How to fix WoW ‘error retrieving character list’

Retrieving character list errors have been a long-standing issue in World of Warcraft's history. Often the error occurs at random and without warning. Anyone who has played WoW for an extensive amount of time probably has dealt with it before. However, if you haven't or just can't remember how to fix this issue, then I've got the solution right here for you.

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Solutions for the 'error retrieving character list' error in WoW

Rather than stating the obvious, here are the solutions most likely to fix your World of Warcraft 'error retrieving character list' issue:

• Delete the Cache Folder - Open your WoW game folder on your computer and navigate to the Cache folder within.
  • Open it up, and delete everything inside of it.
  • After completing this, open the Battle.net Launcher and launch WoW.
    • Upon attempting to launch, or right as your open the launcher, WoW will attempt to rebuild the Cache folder. Most often, this will fix the issue.
• Disable all Add-Ons - Playing WoW without add-ons can really lessen the experience, in my opinion, but sometimes it is an add-on that is causing this issue.
  • To determine if this is the case, disable all your add-ons and try and launch the game. If the game launches, and you're able to get your character list, you now know that an add-on is the cause.
  • If this solution worked and your character list reappears, working out which add-on caused the issue can be a dragon, especially if you are multiple ones.
    • I suggest enabling a few add-ons and launching the game. If it works, enable a few more, and rinse and repeat until you find the few mods it could be.
• Restart your Computer - PC gaming has so many variables working in tandem that sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes to fix an error. So, try and restart your comp and load up World of Warcraft afterward. If everything works as intended, well, troubleshooting over.

As mentioned, the 'error retrieving character list' error is very common in WoW, so don't fret if you see it come up. The solutions above should fix it, and then you can get back to farming Mythic Plus like the rest of us. Oh, goody.

Did these solutions work and fix your issue? Are you finding our guides and information helpful? If so, check out WoW Treasure Goblin Locations & Spawn Times and keep a close eye on Pro Game Guides.