The Ultimate Guide to Pre-BiS Gear for Retribution Paladins in Cataclysm

Introduction

As a Retribution Paladin preparing for the challenges of Cataclysm, obtaining the best pre-BiS (Best-in-Slot) gear is crucial to maximizing your potential. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information on the optimal gear you should aim for, including dungeon drops, reputation rewards, and crafted items.

Dungeon Drops

• Head: Lightsworn Headguard (The Stonecore)
• Neck: Icon of Holy Devotion (Grim Batol)
• Shoulders: Mantle of Ignored Divinity (The Vortex Pinnacle)
• Chest: Sanctified Battlesuit (Throne of the Tides)
• Wrists: Accursed Handguards (Halls of Origination)
• Hands: Grips of the Forgotten Vanquisher (Baradin Hold)
• Waist: Girdle of the Lost Conqueror (Throne of the Tides)
• Legs: Legplates of Pure Devotion (Throne of the Tides)
• Feet: Boots of the Forgotten Vanquisher (Baradin Hold)

Reputation Rewards

• Back: Cloak of the Besieged (Baradin Wardens)
• Ring 1: Band of the Prophet (Tol Barad)
• Ring 2: Signet of the Crusader (Argent Crusade)

Crafted Items

• Weapon: Gladiator's Malice (Blacksmithing)
• Trinket 1: Spine of the Volatile Elemental (Engineering)
• Trinket 2: Alchemist's Stone (Alchemy)

Optimization Strategies

Stat Priorities:

• Strength: Increases melee attack power.
• Agility: Increases attack power, critical strike rating, and armor.
• Critical Strike Rating: Increases the chance to deal critical strikes.
• Hit Rating: Ensures that all attacks hit their targets.

Hit Cap:

• Ensure that you reach the hit cap of 263 hit rating to avoid missing attacks.

Glyph Selection:

• Glyph of Crusader Strike: Increases the damage of Crusader Strike by 20%.
• Glyph of Judgment: Increases the duration of Judgment by 10 seconds.
• Glyph of Sanctity Aura: Increases the healing received from Sanctity Aura by 20%.

Stories

The Absent-Minded Paladin

A paladin named Sir Reginald was raiding a dungeon when he realized that he had forgotten his weapon. "By the Light!" he exclaimed in horror. "Where is my sword?" He frantically searched his inventory, only to find... a fishing pole.

Lesson: Even in the heat of battle, stay organized and don't leave home without your essential gear.

The Overconfident Paladin

Another paladin, Sir Percival, was boasting about his prowess in the guild chat. "I'm the best Retribution Paladin on the server," he declared. When asked to prove it, he charged into a group of mobs and promptly got obliterated.

Lesson: Humility is a virtue, especially in the face of adversity. Don't underestimate your enemies.

The Helpful Healer

A paladin named Lady Anya was raiding a raid when her healer ran out of mana. Without hesitation, she cast a Divine Plea to give the healer a boost of healing power.

Lesson: Support your fellow players whenever possible. Teamwork is the key to success.

Tables

Pre-BiS Gear Summary

Stat Budget

Socket Gemming

FAQs

Q: What is the best profession for Retribution Paladins in Cataclysm?
A: Blacksmithing is recommended for the Gladiator's Malice weapon.

Q: How do I farm reputation for the Baradin Wardens?
A: Complete daily quests and kill mobs in the Baradin Hold area.

Q: What is the best way to improve my critical strike chance?
A: Equip items with critical strike rating and use the Glyph of Crusader Strike.

Q: How much armor penetration should I aim for?
A: Armor penetration is not a priority for Retribution Paladins in Cataclysm.

Q: What is the recommended rotation for Retribution Paladins?
A: The optimal rotation involves using Templar's Verdict, Crusader Strike, and Judgment on cooldown.

Q: How do I heal myself as a Retribution Paladin?
A: Use the Divine Plea ability and the Glyph of Sanctity Aura to increase your healing received.

Call to Action

By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can optimize your pre-BiS gear for Cataclysm and become a formidable force on the battlefield. Remember to prioritize the right stats, choose the best gear, and implement effective strategies. With dedication and teamwork, you can conquer any challenge that Cataclysm throws your way.