patch 2.0.10 notes on the PTR

[ima_nerd]

I don't have any particular response to this, but this is a very good summary of the way things actually work. The idea that a Druid can do several roles well by only changing forms is a major misconception by many people. Mid-fight, Druids are fairly well locked into whatever role they are in with only a fraction of the ability to switch to something else unless they are wearing hybrid gear (at which point they are ok but not as good at everything).

A Feral Druid brought as an OT starting the fight as DPS can DPS, tank, throw an Innervate/Rebirth all in one fight. A Warrior brought as an OT starting the fight as DPS can DPS, tank poorly and... yeah, that's it.

If your tanking gear is radically different than your DPS gear, then please ignore the above statement and forgive my ignorance:)My Druid friend had maybe 3-4 pieces he would change back in the 1.X world when we ran things. I changed everything except my cloak. And that was only because I only had one cloak:P

Turning the question around, why would a raid leader bring a Feral druid if his tanking is less than/equal to the warriors', his DPS is less than the warriors' (a fact assuming his innervate, rebirths or healing is required at some point), and he would heal more as a Restoration druid and still provide both innervates and rebirths?

You're missing something vital. If the Druid's Innervates/Rebirths are required at some point, they are definitely worth more than DPS. The Druid can save the raid in an "Oh shi-" type situation while the DPS Warrior continues doing what he's been doing - DPS. How can you compare a Feral Druid to a DPS Warrior and then bring in a Resto Druid to the discussion? When competing for an OT position, a Feral Druid seems the clear choice. Imp LotP, Innervates/Rebirths in a pinch and FF far outweigh BS/CS and marginally more DPS from someone who isn't even in a true DPS position (OT position not being a DPS spot is what I mean.)

I read this whole thread up to this point in one sitting so if I stated something already said or completely missed some huge point, sorry:D