Patch 3.3 PTR: Rogues learn to stealth properly
Patch 3.3's notes are pretty sparse so far, and the rogue-centric bits are really no exception. Rogues only have three little bullet points, two of which apply strictly to the leveling game. The first is that rogues will have Dual Wield right at level 1, which only makes sense. It's quite possibly the most iconic part of the class. Waiting until level 10 to get your hands on it always felt a little off. The first ten levels is hardly indicative of the sort of combat you'll be getting into as that particular class.
The second change seems to aim for that same purpose: Making the first ten levels as a rogue feel more rogue-like.
Stealth: This ability no longer has multiple ranks. While active, the single rank of this ability (available at level 1) allows rogues to move at 70% movement speed.
Stealth is a lot less fun when it's as slow as molasses, isn't it?
The third change is the big one. The one that rogues have wanted for years now. Through thick and thin, this is an issue that has always been on the list. We heard the change was coming a few days ago, and now we get to see the form it might take.
Vanish: For the first second after this ability is used, neither Vanish nor Stealth can be broken by taking damage or being the victim of a hostile spell or ability.
A change like that just might render Chase's Vanish macro obsolete, and we can certainly hope it does. Now, the cynical side of us all expects some pretty harsh backlash from that sort of change. Neither Chase nor myself will be particularly shocked if Vanish inflicts a Hand of Protection styled pacify effect for the duration of the immunity. We all hope and pray it doesn't happen, but right now a working Vanish with no drawbacks is an idea too good to be true.
We'll have an eye on the PTR and keep everyone updated as the patch develops.
