As the launch of World of Warcraft’s (WoW) new Season of Discovery expansion inches closer, many hunters are left feeling uneasy about their specs due to the potential for excessive nerfs. With the new expansion, Blizzard Entertainment has promised to make numerous changes to the game, some of which may not be as favorable for hunters as others. From buffs to abilities, to changes to the way traps work, hunters are feeling the heat of the nerf torch.
Among the changes that hunters need to worry about are the modifications to their traps. The Traps tab will be completely removed from the game and some important skills, Cobra Shot and Classic Traps, will no longer be available. While this will make hunters much less viable in group content, Blizzard has promised that there will be new abilities in the new expansion to help make up the difference.
Along with changes to traps, hunters are being asked to make significant changes to their gearing, as Blizzard is implementing a new “gear slot” system. This system allows players to choose a specialization-specific item that will give them a stronger boost than their standard gear set. For hunters, this will mean sacrificing some of their normal gear pieces for the specialized item, leaving them more vulnerable in some areas.
The changes to hunter abilities and gear have been met with mixed reactions. On one hand, some hunters are excited about the potential for new strategies and tactics. On the other hand, there are some who are fearful that their class will be too nerfed for play. Unfortunately, as with any change in the game, the only way to find out the real impact is to experience the changes in practice.
Ultimately, it’s hard to gauge the true effect of the changes until the expansion launches. Until then, hunters are left to puzzle out what will and won’t be nerfed. Those who are hopeful are banking on Blizzard’s claim that the changes will result in a “More Robust and Enjoyable Gameplay Experience”.