Class homogenization has been an issue in the latest World of Warcraft expansions.
Can Legion fix the problem?
Last month,we learned aboutLegion, the nextWorld of Warcraftexpansion.
A new expansion undeniably provides an opportunity for major changes to the game.
One of the new planned features forLegionisthe artifact weapon system.
A system like this changesWoWmajorly by giving players more options to customize their gameplay.
Weapons are a huge part of the gearing process.
Players tend to identify with their weapons more than any other throw in of equipment.
Having weapons that are uniquely customizable help players feel pride in their chosen specs.
This was sometimes ideal for off-tanking and solo situations.
With the new system, tanks have very few opportunities to do something similar.
This limits some specs significantly.
Weve also seen a great deal of homogenization between class abilities.
All tanks now play around active mitigation and instant threat-gaining abilities instead of having various mitigation and threat/DPS-based strengths.
Most raid-wide class buffs were either taken away or made baseline for multiple classes/specs.
When the pruning happened, some specs also started playing extremely similar to others.
Hunters may be the best example.
The specs just arent different enough from each other to warrant getting attached to any of them.
While there are players on both sides of the Did Blizzard go too far?
debate, there has been a great deal of evidence that Blizzard has finally listened to fan feedback.
TheLegionreveals point toward more class and spec individuality and less homogenization.
The artifact weapon system and its talent tree seem like an attempt to bring secondary customization back toWoW.
PvP players will be able to pick talents that fit PvP more as opposed to PvE.
There are two major spec changes coming withLegion.
Its possible that other classes will have similar adjustments made.
Would a mage tank be cool?
When every class can do everything, theres not much of a reason to identify with a specific one.
We feel pride in our roles and how well we can effectively tank, DPS, or heal.
We feel pride in our class abilities and how well we control them.
Thats why features like the transmogrification system are so important.
A unique outfit and appearance helps me feel like me and not some other dude or dudette.
Class identity should be embraced.
Unique class features, individual talent options, and customization options help us identify with our classes more.
Laura Hardgrave is a staff writer.
