Multimodal Reshaping L2 Learning: An Autoethnographic Pilot Study of AI-Voiced Quests in a World of Warcraft Private Server

Digital games, particularly Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs), offer immersive environments for extramural English learning. However, legacy titles like World of Warcraft often rely heavily on on-screen text, creating high cognitive load for ESL learners. This study presents an autoethnographic pilot exploring the pedagogical potential of a private server environment (based on version 1.12.1) modified with AI voiceover technology. Over an eight-week period, the researcher engaged in a self-directed learning program where quest texts were transformed into synchronized audiovisual input. The study utilizes screen-recording reviews to reinforce vocabulary acquisition. Findings suggest that reconfiguring the game environment to support multimodal input significantly aids comprehension and transforms the "grind" of gameplay into meaningful language practice. The successful deployment of this single-player testbed demonstrates the technical viability of maintaining a persistent, researcher-controlled server for future community-based collaborative learning.