What you need to know about classes in Classic

Classes in Classic WoW work a little bit different from how they are in retail WoW. Most hybrid classes were only really good at one thing, if that. So for example, Paladins were typically healers in raids. It is very rare for a retribution paladin to actively raid. In this class guide, I will go over the different roles and tiers of classes, to give you a better overview.
To be able to choose the best class for you, you need to know some things about what you want to do in the game.

  • Do you play mostly PvE, PvP, or both?
  • What role do you like the most? Healing, Tanking or dealing Damage?
  • Do you like to play ranged or melee classes?
  • Do you like playing as a caster?

The best classes for pure PvP

At the top of the PvP class guide list for classic are Warriors, Warlocks and Rogues, with Priests following very close behind. Warlocks are great for their CC potential. They have many ways to keep the enemy away and keep dealing damage from a distance. Many classes struggle with Warlock opponents. When it comes to the Warriors and Rogues, they are a bit harder to master, but when played well, they can take apart multiple enemies. Especially the rogue is great for this, because of the high CC capability, such as Sap and Blind, to keep multiple enemies at bay. Here is the full list:

  • S-Tier: Warrior, Priest
  • A-Tier: Warlock, Mage, Rogue
  • B-Tier: Shaman, Paladin
  • C-Tier: Hunter, Druid

Best class choices for raids & dungeons

When it comes to PvE, it really depends on your preferences. If you want a secure spot in your guild raids, Mage or Warrior is a good choice, since these two classes are by far the most present in raids. This means, though, that you will have higher competition for gear. The most used healer in raids is the Priest, but other healers have very good chances, too, since healers are always needed.

Not everyone likes healing in raids, just like tanking, so if you want to fill an important role in the raids, these are your choice. If you still want to be more useful than a simple Damage Dealer, but don’t like tanking or healing, you might want to consider a Warlock. Warlocks are very useful in raids, since they can summon other players and provide health stones, for an additional heal in combat. They do have to farm soul shards, though.


After all, you should play what you have the most fun with!