In Cataclysm, we will be getting 5 more levels, 5 more talent points, but NOT increased talent trees, instead we will be improving our characters through the Path of the Titans. A new system that will give every class the same options. We will be choosing a path to follow and unlock new ‘talents’ by doing certain quests, defeating certain encounters and through other objectives. The paths will be modeled after the old Titans, creators of Azeroth and the Azerothian races.
Altho this system gives me some concerns about the flexibility, and I’m afraid that it will just lead to extra cookie-cutter specs, but nontheless I am still pretty excited about it.
Each titan cultivates specific interests that relate to particular elements or energy types — essentially, to some small aspect of creation over which the titan holds a measure of dominance. Some titans refer to the piece of creation upon which they focus as their “sphere of power”. My guess is that different Paths will be based on these elements and energy types, so there will be a Fire Path, Arcane Path, Ice Path, Shadow Path etc.. With this in mind I can only come to the conclusion that certain Paths will compliment certain specs better than others, resulting again in the concerns of cookie-cutter spec/path combinations.
So far there are 6 paths anounced, but what will their associated elements be?
Aman’Thul the High Father – Electricity
As leader of the titans, Aman’Thul is responsible for the creation of all worlds, including Azeroth. This path would probably be best for the following classes: Priest, Druid and Shaman focusing primarily on healing specs, but possibly other caster classes too and granting them more flexibility in melee situations. Maybe elemental shamans?
Eonar the Lifebinder – Nature
Consort of Aman’Thul, protector of life and nature. Another one primarily for the healing classes and specs focusing more on Nature spells, possibly best for Priests, Druids, Shamans, but also Hunters due to the nature theme.
Norgannon, the Dreamweaver – Arcane
Norgannon is master of the arcane magic, knowledge, secrets and mysteries. This one would be aimed at Mages, Warlocks, maybe moonkins and shadowpriests
Khaz’Goroth, the Shaper – Earth
This would be one for the melee classes, warrior, death knights, maybe rogues(?) or melee specced druids, or enhancement shamans
Aggramar, the Avenger – ???
Aggramar is in charge of combating the Burning Legion and eliminating its demonic taint, so I doubt this path will be for the warlocks, shadow priests and death knights. Instead, I think this one will also be aimed at melee classes.
Golganneth, the Thunderer – Air/Water
He is the embodiment of thunderstorms and lightning, storms and winds. My first thought was this would be a good candidate for Mages and Shamans, but judging from a series of pictures (see below) found on mmo-champion, this seems be aimed mostly at druids, and possibly other tanking classes.
I’m kinda hoping there will be more paths, and maybe even one for Sargeras, which could be aimed at Warlocks, Death Knights and Shadow Priests. All-in-all, this new system is looking to be another great addition to an already great game and I can’t wait to put my hands on this new system.
So, with what I wrote above which path would you choose?
Who knows, after next expansion your new shiny lvl85 epixx boots could be sponsored by Gucci, or Prada, or Versace or whatever other expensive lifestyle brand.
