World of Warcraft patch 11.0.5 – New Shaman Ascendance

World of Warcraft players are in for a significant change with Patch 11.0.5. This update marks a long-awaited update to the Shaman Ascendance forms. This overhaul, part of the larger celebration for the game’s 20th anniversary, introduces refreshed visuals that will alter the appearance of Shaman abilities for the first time in over a decade.

Shamans are a very essential class in World of Warcraft. Acting as moderators or, their main job can fall into both, healer, and damage. With access to their talents, they specialize in enhancing their heal, increasing their melee damage, or use specific elemental spell for an overall experience. This versatile class is loved by many players, and Shaman are getting an overhaul in this update.

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New Shaman ascendance forms

Six new Ascendance forms for Shamans are featured in Patch 11.0.5. The update includes the Fire for Elemental Shamans, Water for Restoration Shamans, and Air for Enhancement Shamans. Each form comes with a distinct versions available for both Body Type 1 and 2 characters. This significant change aims to modernize the Ascendance visuals, which have been largely unchanged since their introduction during Mists of Pandaria.

The previous Shaman Ascendance forms were inspired by enemies from Cataclysm. The previous forms were notably outdated, especially when compared to the updated models of other playable races in World of Warcraft. The new designs are expected to bring the Shaman class’s visuals in line with the game’s current art direction.

Player reactions to the update

The response to the new Shaman Ascendance forms has been mixed among the players. Many have welcomed the updated designs, praising them for their improved quality and modern aesthetics. The new forms retain the general silhouette of their predecessors while incorporating elements that align with the current art style of World of Warcraft.

Unfortunately on the other hand, some players have expressed disappointment. Criticisms have been directed at the removal of the iconic cowls that were a hallmark of the original Shaman forms. Additionally, there are players who feel that the updated designs lack the distinctiveness of the old models. Some hoped for more innovative designs, such as Shamans summoning elemental spirits similar to Dathea, Ascended from the Vault of the Incarnates raid.

Future of Shamans

There is speculation that Blizzard may address these concerns in future updates. Potential solutions include the introduction of Glyphs that would allow players to switch between the old and new Ascendance forms. Another possibility is offering customization options for Shaman appearances, akin to the options available for Druids and Warlocks at the barber shop.

In summary, World of Warcraft’s Patch 11.0.5 is set to bring significant visual changes to Shaman Ascendance forms, marking the first update of its kind in over 12 years. While many players are excited about the improved graphics, others hope for additional adjustments to address their concerns.