WoW Patch 11.1: Shaman Visual Overhaul Divides Fans, New Abilities Introduced
World of Warcraft Patch 11.1 brings a visual refresh to Shaman abilities, notably Lightning Bolt and Crash Lightning. While many classes receive updated visuals, Shamans have seen a more extensive overhaul, sparking mixed reactions among players.
The Undermined PTR currently showcases these changes. Beyond the new content, all classes undergo balance adjustments, with Hunters receiving a significant rework. Shamans, however, are the focus of many visual updates. Lightning Bolt, Crash Lightning, and Fire Nova boast complete visual overhauls; Frost Shock gains new visual effects (VFX) and sounds when paired with Ice Strike. Ghost Wolf now scales with character models and features increased transparency. The Glyph of Spirit Raptors now functions with the Flowing Spirits talent. Content creator Doffen's videos offer detailed comparisons of these updates.
Visual Updates in WoW Patch 11.1: A Selection
| 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 Crash Lightning and Fire Nova improvements, the Lightning Bolt animation receives criticism. Some lament the return to a projectile style reminiscent of WoW Classic, preferring the Cataclysm version's instantaneous connection between caster and target.
Overall, player reception is positive. The hope remains that Blizzard might introduce Glyphs allowing players to select preferred VFX, similar to the Shaman Ascendance forms in Patch 11.0.5.
Beyond visual updates, Patch 11.1 introduces new abilities: Primordial Storm (Shaman), Symbiotic Relationship (Druid), and Slicing Winds (Windwalker Monk). These additions, alongside the visual improvements, promise exciting gameplay changes expected around February 25th.
