Shaman's Fate: Patch 11.1 Divides WoW Community
World of Warcraft Patch 11.1: A Visual Feast for Shamans (and More!)
WoW Patch 11.1 brings a visual overhaul to Shaman abilities, notably Lightning Bolt and Crash Lightning. While other classes receive updates, Shamans get significant attention, though the reception is mixed.
The patch, currently on the Public Test Realm (PTR), offers a sneak peek at numerous changes. Beyond new zones and content, class balancing is prominent, including a Hunter class rework. Many classes boast new ability visuals, but Shamans take center stage. Lightning Bolt, Crash Lightning, and Fire Nova receive complete visual makeovers; Frost Shock gets new VFX and sounds when paired with Ice Strike. Ghost Wolf now scales with character models and is more transparent; the Glyph of Spirit Raptors now functions with Flowing Spirits. WoW content creator Doffen provides detailed visual comparisons in videos.
Visual Updates in WoW Patch 11.1: A Selection
| Class (Specialization) | Ability | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Death Knight | Raise Ghoul/Apocalypse | New visual, instantaneous summon |
| Death Knight (Frost) | Frost Strike | New animation for Worgen |
| Death Knight (Unholy) | Defile | New visual |
| Death Knight (Unholy) | Army of the Damned | New spell effects for Magus of the Dead |
| Death Knight (Rider of the Apocalypse) | Darion Mograine's Death and Decay | New visual |
| Priest (Discipline) | Evangelism | New visual |
| Shaman | Ghost Wolf | Scales with character model, more transparent |
| Shaman | Lightning Bolt | New casting and projectile effects |
| Shaman (Enhancement) | Crash Lightning | New visual |
| Shaman (Enhancement) | Fire Nova | New visual on targets |
| Shaman (Enhancement) | Frost Shock | New visual and sounds with Ice Strike |
| Hunter | Explosive Shot | Faster projectile |
| Hunter (Beastmaster) | Dire Beast | New visual, leaps at target |
| Hunter (Marksman) | Intimidation | New visual (no pet) |
| Hunter (Sentinel) | Lunar Storm | New visual |
| Warrior | Enrage | New visual |
| Warrior | Spell Reflect | New visual |
While generally well-received, the Lightning Bolt update sparks debate. Many appreciate the channeling improvement, but some lament the return to a projectile style reminiscent of WoW Classic, preferring the Cataclysm's instantaneous bolt.
Overall, the visual updates are largely positive. Future Glyphs allowing players to choose preferred VFX, similar to the Shaman Ascendance forms in 11.0.5, are hoped for.
Beyond visual enhancements, Patch 11.1 introduces new abilities: Primordial Storm (Shaman), Symbiotic Relationship (Druid), and Slicing Winds (Windwalker Monk). These additions, alongside visual improvements, promise exciting gameplay in the upcoming update, anticipated around February 25th.
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