Paladins in World of Warcraft are being significantly reworked. The next patch aims to help Retribution Paladins finally become really good.
With World of Warcraft Dragonflight, there were massive revisions of almost all existing classes. Although Blizzard has tried to maintain the popular playstyle for many classes, quite a bit has changed. This is mainly due to the “new, old” talent system, which is intended to provide more flexibility and options for change. However, not all classes have made this adjustment unscathed and are providing as much joy as before.
This led to some classes and specializations receiving massive buffs of up to 30% or even 40% in the first weeks. Other specializations simply do not feel rounded – like Retribution Paladins. That is exactly what is supposed to change soon.
What does Blizzard have planned for the Retribution Paladin in Patch 10.0.7?
The developers have identified several “pain points” with the Retribution Paladin, which will be addressed with a rework. The most important aspects of the renewal were presented in the official WoW forum:
Too many buttons: Paladins have quite a few abilities, and some of them feel unnecessary or simply too weak. The number of abilities is to be reduced, focusing instead on fewer, but clearly more enjoyable abilities.
Too many stackable modifiers: For Paladins to act efficiently, they currently require many stackable effects. This makes it confusing and often unintuitive as to when the right time is to use an ability. Additionally, it leads to core mechanics feeling poor and providing little benefit.
Here is where the biggest changes will likely occur. Core abilities should always feel “good” and fewer stackable effects will create a bit more order. Burst damage should be able to be used more strategically.
Too little survivability: Retribution Paladins are plate wearers who can also heal – and yet have one of the highest death rates in almost all types of content. This feels wrong and needs a revision. A series of passive bonuses and improvements to active abilities should achieve the desired results.
Too little movement: Paladins are one of the least mobile classes in the game, and there should be some improvement in this area. However, the developers emphasize that Paladins will not receive the mobility abilities of a rogue – there will only be small improvements in this area.
Improving utility: Currently, Retribution Paladins have to decide whether to improve their own performance or bring bonuses to the group. This leads to decisions that often feel wrong. Therefore, Blizzard wants to ensure that it is easier to choose a healthy mix of personal improvements and useful abilities for the group.
There is not yet a precise date for Patch 10.0.7, but it is expected to release at the end of March or early April.
Do you think the Retribution Paladin needs a rework? Or do you like the current design of this Paladin specialization?
