Has it been considered to increase the shaman spec point multiplier? Shaman are the only seer/naturalist/acolyte class that has no spec defensive, insta CC, or insta heals while at the same time being penalized with a 1.0 multiplier.
On one hand, shaman aren't the same as other (1.0x) spec buffers who have access to insta heals and insta CC (understanding that shaman aren't primary healers). On the other hand, they don't get the defensive abilities (or extra spec points) of all other buff capable healing classes.
With the understanding that a shaman is going to be among, if not the most vulnerable of all standard support classes, I think they should feel more complete in their ability to spellcast/justifying said vulnerability. Similar to how a warden, friar, heretic or bard is able to effectively spec higher into 3 lines, why shouldn't a shaman be able to? It doesn't have the insta heals, so why should it be limited to 1.0x spec? Is the value of spec buffs (vs the difference of a hero flask) enough justification to keep Shaman as the only oddball 1.0x non-insta heal support class in the game while all others get 1.5-1.8-2.0x?
Is there a balance risk by allowing Shaman enough spec points (1.5x)? Alternatively it may also help by making their nuke baseline; at 41 spec the nuke delve is kind of mediocre, but I feel like that would still be more useful than a DOT potentially breaking a subsequent mezz/root. The shaman has this subcaster and debuffer type role but unless you're going to sacrifice buffs and group healing/cleansing then your damage will go from mediocre to horrific. You can't even run the 2nd best nuke (148d) and get yellow spec buffs+group disease cure (and that's with no spec group heals and cleansing). I think shaman should at least be able to deal their mediocre damage while also having access to yellow group buffs and blue group healing/cleansing.
EG
2nd best nuke/bolt, 2nd group heal, 1st group hot, cure nearsight, yellow specs
26 mend
39 aug
46 cave
Maybe I'm totally out in left field here
