How to Earn the Hopling Pet in WoW MoP Classic
In World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria Classic, collectible pets are a beloved part of the game, offering cosmetic rewards that showcase dedication, exploration, and mastery of unique achievements. One of the most charming companions available to players is the Hopling, a small, energetic pet tied to a dungeon-based achievement in Stormstout Brewery. While the pet itself is purely cosmetic, earning it is a memorable experience that blends dungeon knowledge, timing, and a bit of patience.
This guide explains exactly how to earn the Hopling pet in WoW MoP Classic, walking you through the achievement requirements, preparation tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
What Is the Hopling Pet
The Hopling is an adorable companion pet rewarded for completing the achievement "Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey." This achievement takes place inside the Stormstout Brewery dungeon, one of the earliest instances introduced in Mists of Pandaria. The pet itself has no combat advantage, but like many collectibles in WoW, it serves as a badge of accomplishment and a fun addition to any pet collection.
Understanding Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey
The achievement Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey revolves around collecting 30 Golden Hoplings inside Stormstout Brewery. These Golden Hoplings are normally invisible and only become visible when you are under the effect of a special buff.
The achievement can be completed in a Dungeon Finder instance, meaning you do not need to manually form a group. However, coordination and timing are important, especially if you are queuing solo with random players.
Where to Get the Required Buff
Inside Stormstout Brewery, you will find Auntie Stormstout standing just inside the dungeon near the entrance. She sells an item called Ling-Ting's Favorite Tea. Drinking this tea grants you the buff Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey for 5 minutes.
This buff allows you to see and interact with Golden Hoplings scattered throughout the dungeon. Without it, the achievement is impossible to complete.
While it is technically possible to finish the achievement using only one or two teas, it is strongly recommended that you purchase at least three to be safe. Having extra tea ensures you don't run out of time and need to restart the dungeon, which can cost time and efficiency.
Best Strategy for Completing the Achievement
If you are running with friends or a coordinated group, you can collect Golden Hoplings as you clear the dungeon normally. However, if you are playing solo via Dungeon Finder, a safer strategy is recommended.
The most reliable method is to clear the entire instance first, defeating all bosses and trash mobs. Once the dungeon is fully cleared, remain inside instead of leaving immediately. At this point, you can focus entirely on collecting Golden Hoplings without worrying about combat, group pressure, or accidental wipes.
After the dungeon is clear, drink Ling-Ting's Favorite Tea and begin searching the instance for Golden Hoplings. They appear throughout the dungeon, often near walls, corners, and environmental objects. Because you are no longer in combat, you can move freely and efficiently, making the process much smoother.
Collecting the Golden Hoplings
With the buff active, you will be able to see Golden Hoplings shimmering around the dungeon. Interact with them to collect progress toward the achievement. You must collect all 30 to complete Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey.
Be mindful of the 5-minute timer on the buff. If it expires before you collect all 30, simply drink another tea and continue. This is why purchasing multiple teas in advance is highly recommended.
Patience is key here. Missing a few Hoplings can force you to backtrack, so take your time and thoroughly search each area.
Completing the Achievement and Receiving the Pet
Once you have collected all 30 Golden Hoplings, the achievement will immediately complete. You do not receive the pet instantly in your inventory. Instead, your Hopling pet will be mailed to you shortly afterward.
Check your mailbox, claim the pet, and add it to your collection. From that point on, you can summon the Hopling anytime to accompany you on your adventures across Pandaria and beyond.
Why This Achievement Is Worth Doing
While the Hopling pet does not directly impact combat or gold generation, completing achievements like this contributes to overall account progression and enjoyment. Efficient dungeon runs also help players avoid wasted time, time that could otherwise be spent farming mounts, materials, or WoW MoP Classic Gold through more profitable activities.
Additionally, Stormstout Brewery is a dungeon you may already be running for experience, quests, or reputation, making this achievement easy to integrate into your normal gameplay.
Final Thoughts
Earning the Hopling pet in WoW MoP Classic is a fun and accessible goal for players of all experience levels. By understanding how Ling-Ting's Herbal Journey works, preparing with enough Ling-Ting's Favorite Tea, and using the strategy of clearing the dungeon first, you can complete the achievement efficiently and stress-free.
Whether you're a collector, an achievement hunter, or simply someone who enjoys charming companions, the Hopling is a delightful reward, and a reminder that even small moments in WoW can be memorable when approached the right way.
MMOexp WoW MoP Classic Team