Getting to level 90 in World of Warcraft: Mist of Pandaria Classic is just the beginning of your journey. With raids like Mogu'shan Vaults opening soon after launch, you've got a tight window to gear up and be raid-ready. Whether you're a hardcore player racing to max level or someone enjoying the scenic route, this guide outlines the top tasks to focus on in those crucial 10 days from July 21 to July 31. For more WoW Classic tips and resources, consider bookmarking our site and exploring our WoW Classic store for exclusive gear and guides!
1. Kickstart Your Reputation Grinds
Reputations are your first priority at level 90. Focus on three key factions: The Tillers, Klaxxi, and Golden Lotus. If you've been questing efficiently from 85 to 90, you've likely started these already. The Tillers is critical—daily crop harvesting grants reputation, and reaching Revered unlocks Motes of Harmony planting, essential for crafting. Klaxxi and Golden Lotus offer powerful 489 rings and necks, but their repeatable quests unlock after the first raid reset, so start dailies early to chip away at the grind.
2. Begin the Legendary Quest Line
The Black Prince's legendary quest line is a must. Please pick it up immediately to start earning reputation with every kill in Dread Wastes or Vale of Eternal Blossoms. Rogues with Cataclysm's legendary daggers skip the initial reputation grind, jumping straight to raid-related tasks. While you won't progress far until raids open, starting early ensures you're building rep passively.
3. Hit the Heroic Dungeon Item Level (435)
To queue for heroic dungeons via the Dungeon Finder, you need an item level of 435. If you're in a premade group, you can bypass this with Cataclysm heroic gear. Boost your item level with crafted PvP gear (item level 450) from the Auction House, guild crafters, or your own professions. The Arena of Annihilation scenario also rewards a 450 weapon—pick up the quest from Girkf at the Temple of the White Tiger.
4. Spam Heroic Dungeons
Heroic dungeons are your primary source of 463 gear. Queue specifically for dungeons that drop your class's epic items (e.g., Shadow-Pan Monastery for monks needing fist weapons). Run as many as possible to maximize drops and earn Valor Points, which are crucial for upgrades.
5. Craft Epic Profession Gear
Professions such as Engineering, Leatherworking, Tailoring, and Blacksmithing offer bind-on-equip epics, including goggles, gloves, and chests. Even if you don't have these professions, team up with guildmates or check the Auction House. Prioritize crafting these items to replace weaker slots and boost your item level.
6. Secure a Darkmoon Faire Trinket
Darkmoon Faire trinkets are pre-raid BiS for most classes, but they require effort. If you're an Inscriptionist, start your daily Scroll of Wisdom cooldowns early (no skill required). Trade or buy individual cards to complete your deck, or splurge on a full deck if you're gold-rich. Gatherers can farm herbs to fuel Inscription cooldowns, making this process faster.
7. Stockpile Lesser Charms for Bonus Rolls
You'll need 90 Lesser Charms (or possibly 50, pending Blizzard's decision) for three bonus rolls in raids. Daily quests for Klaxxi and Golden Lotus provide charms, but pet battles are a quick alternative. Complete pet trainer quests for gold and charms to hit your target before raids open.
8. Cap Valor Points
Aim to cap Valor Points (1,600 per week) at least twice before raids, giving you around 3,200 Valor. Spend these on 489 gear, such as rings, necks, or shoulders, to fill gaps in your current gear. Valor gear offers a significant item level jump from 463 dungeon gear, making it a priority.
9. Consider Conquest Points
Even if PvP isn't your thing, Conquest Points can net you 483 gear, like gloves or shoulders, with valuable set bonuses. The Conquest cap (possibly 4,000) allows you to grab a few pieces, complementing your Valor purchases for a stronger pre-raid setup.
10. Prepare Your Alts
If you've got time, level your alts' professions. For example, Alchemists can craft Living Steel for belt buckles, while Inscriptionists can save Scrolls of Wisdom for a bind-on-account 476 staff. This sets your alts up for success when you start raiding or leveling them later.
FAQs About Pre-Raid Preparation in MoP Classic
How long do I have to prepare for raids?
You have about 10 days from launch (July 21) to Mogu'shan Vaults opening (July 31) to hit level 90 and gear up.
Which reputation is most important?
The Tillers is the top priority due to daily crop reputation and Motes of Harmony at Revered.
Can I skip heroics if I have crafted gear?
Crafted gear helps, but heroics are key for 463 epics and Valor Points, which are essential for 489 gear.
How do I get a Darkmoon Faire trinket fastest?
Use Inscription to craft Scrolls of Wisdom, trade cards, or buy them on the Auction House if you're flush with gold.
Are bonus rolls worth rushing?
Yes, having three (or up to nine with resets) bonus rolls for Mogu'shan Vaults can significantly boost your loot chances.
Thanks for Reading
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to tackle Mogu'shan Vaults and beyond. Stay tuned to MMOJUGG for more WoW Classic guides and updates to keep your Pandaria adventure on track!