Playstyle
The Monk is a martial arts master who fights with fists, feet and the energy of Chi. In leather armor it is nimble and fast: with Roll and Transcendence it repositions in a flash, and few classes get to an enemy or away from one this easily.
Alongside Energy or Mana, the Monk uses Chi as a resource for its strongest techniques. Well-known abilities include Touch of Death, which can finish off weakened enemies instantly, and Paralysis for crowd control.
Background and lore
Monks come from Pandaria, the continent added with Mists of Pandaria. They fight with fists, staves and inner strength, called Chi. Pandaria's four August Celestials stand for their paths: Xuen the tiger, Chi-Ji the crane, Niuzao the ox and Yu'lon the serpent. The best known monk is the brewmaster Chen Stormstout, who already travelled the world in Warcraft III.
Specializations
Brewmaster
Brewmaster is an unusual tank: instead of fully blocking damage, it spreads damage out over time with Stagger and purifies it with brews. And it staggers drunkenly through attacks. Lots of activity and many buttons, but a unique fantasy devoted to Niuzao.
Signature abilities: Keg Smash, Purifying Brew
Mistweaver
Mistweaver heals with mists and can join the fight in melee to heal allies through strikes. You decide whether you heal classically from range or jump into the fray. The serpent Yu'lon guides this path.
Signature abilities: Renewing Mist, Vivify, Revival
Windwalker
Windwalker is the kung fu fighter who chains kicks and punches and hits whole groups with spinning attacks. You should avoid repeating the same ability back to back, which keeps you on your toes. Fast, mobile and a treat for anyone who loves martial arts.
Signature abilities: Rising Sun Kick, Tiger Palm
Who is the Monk for?
A good fit if you …
- love mobility and fluid movement,
- want all three roles in one class,
- are drawn to the Pandaren fantasy of martial arts and brewing.
Not ideal if you …
- want a very simple class to start with,
- want to fight from range.
Strengths and weaknesses
The Monk is one of the most mobile classes and can play every role. Its specs have their own, sometimes unusual mechanics, such as the Brewmaster's Stagger, which makes it a better fit for players with some experience.
In our picker the Monk fights with Fists of Fury and Fortifying Brew. Try it in the arena or find out in the class quiz whether it suits you.
Images: © Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Source: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
