Shaman Tanks Arrive in The Rookery Dungeon?

As players delve into the depths of The Rookery during The War Within expansion, they may encounter an unexpected ally - a Shaman tank named Baelgrim. This unique follower NPC showcases some intriguing possibilities for the future of Shaman class design.

Baelgrim, the Shaman Tank

Keen-eyed players will spot Baelgrim and his retinue of Earthen companions replacing the standard four-member follower group during The Rookery's story playthrough. While the other three followers fit expected Shaman, Mage, and Hunter roles, Baelgrim stands out by fulfilling the tank position while still maintaining his Shaman class identity.

Baelgrim's abilities reflect this hybrid role, featuring a Chain Lightning for ranged pulls and an AoE frontal cone attack. His most notable ability is a passive "Stormward" stance that provides a straightforward damage reduction effect, allowing him to effectively tank enemies.

Shaman Tanks for Players?

The introduction of a Shaman tank NPC raises interesting questions about the future of Shaman class design in The War Within. During the beta, Blizzard promised further Shaman changes beyond the initial class tree updates, hinting at the potential for more significant alterations.

The reintroduction of mitigation abilities like Seasoned Winds and Stone Bulwark Totem has fueled speculation that Shamans could be receiving a fourth tank specialization. While this may have seemed implausible in the past, the precedent set by the new Evoker Augmentation specialization in Dragonflight demonstrates Blizzard's willingness to expand class options.

Interestingly, Shaman tanks are not entirely new to World of Warcraft. In the Season of Discovery, Shamans gained access to tanking abilities through the Rune system, showcasing the class's potential to fill the tank role.

Shaman Stories in The War Within

Narratively, the introduction of a Shaman tank NPC could not have come at a better time. As The War Within delves deep into Azeroth's subterranean regions, an Earth-themed Shaman specialization would be a perfect fit. Additionally, Thrall's prominent role in the expansion's marketing has yet to fully manifest, leaving room for a potential narrative arc exploring his connection to the elements.

Shamans have often been overlooked in recent expansions, but with the planet itself taking center stage in The War Within, this may be the perfect opportunity for the class to receive the spotlight it deserves. Much like the Augmentation Evokers in Dragonflight patch 10.1, a new Shaman tank specialization could be the focus of a future War Within patch or sub-patch.

While it's possible that Baelgrim's tank role is simply a narrative necessity for The Rookery dungeon, the potential for a Shaman tank specialization has excited many players. Blizzard now has the perfect chance to deliver on this long-standing request during The War Within's ongoing development.