New Potion Mutes Niffen Noises in World of Warcraft

A recent build of World of Warcraft’s Public Test Realm introduced a new item that eliminates a bothersome feature of the Niffen race in Patch 10.1, Embers of Neltharion.

This seemingly minor addition significantly improves the game’s accessibility.

The Niffen, a race of mole people inhabiting the Zaralek Cavern in Embers of Neltharion, possess poor eyesight and an exceptional sense of smell. As a result, many Niffen characters emit loud sniffing sounds, which can be irritating to players with misophonia.

To address this issue, World of Warcraft has introduced a consumable potion called the New Niffen No-Sniffin’ Tonic. When used, the tonic prevents players from hearing the sniffing sounds for a week.

Improving Accessibility for Misophonia

Misophonia, a relatively common chronic condition, causes certain sounds to trigger strong negative reactions. Everyday noises like chewing, yawning, or sniffing can induce a fight-or-flight response in those affected.

The New Niffen No-Sniffin’ Tonic is a valuable accessibility tool, particularly if it also works for other in-game sniffs, such as the Worgen race’s occasional idle animation.

A Welcome Addition to Embers of Neltharion

When Embers of Neltharion goes live on May 2, many World of Warcraft players will appreciate the New Niffen No-Sniffin’ Tonic. The Niffen is a new Renown faction in Dragonflight, requiring extensive interaction to earn cosmetic and progression rewards and complete the Patch 10.1 campaign.

Players with misophonia can now pursue these rewards without causing undue stress.

In 10.1 there is a new item that removes the sniffing sound effect from the Niffen race for a week pic.twitter.com/CZLmdzqBCj
— MrGM (@MrGMYT) April 17, 2023

Continued Focus on Accessibility

World of Warcraft has a history of supporting in-game accessibility. Iconic dungeons like Grimrail Depot and Maw of Souls previously caused motion sickness in some players, leading to the creation of a special potion to disable certain animations.

The accessibility menu in Dragonflight continues to expand, with options for colorblind mode, mouseover casting, click cast binding, UI scaling, text-to-speech, and more.

The New Niffen No-Sniffin’ Tonic from the newest patch 10.1 is just another example of how World of Warcraft is committed to making Azeroth more accessible to all players.