by Brady Rutgarr

Created on: October 23, 2009

The World of Warcraft Paladin is, by far, one of the easiest starting classes to play. Dealing both physical and holy magic damage, the Paladin can land heavy blows while also having the ability to heal when their health gets low. The easiest leveling specialization for the Paladin class is Retribution, the damage dealing spec. Played correctly, the savvy Paladin will rarely run out of mana and will be capable of taking on groups of attackers at or slightly above the player's level. With carefully timed usage of protective shields and Lay on Hands, a Paladin can solo most Elite non-dungeon quests while leveling.

Playing a Paladin in World of Warcraft can have other perks as well. Much like the Warlock class, Paladins receive their class-specific mounts at level 20 (for non-epic) and level 61 (for epic) from their respective class trainers. Also, Paladins have the choice of three distinct specializations to choose from. They can focus on dealing damage, tanking, or healing and they can perform each of these specializations superbly if talent points are spent correctly within the specialization of choice.

Paladins are also very well suited for both Player versus Environment and Player versus Player play styles. A force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, a well played Paladin can utilize their protective shield ability as well as Blessing of Freedom to close the gaps that other classes must maintain to stay alive in PvP combat. Careful timing of these abilities can negate opposing class spells, and burn valuable cool downs for your opponent. With a competent healer, a Paladin is a nearly unstoppable force, so long as they do not forget to protect those valuable healers from battle-conscious enemy. A Paladin can also be quite effective in the bank ranks as a healer. With the ability to wear plate armor, they can withstand more direct hits in the event that team members are unable to stop a direct attack right away.

End-game for the Paladin includes a practical necessity of Dual Specialization, an ability that allows the player to switch specs without revisiting a trainer. The interface for Dual Specialization also allows the player to maintain two sets of ability bars and glyphs. This ability is available at level 40 but can be purchased at any time after the player obtains the required level. Many players opt to wait until later in the game to acquire Dual Specialization as it costs 1,000 gold. For those interested, it can be purchased from your class trainer.

All in all, the Paladin makes for a create primary character or alt, if even just to take a break from your normal class. Sometimes the best way to figure out a class's particular weaknesses is to level one up and experience the game play for yourself. As part of the process you can learn what does and does not work, which will help you to determine when your foe has made a mistake or missed a key opportunity to gain the upper hand.

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