In the tier list below, we rank each spec for PvP and PvE content in WoW Classic.
All the information in this guide is based on Patch 1.12 and our time in the WoW: Classic Beta
Our tier list covers all the specs and how they perform in PvE content in WoW. We've taken into account a number of aspects, including how they perform in raiding and dungeons, and how they do over a vast range of gear levels.
So, if a spec like Elemental only performs once it has top-end gear, it probably won't feature as an S-tier pick.
World of Warcraft: Classic PvE Spec Tier List
S-Tier
The top dogs, the best of the best. If you want to shine in Classic, especially in the first raid tier, these are the specs for you.
Note: An exception has been made in S-Tier for the Fire Mage. The spec is all but useless in raiding during MC and BWL, however, due to its power gain in AQ and beyond we felt S-Tier was its rightful place.
A-Tier
You won't quite be an unstoppable machine, but the specs in this tier will service you through most of Classic with relative ease.
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Affliction Warlock |
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Destruction Warlock |
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Feral Cat Druid |
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Restoration Druid |
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Restoration Shaman |
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Frost Mage |
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Survival Hunter |
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Holy Paladin |
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Assassination Rogue |
B-Tier
These are OK specs, if played well and in the right situation. While not as dominant at all times, they'll have their moment in the limelight.
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Elemental Shaman |
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Protection Paladin |
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Shadow Priest |
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Beast Mastery Hunter |
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Marksmanship Hunter |
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Subtlety Rogue |
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Demonology Warlock |
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Discipline Priest |
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Arcane Mage |
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Balance Druid |
C-Tier
While they aren't necessarily bad, just make sure you know what you're getting yourself in for. These specs have their moments — especially if you have the right gear — but you'll need to bring your A-game to make them work.
World of Warcraft: Classic PvP Spec Tier List
Below you will find our tier list for all the specs and how they perform in PvP content in WoW.
We've taken into account a number of aspects, including how they perform in Battlegrounds and World PvP, and how they do over a vast range of gear levels.
So, if a spec like Retribution only performs once it has top end gear, it probably won't feature as an S-tier pick.
S-Tier
Arguably the best specs in Classic. You'll likely dominate, regardless of tier set or gear. Just make sure you have the right talents, and you'll boss PvP.
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Subtlety Rogue |
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Arms Warrior |
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Frost Mage |
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Affliction Warlock |
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Survival Hunter |
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Elemental Shaman |
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Holy Paladin |
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Discipline Priest |
A-Tier
Great picks for PvP, these specs have the tools to perform at a high level throughout Classic.
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Destruction Warlock |
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Fire Mage |
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Fury Warrior |
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Assassination Rogue |
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Marksmanship Hunter |
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Feral Combat (Cat) |
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Holy Priest |
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Restoration Shaman |
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Restoration Druid |
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Restribution Paladin |
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Beast Mastery Hunter |
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Shadow Priest |
B-Tier
Good options for PvP, these specs are just slightly more gear-dependent than the tiers above. You'll still do well — just make sure you get some gear before queuing for a Battleground.
C-Tier
This one is reserved for the tanks, as PvP isn't really their wheelhouse. Sure, you might have some joy as a Warsong Gulch flag runner, but we still think you'd be better off looking at the other specs available for your class.
Written by David Hollingsworth.
