World of Warcraft is poised for an exciting transformation with the Marksmanship Hunter specialization in the upcoming 11.1 update, aptly named “Undermine(d).” This marks a rare moment when a well-established class specialization will undergo such a dramatic redesign.
Changes to Pet Mechanics
According to the patch notes recently shared for the public test realm, Blizzard plans to refresh the Marksmanship Hunter’s identity by discarding conventional pet mechanics.
In their place, players will feature a unique eagle companion that aids in combat.
However, players will have less direct control over this companion compared to traditional pets.
Blizzard’s goal is to reestablish the sharpshooter vibe of this specialization while tackling several challenges, particularly concerning the Lone Wolf playstyle.
With the arrival of the 11.1 update, Marksmanship Hunters will no longer rely on standard pets; they will summon an eagle, which exists outside the usual gameplay framework but offers valuable combat support.
New Abilities and Overhauled Talent Tree
The decision to eliminate pets, a long-standing hallmark of the class, signals a major evolution.
The new eagle comes equipped with a range of active and passive abilities.
For instance, one ability, known as Harrier’s Cry, allows the eagle to dive down and provide a substantial 30% haste boost to party members for a 40-second duration.
Additionally, a passive ability called Eyes in the Sky enhances the efficacy of certain abilities empowered by Precise Shots, giving them a chance to mark enemies and subsequently increasing the damage of Aimed Shot against those targets.
Beyond the introduction of the eagle companion, the Marksmanship Hunter talent tree is also receiving a significant overhaul.
Blizzard is removing 19 talents, integrating some of their functionalities into established abilities like Steady Shot.
Notably, the previously talent-based Multi-shot will now be a core ability accessible to Marksmanship Hunters from level 10 onward.
Exciting New Content
In addition to talent deletions, various talents are being revamped, and numerous new ones are being introduced.
For example, the talent Ohn’ahran Winds can apply Spotter’s Mark to multiple targets, while Double Dap significantly increases the potency of True Shot and Rapid Fire abilities.
Furthermore, damage output for longtime favorites like Aimed Shot, Rapid Fire, and Steady Shot will see considerable increases.
Although the release date for the Undermine(d) update remains unconfirmed, players can look forward to exploring the thrilling new Undermine zone, complete with customized hot rods.
Datamined insights also hint at the inclusion of a tribute to Mats “Ibelin” Steen, a beloved figure highlighted in the recent Netflix documentary, *The Remarkable Life of Ibelin*.
In summary, the changes coming for Marksmanship Hunters promise to reshape gameplay and offer exciting new strategies, fresh challenges, and engaging experiences for players.
Source: GameSpot