WoW SoD Phase 2 Best Classes (DPS, Healer, Tank) for Raid & PvP

With this guide, we will rank the best classes for Phase 2 of the WoW Season of Discovery (SoD) expansion. We will evaluate each class’ performance in PvE (raiding) as well as PvP based on data from Phase 1 as well as what is expected in Phase 2！

WoW Season of Discovery Phase 2 Best Classes

As the dust settles on the first phase of the Season of Discovery in WoW Classic, players are looking ahead to what Phase 2 could bring. Our guide is designed to help you understand which classes dominated Phase 1, excelling in PvE raid and PvP, and to predict which ones might rise to the top in Phase 2.

WoW SoD Phase 2 Best DPS Classes for PvE Raiding

The effectiveness of DPS classes in PvE raids can be measured by their damage output, adaptability to various boss mechanics, and the unique utilities they bring to the raid group. Drawing from the provided Phase 1 data and looking ahead to what may come in Phase 2, we can identify the standout DPS classes for raiding.

1. Hunter

While no longer the undisputed number one in raid DPS, Hunters remain a top-tier class due to their versatility and strong performance in raids. Their ability to deal with a variety of mechanics while maintaining consistent damage output ensures their place as one of the best DPS classes in WoW.

2. Warrior

Warriors came out as a surprise in Phase 1, dominating the PvE scene with their high damage and beneficial buffs like Battle Shout. The introduction of abilities such as Mortal Strike in Phase 2 could potentially boost their standing even further.

3. Warlock

Warlocks are at the top of the caster DPS ranks, particularly in BFD, where their damage and utility shine. With the ability to provide Healthstones and powerful curses, they have secured a definite spot in raid groups.

4. Mage

Mages are not far behind Warlocks in terms of raid DPS, and they boast incredible AoE damage capabilities. Their utility in crowd control and potential for off-healing further cements their position as one of the best DPS classes for raids.

5. Rogue

Rogues, while not outperforming the top Warriors, have shown to be a more consistent DPS class across various skill levels. With their ability to execute complex mechanics without sacrificing damage, they are invaluable in any raid setup.

Choosing the Best DPS Class for Raids

When selecting the best DPS class for raids, it's essential to consider not only the raw damage numbers but also how each class's toolkit can contribute to the overall success of the raid team. With Phase 2's adjustments, players should be prepared for potential shifts in the meta that could affect class performance.

Keep in mind that personal skill and familiarity with a class can often outshine small differences in theoretical DPS output. Choosing a class that matches your preferred playstyle and contributes to your raid group's strategy will lead to the most enjoyable and successful raiding experience.

WoW SoD Phase 2 Best Healer Specs for PvE Raiding

When picking the best healer class for raids in WoW Season of Discovery Phase 2, consider factors such as the class's healing abilities, strengths, and versatility. Look for classes that excel in raid healing, have strong area healing or single-target healing capabilities, and provide useful support or defensive cooldowns. Additionally, consider the class's mana efficiency, burst healing potential, and overall utility in a raid setting.

1. Restoration Druid

Excellent raid healing through Healing Touch and strong healing over time with Rejuvenation. The Balance Affinity rune allows for minor DPS contribution through Wrath. Considered the strongest and best healer for Phase 2.

2. Discipline Priest

Offers shields and damage potential, making it a great hybrid option. While it lacks raw healing compared to Holy, Discipline Priests could see an increase in damage potential alongside shields with new talents.

3. Shaman

The new Tidal Force rune provides strong burst group healing and mana restoration every minute. The Ancestral Gift rune shares 10% of mana restoration with the whole raid, offering significant raid support capabilities.

WoW SoD Phase 2 Best Tank Specs for PvE Raiding

When considering tank picking in WoW Season of Discovery Phase 2, there are several factors to take into account.

1. Warrior

Warriors are generally considered the best tanks in WoW SoD Phase 2. Especially in these 5 and 10 man situations, Warrior might bring more than any other class simply due to the damage increase of 5 sunders, not too mention high tankiness, battle shout, the ability to forgo a 2nd tank entirely (i.e. you are a DPS that plays as off-tank), and the silly elite-enemy deleting burst that Sweeping / WW / Impale / Deep Wounds provides, which will trivialize add / target swap phases.

2. Shaman

Shaman tanks are also mentioned as a viable option, potentially focusing on 2h Enhance in Phase 2.

3. Rogue

Rogues are seen as strong DPS, but may not be as effective as tanks. It is worth noting that the availability of new runes and changes to the game mechanics in Phase 2 could impact tank performance.

WoW SoD Phase 2 Best PvP Classes

Player versus Player (PvP) combat in World of Warcraft is a dynamic and ever-changing aspect of the game that can be heavily influenced by the balance changes introduced in each new phase. Based on the performance of classes in Phase 1 and the projections for Phase 2, let's break down the classes that are expected to excel in PvP.

1. Rogue

Rogues are traditionally strong in PvP due to their stealth abilities, crowd control, and burst damage. In Phase 1, they continued to be a dominant force, capable of dictating the pace of one-on-one encounters. With the potential to grow stronger in Phase 2, Rogues are positioned to maintain their status as a top-tier PvP class.

2. Paladin

Retribution Paladins have shown themselves to be powerhouses in Phase 1, with high burst damage and strong area-of-effect (AoE) abilities. Their utility and survivability also make them formidable opponents. In PvP, their capacity to deliver devastating blows makes them a class to be wary of on the battlefield.

3. Druid

Druids, especially in the Boomkin form, have proven to be incredibly powerful in PvP settings. Their versatility allows them to adapt to various combat situations, and their ability to heal and dish out damage makes them invaluable. Their performance in Phase 1 suggests they will continue to be a strong PvP choice.

4. Hunter

Hunters excel in controlling the battlefield with their traps and pet abilities. Their ranged damage output is very high, and with upcoming enhancements to abilities like Bestial Wrath, their pets are expected to become even more formidable. Hunters are likely to remain a top pick for PvP enthusiasts.

5. Mage

Mages are a force to be reckoned with in PvP due to their powerful AoE spells, crowd control abilities like Polymorph and Frost Nova, and high burst damage. Their mobility and utility spells, like Blink and Ice Block, make them slippery targets. The strategic use of Mages in Phase 1's PvP suggests their impact will only grow in Phase 2.

Choosing Your PvP Class

When deciding on the best class for PvP in Phase 2, consider not just the individual power of each class but also how they synergize with team strategies and counter opposing classes. Balance patches can shift the meta, so it's also important to stay informed about any changes as they come. Ultimately, the best class for PvP is one that aligns with your preferred playstyle and the role you want to fulfill on your team.