Retribution Paladin Rotation & Talent Build - Cataclysm Classic

Class

Spec

These guides are based on simulation data, tools, and theorycrafting from original Cataclysm. We'll be sure to update them when modern sims are finished. Rotations are likely to get optimized via sims, but it should already give you a very strong starting point.

Introduction

Retribution Paladins are 1 of 3 specializaitons to bring an All Damage increase with

Communion

, as well as Mana Replenishment with the same talent. All Paladins still bring

Blessing of Might

and

Blessing of Kings

for Attack Power, MP5, and Base Stat buffs. They also bring an Armor buff with

Devotion Aura

, and Spell Pushback reduction with

Concentration Aura

Cataclysm Classic Retribution Paladin Rotation

Paladins gain a new mechanic Holy Power which can be used to cast spells

Inquisition

and

Templar's Verdict

. Retribution Paladins have a handful of DPS cooldowns, as well as a couple of important high priority procs with

Divine Purpose

and

The Art of War

Single Target

Maintain your assigned Aura.
Use
Seal of Truth
.
Cast
Guardian of Ancient Kings (Retribution)
.
Cast
Avenging Wrath
and
Zealotry
. When you combine these with
Guardian of Ancient Kings (Retribution)
, wait until it has been active for 10 seconds .
Maintain
Inquisition
at 3 Holy Power.
Cast
Crusader Strike
below 3 Holy Power.
Cast
Templar's Verdict
with
Divine Purpose
proc.
Cast
Hammer of Wrath
on targets below 20% HP or during
Avenging Wrath
thanks to
Sanctified Wrath
.
Cast
Exorcism
with
The Art of War
proc.
Cast
Templar's Verdict
at 3 Holy Power.
Cast
Judgement
.
Cast
Holy Wrath
.
Cast
Consecration
.

AoE

Use
Seal of Righteousness
because of
Seals of Command
.
Same as single target except:
Cast
Divine Storm
instead of
Crusader Strike
if at least 4 enemies will be hit by it.
Consecration
and
Holy Wrath
switch priority.