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The Goblins are the new playable race for Horde in the forthcoming Cataclysm expansion. Yes, the same Goblins who man the Zeppelin and Ship docks throughout most of Warcraft at the moment. My first thought on hearing this was “Well what happens to my Alliance characters rep with Booty Bay and Gadgetzan?”

Nothing… is the answer. The Horde Goblins are a schism of the main Goblin race. You will still find your favourite wide grinned cheeky chappies haggling and offering you a lift at all your favourite locations. Personally, I’m glad about this. I have grown to like the Goblin style. It reminds me of “CMOT Dibbler” from Discworld.

So the reasoning behind this split is that a faction of Goblins has been made homeless by attacks from Deathwing (I knew he’d be back). They have been driven to the Lost Isles and into the waiting and welcoming hands of the Horde.

In keeping with the opening up of classes for all races, Goblins will start with a good selection of; Hunter, Mage, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warlock, and Warrior. The two most “spiritual” classes of Druid and Paladin are left out, and this seems like a good choice.

The character models are a total revamp of the existing in-game NPC models. Expect far more detail, and a more sinister outlook all round.

The goblin’s racial abilities are;

Better Living Through Chemistry – A 15 point boost to alchemy. Continuing the form for 15 point rather than 5 point bonuses.

Pack Hobgoblin – A mobile bank! Yup, Bank and auction house facilities while on the field. This is the most intriguing development yet, especially for those who like to make gold with clever market manoeuvres. A very exciting turn of events for us.

Rocket Barrage – Erm, yes. Fire rockets at your foes. Initially with 30 points damage. We assume this scales with level (otherwise it’ll be pretty useless come level 25)

Rocket Jump – Akin to a Warriors charge, but as a racial talent. Useful for tanking

Time is Money – 1% Attack speed bonus. This final, passive trait will add a 1% increase to casting speed and attack speed.

It’s hard to pigeon-hole Goblin stats as they stand. The alchemy boost (for potions) and Rocket Jump combined seem like tanking abilities. If the Rocket Barrage ability has a quick cooldown and generates threat then that is probably the best deal.

So far The Goblins of Warcraft Cataclysm look a well thought out and exciting race. I can’t wait.

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