World of Warcraft: Druid Class Guide

As you may be aware, the Druid class is one of the few "hybrid" classes in
World of Warcraft. There are two types of classes in the game. "Parent"
or "pure" classes, such as Rogue and Mage, have one clear role. "Hybrid"
classes, such as Paladin, Shaman and Druid, combine several "Parent"
classes to make a more versatile but less specialized sub-class. In the case
of the Druid class, we combine aspects of the Warrior, Rogue, Mage and Priest
classes, making Druid one of the most flexible classes in the game. We are
less specialized than our parent classes, but we make up for lack of skills
with the ability to shift roles as the situation warrants. For example, a Cat
form Druid's parent class is Rogue. Though Cat Druids do not have the stuns,
poisons or crowd control of a Rogue, the Cat Druid makes up for that lack with
the ability to emergency-heal or off-tank, resurrect allies in battle and even
cast ranged magic spells. Bear Druids may not be able to use shields, Parry,
or armor heavier than leather, but unlike their Warrior parent class they can
heal themselves through several methods, and have a slightly easier time
holding aggro. This aspect of our class makes us very difficult (but also
rewarding!) to play, and sometimes it leaves other players confused as to our
role in a group. However, that's a small sacrifice to make for the variety
of playstyles that our class offers.

The thing that truly sets the Druid apart from the other hybrid classes is our
unique ability to shapeshift into various forms. Each form has a special
function patterned after its parent class. In bear form, we gain the Rage
and tanking functions of a Warrior. In cat form, we gain Energy, Stealth, and
melee damage of the Rogue class. In our native form (often referred to as
"Caster" form), we can use our magic spells to heal like a Priest or to cast
damaging spells like a Mage. We can also further specialize in our magics
as well. Tree of Life form, our healing form, allows us to use powerful Heal-
Over-Time spells more efficiently and to greater effect. Moonkin form, our
spellcasting form, gives us added armor and more chances for our offensive
spells to do critical damage.

So, if we can do all these things, who needs the parent classes, right? Well,
while we can perform all these functions, we can't be great at them all at
once. We are more dependant on our talent trees than any other class, and
each talent in each tree only augments one or two of our "play modes". To be
a great healer, we have to give up a great deal of damage and utility. To be
an effective tank, most of our magical abilities get left behind. Unlike the
other hybrid classes, we can't perform all our hybrid functions at once. Some
druids have coined our class "role-shifter" instead of hybrid, for this reason.

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