Getting started in World of Warcraft can be difficult. We at MeinMMO will tell you which class is perfect for taking your first steps in Azeroth.
With its 13 classes and 39 specializations, World of Warcraft offers a pretty wide range of options for how to immerse yourself in Azeroth. But which class should you choose as a newbie?
We’ll introduce you to three classes that are perfect for newcomers to World of Warcraft, so that you can get started easily in 2024.
Update: The article was updated on January 20, 2024. Originally the Demon Hunter was recommended here, but after a rework of the class he was replaced by the Warlock.
Cortyn has been playing World of Warcraft for over 19 years and has spent so many hours in Azeroth that you might not want to know the exact number. Articles have already been written for MeinMMO for 11 years.
Switching between different classes over time and playing in both the Horde and Alliance, Cortyn has extensive insight into the whole game.
Just don’t argue with Cortyn about the lore. This is going wrong.
Paladin – The all-round talent
Who is the Paladin suitable for? The Paladin is suitable for undecided people who don’t yet know whether they want to heal, tank or deal damage in the endgame – because the Paladin can do all of them. With his plate armor and numerous defensive skills, he is a tenacious fighter who can also dish out some really nasty punches in close combat.
What can paladins do? Paladins in World of Warcraft basically have three different alignments in which they can specialize. The Paladin can take on all three roles necessary for a successful party. One of his most well-known abilities is the God Shield, which can make him immune to all damage for a few seconds.
Which races can become a paladin? Only a few races can become a paladin in World of Warcraft. There are significantly more in the Alliance than in the Horde.
You should play Paladin if: You want to play a versatile class that can fulfill basically any role. Paladins are popular with other players because of their versatility, as they can fill any spot in a group and also have really strong defensive skills for all allies.
Recommended specialization: When it comes to leveling up, it’s worth playing in the “Retaliation” specialization, as this means you can overcome most challenges alone and deal high damage. For dungeons, you can of course switch to Holy or Protection if you want to fill other roles in the group.
Hunter – Flexible killing machine
Who is the hunter suitable for? Hunters are the ultimate solo class in World of Warcraft. With a wild animal as a companion, hunters can tackle almost any quest single-handedly and are also welcome in groups thanks to various traps, high damage and various buffs. There is also an additional collecting aspect – because there are many rare and great animals in WoW that can be tamed by the hunter.
What can hunters do? Hunters are pure damage classes in all their specializations and therefore ensure that enemies die quickly in a group. At the same time, they can rely on an animal companion who acts as a tank in solo play and thus attracts a threat from enemies. There are optionally several control effects to slow down enemies or render them completely harmless.
Which peoples can become hunters? When it comes to hunters, you have a huge selection of possible races. Because all playable species on Azeroth can become hunters – with the exception of the Dracthyr.
You should play Hunter if: You want a class that can handle pretty much any challenge single-handedly. Animal collectors also get their money’s worth here. But be careful: Hunters have had a negative reputation for 19 years that many of them are bad players – but maybe you can convince everyone otherwise?
Recommended specialization: The “Beast Mastery” specialization is worth it for leveling up. Not only do you have access to more interesting companions, but they also take on many tasks in battle, such as refueling. Ultimately, all 3 specializations are suitable for leveling and you can choose freely.
Warlock – Versatile spellcaster with great utility
Who is the Warlock suitable for? Warlocks are the perfect class for anyone who actually wants to play a magician, but feels too frail to do so. Although the Warlock wears cloth, he is extremely resilient and can handle many tough battles even on his own. This is also due to his powerful demons, which he can even summon again in battle if he dies.
What can warlocks do? Warlocks are responsible for damage in all specializations. In the vast majority of cases, they are accompanied by a specialized demon who can fulfill different roles, such as a tank. In addition, warlocks have useful effects for the entire group. Health stones count as an additional healing potion and the warlock can use incantations to call his group members directly to him and thus reduce travel distances. A soul gem can save a fellow player from death or even be used as a resurrection in battle.
Which races can become sorcerers? To become a warlock, all you have to do as a magician is stray a little or open yourself up to the dark forces – every race has the potential for this, with the exception of the Dracthyr.
You should play Warlock if: Warlocks are the perfect compromise if you want to play a spellcaster who can still take a beating. You are a welcome member in groups, thanks to useful skills for your fellow players. If you prefer a generally dark look, want to rain fire from the sky and throw demons around you, the sorcerer is the perfect choice.
Recommended specialization: For relaxed leveling with just a few skills, the Destruction Warlock is worth it. If you are traveling alone, summon your Voidwalker to bind enemies to you. This way you can destroy them from a safe distance with strong spells before they even pose a threat to you.
Play what you like: Ultimately, of course, these are just recommendations. Many classes in World of Warcraft play extremely differently from specialization to specialization, so you should try something out at the beginning.
Please note, however, that most classes are only “complete” later in the game. Skills are added as you level up. A class that seems boring at level 8 can be extremely challenging and a lot of fun at level 70.
Thanks to the talent tree, the true feel of a class only becomes apparent as the level increases. If you are unsure, you should at least stick with it until level 30 to get a rough feel for the class. Otherwise, it’s always worth talking to friends who can tell you about their own experiences.
Which class would you recommend to newcomers and why?