New Orgrimmar Arena - Video Preview

One word…amazing. Simply amazing. Blizzard has really out done themselves with this one. Let’s face it arenas currently are pretty boring, at least the map designs. The new orgrimmar arena is just stacked with really cool stuff.

• 2 pillar sets, 2 pillars per set. Only 2 of the pillars are up at a given time.
• Ability to stand on pillar and ride it to the top.
• 2 Fire walls that come up periodically and span the middle of the map.
• 2 Shadow sights (as expected)

This is the type of dynamic arena I’ve been waiting for. There’s so much going on in the arena, it adds a whole new level of difficulty to the map. I really hope we see changes like this retrofitted to the old areas as well as additional dynamic and exciting arena maps.

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Blade’s Edge Arena Strategy and Positioning

Often I hear of team’s and player’s who struggle on Blade’s Edge arena. This is in part because its’ the most complicated of any arena map and doesn’t offer the clear cut protections of a pillar or coffin to LoS around. That said, learning to LoS and positioning properly is still an attainable goal.

For the purpose of this guide I’ll be referring to all position references from a healer’s point of view, and the ideal locations team’s should attempt to position both DPS and healer positions in order to maintain LoS for heals, but avoid being relentlessly attacked.

To the right I’ve detailed a small map of Blade’s Edge arena with various positioning options you have available.

• Red lines - these are short range positions that take advantage of the pole extensions on the 4 corners of the bridge. Ideally the DPS would be centered in the bridge while you heal from the top ramp positions.
• Purple lines - these are long range heal positions where you’re simply trying to take advantage of healing range over the range of other casters. Same thing as above, heal from the ramp, fight in the middle.
• Position swaps - the green dots represent a few of the possible positions you could choose to stand at. None of these are set in stone. A healer or a DPS could stand in either one of them since the line of sight continues regardless.
• Ground level pillars - I’ve indicated them with red circles, you can use these just as you would use a pillar in Nagrand arena. In addition, while I have not indicated it on the map you can also use the pillar posts that hold up the bridge in the same manner. This can be a disadvantage though (discussed in next point).
• Plane of Interaction - there are 2 planes of interaction in blade’s edge, one on the ground level and another on bridge level. Generally speaking the bridge level plane is superior in every way. You have both position and distance LoS easily at your disposal, and you can quickly reposition to heal teammates on the bottom. For this reason choosing to fight on the ground level may not be an option. If your opposition sticks their healer or a ranged character up top you could be in a lot of trouble. At this point the advantage is 100% into their favor, especially if you are unable to completely avoid being attacked by the players on the ground you’re attempting to kite.
• Bridge Overhangs - there is one other location that can be particularly devastating from a LoS perspective if used correctly (and with the right classes). It’s positioned directly underneath the bridge right as the ramp part begins the bridge. There are small obstructions that jut out here, allowing a healer or DPS class (typically hunters) the ability to stick themselves in there and avoid most LoS. This is because it’s so difficult to find continued LoS to attack them, since you can move to either the left or right side of these small obstructions in these locations.

The overall strategy we’re going for with these positions is the development of a fluid and constantly moving line of sight technique. As a healer not moving is just not an option. You need to continue the constant position change in order to effectively heal, regain mana, and avoid damage. If you can successfully accomplish this then you’re well on your way to becoming a top tier arena team.

For more position strategies check out the full guide on Line of Sight Strategy and Positioning!