but World of Warcraft is a bit intimidating for new players, just in terms of the scope and changing seasons.

Yup, can confirm. I left wow near the end of Burning Crusade and came back to it in the middle of Shadowlands. I was so confused. Plus, nobody talks anymore. Chat used to be lively, but now players seem inconvenienced and annoyed by strangers trying to start up a conversation.

I don’t recognize the game anymore and have no interest in continuing. I tried WoW classic when it came out and had a blast. Got through Northrend leveling and then left again.