challenging snail that has proven difficult to train. The Drogbar will offer us the chance to learn how to train the snail, which can eventually become our mount. Snail mounts are initially slow, so we’ll need to teach it how to move quickly. Regarding the gameplay of the snail race, the development team is still deciding whether to allow you to bet on the races or participate directly. You can find out more about the race in our WoW Snail Racing Guide.
Regardless of the decision, the race will be slow-paced due to the inherent slowness of snails. However, the team is still exploring their options, and rest assured that there will be snail racing with enthusiastic Drogbar cheering on the snails as they make their way around the track.
Drogbar Faction Renown System
Unlike the Nifens, the Drogbars will not have their own Renow System. All rewards associated with this faction can be obtained by completing their weekly and daily quests. However, we know for sure that for their quests you can get pets, a snail mount, and other cosmetic items.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you enjoyed getting to know the new WoW factions better. Bookmark this guide as we will update it soon with the rewards you can get from each of the factions. Check out more patch 10.1 offers here!
