World of Warcraft Players are Torn on One Patch 11.1 Shaman Feature

Summary

• Shaman abilities like Lightning Bolt and Crash Lightning receive significant visual updates in World of Warcraft Patch 11.1.
• Shamans receive more visual updates than many other classes, but the changes aren't universally praised by fans.
• New skills, including Primordial Storm for Shamans and Symbiotic Relationship for Druids, debut in WoW Patch 11.1.

World of Warcraft Patch 11.1 brings a substantial visual refresh for Shamans, significantly altering the appearance of Lightning Bolt, Crash Lightning, and other abilities. While many classes gain new or updated ability visuals in this patch, Shamans receive a more extensive overhaul. However, not all players are enthusiastic about the new particle effects.

Currently available on the Public Test Realm (PTR), WoW Patch 11.1, codenamed "Undermined," offers players a sneak peek at upcoming content. In addition to a new zone, instances, and various activities and rewards, the patch includes balance adjustments for all classes, notably a significant Hunter class rework.

Many classes also receive updated visual effects for their abilities, with Shamans receiving the most extensive changes. Lightning Bolt, Crash Lightning, and Fire Nova boast complete visual overhauls, while Frost Shock features new visual effects (VFX) and sounds when used with Ice Strike. Furthermore, Ghost Wolf now scales with character models and is more transparent, and the Glyph of Spirit Raptors now functions with the Flowing Spirits talent. WoW content creator Doffen created helpful videos showcasing these and other visual updates.

Visual Updates in World of Warcraft Patch 11.1

Class (Specialization)AbilityChangeDeath KnightRaise Ghoul/ApocalypseNew visual, instantaneous summonDeath Knight (Frost)Frost StrikeNew animation for WorgenDeath Knight (Unholy)DefileNew visualDeath Knight (Unholy)Army of the DamnedNew spell effects for Magus of the DeadDeath Knight (Rider of the Apocalypse)Darion Mograine's Death and DecayNew visualPriest (Discipline)EvangelismNew visualShamanGhost WolfScales with character model, more transparentShamanLightning BoltNew casting and projectile effectsShaman (Enhancement)Crash LightningNew visualShaman (Enhancement)Fire NovaNew visual on targetsShaman (Enhancement)Frost ShockNew visual and sounds when used with Ice StrikeHunterExplosive ShotFaster projectileHunter (Beastmaster)Dire BeastNew visual, now leaps at targetHunter (Marksman)IntimidationNew visual to account for no petHunter (Survival)Lunar StormNew visualWarriorEnrageNew visualWarriorSpell ReflectNew visual

However, the Shaman VFX overhaul in Patch 11.1 isn't without its critics. While most players appreciate the updates to Crash Lightning, Fire Nova, and other abilities, some find the Lightning Bolt animation lacking. Although the channeling effect is improved, many lament Blizzard's return to the projectile lightning ball visual from World of Warcraft Classic, preferring the instantaneous bolt connecting caster and target introduced in Cataclysm.

Overall, player reception to the other visual updates in Patch 11.1 is positive. Many hope Blizzard will eventually introduce new Glyphs allowing players to use some of the more popular original VFX, similar to the Shaman Ascendance forms added in WoW Patch 11.0.5.

Beyond the visual updates, Patch 11.1 introduces several new abilities. These include Primordial Storm for Shamans, Symbiotic Relationship for Druids, and Slicing Winds—the first Empowered spell outside of the Evoker class, Earthen racial abilities, or Plunderstorm—for Windwalker Monks. Players can anticipate experimenting with these new skills and the improved visuals of existing abilities when the patch launches, likely around February 25th.