Hey,
I’d like to request some much-needed changes to the Warlock class. After playing it in SoD, I feel like I’ve handicapped myself. The class struggles in multiple areas and falls short in both tanking and DPS compared to other options.
1. Tanking Issues
When compared to Shamans, Warlocks have almost nothing going for them. Shamans not only have infinite AoE potential but also superior burst damage and overall threat generation. There’s no situation in the game where I can confidently say a Warlock performs better than a Shaman. On top of that, Shamans are tankier and provide superior group utility through their totems.
It’s ridiculous that Warlocks don’t have a single niche where they can outperform other tanks.
2. DPS Issues
Single Target DPS
I have no complaints about single-target damage in longer fights. However, in dungeons or short encounters, Warlocks struggle immensely. The class relies heavily on DoTs—especially with the T3 set bonuses being entirely dependent on DoT damage. This means if mobs die in 20 seconds or less, Warlocks become completely useless, doing less damage than a fresh level 60 character.
AoE Issues
AoE is another massive issue. The only viable AoE spell we have is Shadow Bolt Volley, which, while decent, is limited to five targets and has a 2.5-second cast time. If a mob dies while you’re casting, you’ve essentially wasted two seconds doing nothing.
The other AoE option, Rain of Fire, is even worse—it deals around 300 damage per enemy, which is effectively the same as going AFK. A level 50 Mage or Shaman in leveling gear will easily out-DPS a Warlock casting Rain of Fire, making it a complete waste of time. There is a rune that removes its channeling requirement, but in exchange, you lose 10% critical strike chance, making it still completely useless.
Potential Fix:
- Make Rain of Fire instant-cast, non-channeled, and deal 100% more damage (or always crit).
- Apply a DoT effect to make it more impactful in AoE scenarios.
Alternatively, Warlocks could really use a spell like Seed of Corruption or another way to apply DoTs in an AoE manner to remain competitive in group content.
Final Thoughts
Right now, Warlocks are at a severe disadvantage in both tanking and DPS roles. Without meaningful changes, the class will continue to feel frustratingly underpowered in SoD.
Would really appreciate some adjustments to make Warlocks more viable!
Thanks.