There are 10 different classes in World of Warcraft and they each represent a strikingly different style of play that can suit any number of players in different ways. So when it comes time to choose your class, it can be a bit of a brain racking decision. Here are a few tips that will help make that decision easier and to streamline the class selection process.
Leveling Speed
When it comes to leveling speed, there are some classes that are just better than others at staying alive and leveling up when playing alone. For this reason, if your goal is solely to reach Level 80 before anyone else, it might be a good idea to look into the variety of speed leveling classes that are out there.
At the top of the list is the Hunter. This ranged DPS class is so effective because of the inclusion of a pet and a range of high damage abilities. Because the Hunter never really needs to engage and take damage from an enemy, and because when they do, they can use a variety of abilities like Feign Death to get away from the enemy, it's quite easy to stay alive with this class, making them ideal for high speed leveling.
Other classes that excel at staying alive include Druids – who are able to heal themselves quite easily – and Warlocks who also have pets and a variety of ways to restore mana and health on their own. On the other hand, some classes, like the Warrior or Paladin take much longer to level because they are strictly melee and must constantly rest and replenish their health and mana.
Role in End-Game Content
Another thing to consider when choosing a class is what role you want to play in the end-game content. Are you more interested in playing something active – such as a tank or DPS – or would you like to be in a supporting role such as a healer. Tanks will most often go with a Protection Warrior spec, though those who want to mix things up every now and then can also choose Paladins, Druids, or Death Knights. DPS players include Hunters, Mages, Rogues, and Warlocks and healers include Shamans, Druids, Priests, and Holy Paladins.
Favored Play Style
The final thing to consider is what kind of character you like to play. If you most enjoy playing a complex, ever changing role, then a hybrid class is best for you. These include the likes of Shamans, Paladins, Druids, and Death Knights who can all switch between healing, tanking, and DPS depending on the role and the necessity.
If you are more interested in a strict, singular role where the rules are set and your moves are relatively static, a traditional class is better for you. This would be something like a Warrior, Priest, Mage, or Hunter – all classes with relatively simple interfaces and straightforward roles in raids.
The goal in choosing your class effectively is to find a character you will enjoy playing for the next few months or years and that will allow you to excel in the ways that you are best at. If you don't make that decision, you may find that your characters are harder to maintain through leveling and end-game content, if only because it starts to become a chore.
