Playstyle
The Druid is Azeroth's shapeshifter and the only class with four specializations. Depending on the situation, it becomes a bear, a cat or a moonkin, or stays in its normal form to heal. Travel forms for land, water and air make getting around very convenient.
The Druid brings lots of group utility: Rebirth brings an ally back in combat, Innervate helps healers with Mana, and Stampeding Roar speeds up the whole group for a short time.
Background and lore
Druids guard the balance of nature. The first mortal druid was the night elf Malfurion Stormrage, trained by the demigod Cenarius. Druids walk the Emerald Dream, a primal version of Azeroth, and gather at Moonglade, home of the Cenarion Circle. Tauren, trolls and worgen have their own druidic traditions too. No other class changes so visibly: bear, cat, moonkin, tree, seal, bird.
Specializations
Balance
Balance fights as a moonkin from range and switches between solar and lunar magic. You build Astral Power and then make the stars rain down. Strong against groups and with a cosmic look all its own.
Signature abilities: Starsurge, Starfall, Celestial Alignment
Feral
Feral prowls as a cat, tears wounds and makes enemies bleed. You manage energy, combo points and several bleeds at once. Many community lists call Feral one of the hardest specs, but fans find it extremely rewarding.
Signature abilities: Shred, Rip, Ferocious Bite
Guardian
Guardian tanks in bear form with lots of armor, huge health and self-healing. The playstyle is cozy and sturdy. Solo the bear is a very safe choice, and as a tank it is considered easy to learn.
Signature abilities: Mangle, Ironfur, Frenzied Regeneration
Restoration
Restoration heals mostly with effects over time. You spread Rejuvenations ahead of time and let your healing work before the damage arrives. That takes practice and awareness, but it is fun if you like planning ahead.
Signature abilities: Rejuvenation, Lifebloom, Wild Growth, Tranquility
Who is the Druid for?
A good fit if you …
- don't want to commit to one role or fighting style,
- want melee and ranged in a single class,
- love nature, animals and shapeshifting.
Not ideal if you …
- want a lean class that is quick to learn, since four specs mean a lot to know,
- want to show off weapons and armor sets, as you see little of them in animal form.
Strengths and weaknesses
No other class covers as many roles and playstyles as the Druid. If you don't like leveling alts, it is ideal: one character for everything. The downside is the learning curve, as mastering every form takes time.
Also check out our guides to tank classes and healer classes, or send the Druid straight into the arena.
Images: © Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Source: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
