Playstyle
The Warlock has embraced forbidden magic: it curses enemies, summons demons and hurls fel fire. Besides Mana, it gathers Soul Shards to cast its strongest spells.
A demonic servant is always at its side, from the Imp to the Voidwalker that holds enemies' attention. For the group, the Warlock brings unique tools: Healthstones for healing, a Soulstone that can bring an ally back in combat, a Ritual of Summoning to pull teammates in, and the Demonic Gateway for quick repositioning.
Background and lore
Warlocks use fel magic and shadow powers that other races fear. The first great warlocks were orcs of the Shadow Council under Gul'dan, who made a pact with the Burning Legion. Today knowledge of demons has spread among many races, often in secret. Warlocks gather Soul Shards to cast their strongest spells and always have a demonic servant at their side.
Specializations
Affliction
Affliction spreads curses and damage over time across many enemies and lets them slowly wither. You keep your effects up and then reap them with one big spell. Strong when several targets live long, and very calm to play.
Signature abilities: Agony, Unstable Affliction, Malefic Rapture
Demonology
Demonology is the pet fantasy at its purest. A Felguard fights by your side, imps pour out of the ground, Dreadstalkers charge in, and at the end a Tyrant arrives to empower them all. Lots of chaos on screen, but with a clear rhythm.
Signature abilities: Hand of Gul'dan, Call Dreadstalkers, Summon Demonic Tyrant
Destruction
Destruction is all about direct, heavy fire spells. You build Soul Shards and spend them on a Chaos Bolt that lands huge hits. Add Rain of Fire on groups and an Infernal falling from the sky. Easy to understand and very satisfying.
Signature abilities: Incinerate, Rain of Fire, Summon Infernal
Who is the Warlock for?
A good fit if you …
- are drawn to the dark fantasy of curses and demons,
- enjoy playing with companions,
- want to be a caster that can still take a beating.
Not ideal if you …
- want to tank or heal,
- need a lot of mobility, since many spells have a cast time.
Strengths and weaknesses
For a cloth class, the Warlock is surprisingly tough: Drain Life, Healthstones and a Voidwalker make solo play very comfortable. In exchange, it often stands still to cast and is vulnerable to fast enemies.
The Warlock also joins our arena with Chaos Bolt and Drain Life. Who wins?
Images: © Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Source: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
