Hi devs,
First, thank you for your continued work on Shadow Priest. The changes significantly improve and refine our gameplay. The issue I would like to highlight that has remained, is the thematic incongruity created between our hero talent fantasy and our main cooldown choice.
Shadow’s hero talents beautifully explore our dual identity:
- Voidweaver embraces the cosmic void fantasy
- Archon delivers a dark archangel theme (as implied by the hero tree description and icon)
Yet the choice between Voidform and Dark Ascension creates dissonance:
- Voidweavers naturally prefer Dark Ascension’s 1min CD and direct damage playstyle - but thematically, angel wings don’t belong on a void conduit ( especially when they keep you grounded instead of levitating)
- Archons benefit from Voidform’s 2min cadence, but are prevented from reaching their thematic potential.
Understanding the Design Intent
I recognize Dark Ascension’s value as the more approachable option - removing Void Bolt’s hectic requirement at high Haste levels IS smart for accessibility. This intention makes perfect gameplay SENSE and should remain.
Suggested Direction
What if we could:
-
Decouple visuals from mechanics
- Baseline Voidform becomes a neutral “empowered state”
- Hero talents provide the fantasy visuals:
• Voidweaver = void effects
• Archon = wings + levitation ( A shadowy version of Holy’s Apotheosis)
-
Customize cooldown functionality
Through post-Voidform talent choices, for example:- Duration/CD: 2min (with the extension mechanic) vs 1min (with insanity generation)
- Damage profile: Void Bolt vs non-periodic damage buff
This would maintain Dark Ascension’s accessibility (no forced Void Bolt) while letting players:
- Keep their chosen fantasy intact visually
- Select the cooldown rhythm that fits their playstyle
- Not feel penalized for thematic choices
Keep up the good work, I am excited of the spec’s direction and looking forward to future changes!