My opinion on the safest crafts from this expansion as it pertains to the next 2 years:
Lord Barov, Headmaster Kel'Thuzad,Forest Warden Omu,Soulcioligist Malicia,Lorekeeper Polkelt. The reason for these is that they either solidify, or create an archetype for the class to play for the next two years (for example Soul Fragment Warlock/DH or Malygos Druid).
2
Enjoyable last game with this deck at D5. Got to play C'Thun three times before finally sinking a res Priest. Happy days!
1
Same here.
1
I've found Duels fun so far. I'm much more likely to break up my Standard ladder play with a game of Duels than one of the other modes. I rarely play Arena and Battlegrounds has never appealed.
The new mode also gives me a reason to learn about the older sets. I never had much of an incentive before as I don't play Wild.
Another new game mode coming next year.
1
Played a couple of runs this afternoon after work. It's good fun!
4
In recent times I've tended to amass slightly over 8,000 gold in the 4 months leading up to a new expansion - mostly completing my dailies on ladder. While I suspect I play more than most, I doubt I'm a complete outlier or my experience is too atypical.
Releasing Darkmoon Faire 3 weeks earlier than expected means my pile will be about 1,400 gold or 14 expansion packs lighter. On the upside, we get to play the new content sooner.
Additionally, landing in the mid-diamond ranks most months nets me an additional 8 packs per month (4 SA and 4 classic packs), a sprinkling of dust and gold, and the occasional epic card. I have 5-6 Arena tickets, too, with rewards attached.
HS isn't cheap or overly generous, but I don't mind paying for a game that I play regularly and is being actively developed.
The upcoming game changes sound promising. Let's see.
9
Big fan of DH. Don't main it, but think it's been a great addition to the game. Limited RNG, interesting flavour and good for new or returning players.
Starting HS now is a time-intensive and/or expensive endeavour. It took me the better part of two years to get a halfway decent standard collection. DH allows newbies to play competitive decks without too much difficulty.
1
Picked up Headmaster Kel'Thuzad, Keymaster Alabaster and 2500ish in dust from the bundle.
1
There's no reason one can't be on HearthPwn, Out of Cards and Hearthstone Top Decks, is there?
1
First pre-release bundle I've purchased.
5 legendaries from the 85 packs: Forest Warden Omu (pack 5), Rattlegore (pack 36), Lord Barov (pack 48), Mindrender Illlucia (pack 63) and a golden Speaker Gidra (second-to-last golden pack). 19 epics.
Haven't been particularly keen on Priest, Paladin or Warrior since starting to play in early 2019, but let's see how things turn out!
1
Everyone gets a free legendary and 6 SA packs through quests.