Playstyle
The Shaman speaks with the elements: earth, fire, water and air fight at its side. In mail armor it stands between caster and fighter, and with three completely different specs it is one of the most versatile classes in the game.
Its trademark is totems, placed on the ground to empower allies or hinder enemies. Then there is Bloodlust or Heroism, a powerful group buff for the decisive moment. And if everything goes wrong, the Shaman can bring itself back with Reincarnation.
Background and lore
Shamans speak with the elements: earth, fire, water and air. They ask the spirits for help rather than commanding them. The most famous shaman is Thrall, who led the Horde to Kalimdor and later helped the Earthen Ring hold the world together. Shamans place totems that help their allies, and they wear mail armor.
Specializations
Elemental
Elemental hurls lightning and lava from range. Chain Lightning and Earthquake make the shaman strong against groups, and when a Lava Burst crits, it hits hard. Easy to understand, with some spells that need you to stand still briefly.
Signature abilities: Lava Burst, Stormkeeper
Enhancement
Enhancement is a storm in melee: two weapons, elemental magic in every strike and spirit wolves at your side. Many effects interlock, which is why many lists rank Enhancement among the most demanding specs. When it flows, though, it feels fantastic.
Signature abilities: Lava Lash, Feral Spirit
Restoration
Restoration heals with waves, rain and totems. The shaman shines when the group stands close together. One totem can even equalize the group's health and save allies that way.
Signature abilities: Riptide, Healing Tide Totem, Spirit Link Totem
Who is the Shaman for?
A good fit if you …
- want to choose between ranged, melee and healing,
- like supporting your group with buffs and utility,
- love the nature-bound fantasy of the elements.
Not ideal if you …
- want to tank, since the Shaman has no tank spec,
- want a very simple rotation, as totems and priorities take time to learn.
Strengths and weaknesses
The Shaman brings a lot that groups love: Bloodlust, interrupts and useful totems. Thanks to self-healing and Reincarnation, it also handles solo play well. Mastering it takes some patience, and the reward is one of the most flexible classes in the game.
Curious how the Shaman fares against the others? Send it into the arena or take the class quiz.
Images: © Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Source: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
