World of Warcraft Patch 11.1: A Visual Feast for Shamans, But Some Remain Unsatisfied
WoW Patch 11.1 brings a visual refresh to Shaman abilities, notably Lightning Bolt and Crash Lightning. While many classes receive visual updates, Shamans get a more extensive overhaul, though opinions on the changes are divided.
The patch, currently on the Public Test Realm (PTR), offers a sneak peek at upcoming content, including a Hunter class rework and visual effects (VFX) improvements across various classes. Shamans are particularly highlighted, with significant changes to Lightning Bolt, Crash Lightning, Fire Nova, and Frost Shock (the latter receiving new VFX and sounds when paired with Ice Strike). Ghost Wolf now scales with character models and boasts increased transparency, and the Glyph of Spirit Raptors now functions with the Flowing Spirits talent. Content creator Doffen's videos provide detailed comparisons of these updates.
Visual Updates in WoW Patch 11.1: A Summary
| 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 many appreciate the improved Crash Lightning and Fire Nova, the Lightning Bolt animation receives mixed reactions. The channeling effect is praised, but the return to a projectile visual reminiscent of WoW Classic, instead of the Cataclysm's instantaneous bolt, disappoints some.
Overall, player reception is positive, with hopes that Blizzard might introduce glyphs allowing players to choose between VFX options, similar to the Shaman Ascendance forms in Patch 11.0.5.
Beyond visual enhancements, Patch 11.1 introduces new abilities: Primordial Storm (Shamans), Symbiotic Relationship (Druids), and Slicing Winds (Windwalker Monks). These additions, alongside the visual updates, promise a significant gameplay refresh, expected around February 25th.
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