Goblin vs. Gnomish Engineering in Dragonflight: A Deep Dive
The age-old question of Goblin Engineering versus Gnomish Engineering continues to spark debate among World of Warcraft players, especially now in Dragonflight. While the core of Engineering remains the same – the creation of gadgets, gizmos, and powerful contraptions – the specializations offer distinct advantages and appeal to different playstyles. In Dragonflight, the distinction isn’t quite as stark as in prior expansions due to the new crafting system, but key differences still exist, primarily revolving around the four new specializations: Optimized Efficiency, Explosives, Function Over Form, and Mechanical Mind. Here’s a breakdown of what truly sets them apart.
In essence, the major difference in Dragonflight is not a hard split between Gnomish and Goblin engineering, but instead what you choose to specialize in through the crafting tree. Before Dragonflight, players had to make a hard choice between the two, and could only change through unlearning all their progress. The new talent system opens more flexibility.
The New Engineering Specializations and Their Implications
In Dragonflight, Engineering is no longer defined by a binary choice of Gnomish or Goblin. Instead, you level as a singular Engineer, and then utilize a talent system to enhance your ability in 4 specific areas. This means no longer is there a specific split of items that are only craftable if you are a specific engineer.
Optimized Efficiency
This specialization focuses on reducing material costs and increasing crafting speed. It’s ideal for players who frequently craft or plan to make a lot of different gadgets. It allows you to refine your resources, and make the most from what you collect. This is a generic path suitable for all engineers.
Explosives
Here, players can specialize in powerful bombs and damage-dealing devices. If you enjoy dealing damage via engineering items, or causing chaos in a pvp environment, then this specialization is for you. If you want the most damaging items possible, then this is the most essential path.
Function Over Form
This specialization leans into the crafting of utility-focused items, such as gadgets for movement, stealth, or survival. If you value the convenience and ability to utilize these effects, then this specialization is for you. It is perfect for those who enjoy the engineering flavor without wanting to deal damage.
Mechanical Mind
Players who dedicate themselves to this path, will focus on improving the durability of crafted items, and the creation of complex machines. While the items in this path are extremely valuable, they are typically niche, and expensive to produce. It is best used to craft for others.
How Did They Differ Before Dragonflight?
Prior to Dragonflight, Gnomish Engineering was known for its more quirky and utility-based devices, often focused on teleportation and fun gadgets. Gnomish engineers could craft items like the Gnomish Battle Chicken and various teleportation devices. Conversely, Goblin Engineering leaned heavily into explosives and damage-dealing items. Goblin engineers specialized in bombs, rockets, and generally more chaotic devices, often with the risk of malfunctions. They had access to things like the Goblin Rocket Helmet and a variety of volatile weaponry. This distinction is less prominent now, due to the new crafting system. However, the core ideas are still reflected. Gnomes typically seek to build items that are reliable and useful, whereas Goblins are more concerned with things that are explosive and powerful.
What is the best path for you?
The specialization that you choose should revolve around your needs. If you are an engineer that prefers to use your own items, and enjoys being self sufficient, then Optimized Efficiency may be the best for you. If you are interested in dealing damage, then Explosives is essential. If you wish to enjoy the unique utility that engineering provides, then the Function Over Form path is most useful. Finally, if you are aiming to make gold, by crafting valuable items for others, then Mechanical Mind is your best bet.
Ultimately, the “best” specialization is subjective and depends on individual playstyle and needs. There is no objectively “better” path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that further explore the nuances of Goblin and Gnomish Engineering, especially in the context of Dragonflight:
1. Can you be both Gnomish and Goblin Engineer in Dragonflight?
In Dragonflight, you do not need to choose between Gnomish and Goblin Engineering. You can level engineering and allocate points in the four crafting specializations. So instead of being strictly locked into one of the two types of engineering, you can now focus on the abilities that best fit your needs.
2. How do I specialize in a crafting tree in Dragonflight Engineering?
To specialize, you need to gain Artisan’s Knowledge. This is primarily obtained from crafting, but there are some other methods. You will then use this knowledge in the Engineering crafting tree to purchase talent points. You must spend 25 points in the Engineering tree before you can spend points in the 4 specialized trees.
3. Is mining still the best pairing for engineering in Dragonflight?
Yes, Mining remains the best complementary profession for Engineering. The vast majority of materials needed for Engineering recipes are acquired through mining. While some Dragonflight recipes include herbs, the core of crafting remains ore-based, so mining is crucial.
4. How does the Gnomish Death Ray work in Dragonflight?
The Gnomish Death Ray remains a potent damage tool, although it’s been rebalanced over the years. It is classified as physical damage, and can therefore be mitigated by the target’s armour. It can deal between 700-1500 damage, and can deal double that amount if it critically strikes. The damage of the Gnomish Death Ray is enhanced by specializing in the Explosives talent tree.
5. What are the best explosives for PVP?
The best explosives for pvp are specific to your playstyle. The most commonly used items are the Gnomish Mind Control Cap, High-Powered Bolt Gun, and various other bombs. The type of explosive is less important than your specific preferences. The Explosives tree is your best bet for optimizing this.
6. What are the best utility items?
The best utility items are also subjective to your preferences. However, some commonly used utility items include the Wormhole Generator, and the Gravity Inversion Stabilizer. The Function Over Form tree will optimize these items.
7. What is the difference between “Utility” and “Function Over Form?”
Utility can mean anything that has a purpose outside of dealing direct damage. The Function Over Form tree specifically focuses on the types of utility items that aid the user, typically by providing mobility, defense, or stealth.
8. How do I switch specializations in Dragonflight?
You can freely reallocate your talent points within the profession tree. Simply go to your profession tab, and click “respec talent points” to undo your allocated talent points. You can then allocate the points in other areas. You do not need to do any additional quests, or seek out any specific trainer.
9. Can Goblin Engineers still make rocket boots?
In Dragonflight, the core of the crafting remains consistent, however, it is not locked to the type of engineer you are. Instead, the Function Over Form tree includes most of the items that Goblin Engineers used to create, such as the rocket boots.
10. Are there any profession quests in Dragonflight?
Yes, there are several profession quests in Dragonflight. These quests typically provide Artisan’s Knowledge, and specific items related to your craft. These quests typically involve exploring the new Dragon Isle regions.
11. Does gear affect engineering?
Yes, the crafting gear that you can obtain from Dragonflight increases your skill in the profession. This gear allows you to craft higher quality items, that require less resources to craft. These items also come with their own unique buffs, allowing you to further specialize in your trade.
12. Are there any rare items to look out for?
Yes, there are several rare schematics, and crafted items to look out for. These items are typically discovered through crafting, or through treasure hunting in the Dragon Isle zones. The items that provide Artisan’s Knowledge are extremely valuable, as these allow you to gain more talent points.
13. Are Gnomish or Goblin devices more prone to malfunction in Dragonflight?
In Dragonflight, there isn’t a specific “malfunction” mechanic tied to the old Gnomish vs Goblin divide. Malfunctions were a feature of old expansions that is no longer implemented. The quality of your crafted items will depend on your skill level, and the resources used.
14. Is it harder to level Engineering in Dragonflight?
Engineering in Dragonflight is different, but not necessarily harder. Leveling now involves a different system than simply crafting items to gain skill points. The new crafting system focuses on completing work orders and gathering new types of resources. It is a more methodical process, than simply crafting the same items repeatedly.
15. What is the best way to make gold with Engineering in Dragonflight?
The best way to make gold with engineering is to find a niche to capitalize on. This may involve focusing on consumables, items that are in high demand, or items that are expensive to produce. Using the Mechanical Mind talent tree can allow you to produce valuable items that are in high demand.
By understanding these nuances and the shift in Dragonflight, you can make the best choices for your Engineering journey and maximize its potential. Whether you prefer explosive chaos or ingenious utility, Engineering in Dragonflight offers something for everyone.