Frustrated with Pugging as a New Tank – Could Use Some Advice /u/Verauduna World of Warcraft

Hey folks,

I’ve recently started playing WoW (on EU servers) and fell completely in love with Blood Death Knights. Something about being this vampiric tank just feels so badass! That said, I’m still pretty new to the game and tanking in general, but I’ve been working hard and feel like I’ve been doing pretty well so far.

Right now, I’m sitting at 2430 IO and aiming for 3k this season. The problem? Pugging. It’s such a mixed bag – I’ve had some decent groups, but so many are just straight-up toxic, and it’s draining. Even when things go fine, the anxiety of dealing with blame or criticism (even when I know I’m doing my best) makes it hard to enjoy the game.

My husband (a Havoc DH who’s been playing since Legion) and I try to run keys together, but we both feel stuck. I don’t have a guild focused on Mythic+, and most of our friends aren’t into keys, so pugging is our only option right now.

I’d love to hear how other tanks out there have managed to push through this frustration. How do you stay confident? Any tips on finding good groups or dealing with toxic players? And to the healers reading this – what makes a tank enjoyable to play with in your eyes?

I know I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m determined to improve and keep pushing myself. Thanks for reading, and I’d really appreciate your advice or stories!

Hey folks,

I’ve recently started playing WoW (on EU servers) and fell completely in love with Blood Death Knights. Something about being this vampiric tank just feels so badass! That said, I’m still pretty new to the game and tanking in general, but I’ve been working hard and feel like I’ve been doing pretty well so far.

Right now, I’m sitting at 2430 IO and aiming for 3k this season. The problem? Pugging. It’s such a mixed bag – I’ve had some decent groups, but so many are just straight-up toxic, and it’s draining. Even when things go fine, the anxiety of dealing with blame or criticism (even when I know I’m doing my best) makes it hard to enjoy the game.

My husband (a Havoc DH who’s been playing since Legion) and I try to run keys together, but we both feel stuck. I don’t have a guild focused on Mythic+, and most of our friends aren’t into keys, so pugging is our only option right now.

I’d love to hear how other tanks out there have managed to push through this frustration. How do you stay confident? Any tips on finding good groups or dealing with toxic players? And to the healers reading this – what makes a tank enjoyable to play with in your eyes?

I know I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m determined to improve and keep pushing myself. Thanks for reading, and I’d really appreciate your advice or stories!