Playstyle
The Paladin is a holy knight in plate who wields the Light as a weapon. It builds Holy Power, a resource with only a few charges, and spends it on strong attacks, heals or protective effects.
Few classes have this many panic buttons: Divine Shield makes you briefly immune, Lay on Hands fully heals a target, and Blessing of Protection or Blessing of Freedom save your teammates. That makes the Paladin extremely forgiving.
Background and lore
Azeroth's first paladins belonged to the Order of the Silver Hand, founded by Uther the Lightbringer after the Second War. His most famous student was none other than Arthas Menethil, who later became the Lich King. Today many races draw on the Light: draenei Vindicators, blood elf Blood Knights and tauren Sunwalkers, who draw their power from the sun. Their resource is Holy Power, which they build up and spend on strong abilities.
Specializations
Holy
Holy is the healer who likes to stand on the front line. With Beacon of Light, part of your healing automatically goes to a second target, usually the tank. Many heals are direct and instant, which feels good in hectic moments. Beginner guides often recommend Holy Paladin as an approachable healer.
Signature abilities: Holy Shock, Beacon of Light
Protection
Protection is the knight in shining armor who throws a shield at enemies and heals you and your group with the Light. Lots of emergency buttons make the Protection Paladin very forgiving. Many lists name it one of the easiest tanks to start with.
Signature abilities: Avenger's Shield, Guardian of Ancient Kings
Retribution
Retribution is the sword of the Light: a big two-handed weapon, golden wings and Holy damage that crashes down on enemies in waves. You build Holy Power and spend it on heavy strikes. Direct, easy to understand and very comfortable solo.
Signature abilities: Templar's Verdict, Wake of Ashes, Divine Storm
Who is the Paladin for?
A good fit if you …
- want to try all three roles without switching classes,
- play a lot of solo content and want a class that rarely dies,
- love the fantasy of a knight of the Light.
Not ideal if you …
- want to fight from range, since every Paladin spec stays close to the enemy,
- want a class with a companion.
Strengths and weaknesses
The Paladin is one of the most beginner-friendly classes in WoW: sturdy, with self-healing and plenty of safety nets. Its downside is short range and less mobility than classes like the Demon Hunter or Monk.
Torn between the Paladin and other classes? The class quiz helps, and the arena decides.
Images: © Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Source: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
