Blatty
10th March 2012, 20:59
http://i.imgur.com/Jja7a.jpg
Bonjour fellow readers and welcome to Method's Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) Mage Guide !
As you all probably know, mage has been one of the best dps class for years, and great news everyone, it did not change in Cataclysm !
In this guide I will try and cover up the different approaches a mage should chose on each Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) encounter.
Your choice of spec will depend on your raid setup, but keep in mind that Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) is the best spec on every single encounter in Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) 25 man HC except Spine of Deathwing (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53879). So basically, if you are 25 man, and your raid does not have a retribution paladin or a beastmaster hunter in it, you or one of your fellow mage should be playing arcane for 3% Raid Damage boost (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82930). In any other case, just play Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) and enjoy topping the damage meters on every encounter !
Optimal Fire spec 5/33/3 (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Optimal Arcane spec 33/5/3 (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMrRhRroRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Fire opening Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) > Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) > Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) before engage. Then cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), apply Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) and spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) to get 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785).
Arcane opening Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) > Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) before engage. Cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x2, cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), use Presence of Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12043), cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x7 for 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785), use Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) + Arcane Power (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12042), cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x1, use Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), spam Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) until ~35% mana.
General Fire tips
CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) is Mandatory if you want to be optimal with Fire spec. Personnally, I use CombustionHelper version 2.7.16 (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper/534312) that allows me to memorise "TOTAL" numbers (and not just IGNITE) for every situation on every encounter and never fail my Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129).
One important point that a lot of mages seem to be missing is that with 4pt13 (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105790) you HAVE TO FORCE your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) to happen every 1min10, so when your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) CD is about to be ready, you should be hardcasting a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) if you don't have a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445), and get ready to cast Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) right as you see a high enough number on your CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper).
Fire mages have an Execute Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86880). It is very important that you stand still and cast as many Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) as possible during this. You will be able to catch up and top those damage meters if you get lucky enough with crits. Also this is when your last Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) should be cast with Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) and Insignia of the Corrupted Mind's haste proc (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109790).
Most Fire mages don't abuse Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295). Well it's wrong ! As soon as you can have dots on 3 targets, just do it ! It has to become automatic. Print this simple formula in your head : 3 targets = 10% haste.
Fire mages are the fastest to apply 5% Spell Critical Chance (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) debuff on targets (Warlocks have to dot first!), this is why you want to track Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) and open new targets with Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948), hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
It is generally not worth casting Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) on a target if it will die early or become invulnerable before the explosion.
Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) is a DPS LOSS. As soon as you have to use 1 GCD (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=61304) for a non damaging spell, you are losing DPS. Make sure you instead use instant cast DPS spells when you HAVE TO move like Fire Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2136), Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
Always use your Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) CD only when you are moving.
If you have more specific questions make sure to contact me ingame, on our mIRC channel #method @ Quakenet or by PM and I'd be happy to help you !
http://i.imgur.com/ayzrc.png
Optimal Spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Pretty short fight where Mage's utility is usually to soak Crystals (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494). Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) and Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) are very useful here if you don't want to lose dps just running around doing nothing. In a fight like this that requires so much movement, you will only make an impact if you manage your positioning in order to cast more Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) than other mages, so start checking the damage meters at the end and compare with other mages within your guild or on World of Logs (http://worldoflogs.com/rankings/players/Dragon_Soul/dps/) ! Make sure you get inbetween rocks as fast as possible during Black Blood phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103785) and resume casting Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
You should be able to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 2 or 3 times here depending on your raid DPS.
Tips
Use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) after engage without 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) only if your number on CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) is exceptional.
Make sure you have a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dot running when you are about to get gripped for Black Blood phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103785).
Use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) only when thrown in the air after a Crystal (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494) explosion or when moving towards the Crystal (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494) if you don't have Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) up, then resume spamming Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
If able to reach Kohchrom (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57773), keep Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up on both targets and use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) procs on both targets for Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots.
Remember to keep your distance from the boss if you are not supposed to soak Stomps (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108571) with the tank.
http://i.imgur.com/n1oFv.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) or Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRrRRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 5
Summary
Mage's utility in this encounter is usually to soak the Void of the Unmaking on it's own with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949). Otherwise, not being able to spread dots is not optimal for our spec here, so I guess Arcane is still pretty viable with it's high burst on Tentacles. You should be able to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 3 times here.
Tips
Use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) once you have 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785), or wait for the Void of the Unmaking to hit the boss and pray for an insane ignite.
Make sure you have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) running at all times in Tentacles phase for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295).
Use your Healthstone (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6201) if you get dangerously low health in Tentacles phase, as well as Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463), and if you really see yourself about to die with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949) on CD, use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) and ask for heals.
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) on Tentacles that don't have Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873), or open them with a hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) or Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948).
Use Counterspell (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2139) on Eye of Go'rath (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57875), it interrupts their Shadow Gaze (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109391) eventhough you don't see their cast bar.
Always use Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) in direction of the boss, as he takes improved damage.
Move as little as possible when going to soak the Void of the Unmaking, use Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953), and Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) a few times, make sure you just refreshed Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) when you start moving towards the ball, and possibly have a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dot running also.
http://i.imgur.com/9DOIB.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1
Summary
Pretty basic encounter once you figure out how to move as little as possible, and get lucky with Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) ! Your raid should stand inbetween Green (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55862) and Yellow (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55864) for engage here, and stay at maximum range until the first Globules spawn. As a mage, you will only make an impact by doing great Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Forgotten Ones (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56265) here.
Tips
Wait till the Globules spawn, if there is no Black (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55867) or if you have to kill it, use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) within 5-10 seconds so it will be up for the next Globules phase.
Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) from Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) towards the Globule you have to dps down, make sure you apply Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) as an opener, and Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) back to Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) once the CD is up again, move as little as possible, always cast Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
Save your Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) for when you run out of mana with Mana Void (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231), if you still run out of mana during the first spawn, use Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051).
If you still struggle with mana during Mana Voids (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231), switch to Mage Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6117). Don't forget to reswitch to Molten Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30482) once you are comfortable with mana again though.
You can have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295) with Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) + Mana Void (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231) + Globule, so abuse it !
Make sure you DPS Globules until they die because remember, Fire mages have an Execute Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86880) !
Don't wait for a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) proc if you want to Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) the Forgotten Ones (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56265), hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) when they start spawning and build a great Ignite (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12846), then Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) for an Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) and spread as early as possible when they are all stacked up.
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) procs on different targets to have several Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots running.
You should not be using Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) unless you have to apply Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) on a new target in this encounter.
http://i.imgur.com/X7oYc.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1 (25 Man)
Summary
Lots of movement here, you can finally spam Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) without it being a dps loss in Frost phase ! Make sure to have Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) up for Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) if 25 man, or Stunned Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108934) if 10 man ! Mages are awesome for this encounter as their mobility is excellent with Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953), their survival is awesome with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949) and Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438), and their AoE is the best for 25 man Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) !
Tips
Depending on weapon animation, you can guess if it's going to be a frost phase or a lightning phase.
For frost phase, your goal is to have a perfect Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) uptime. Start inbetween Binding Crystals, Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the one farther away, then Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the one you are supposed to dps, and Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) to the next one and cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) on it to trigger Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295).
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) on targets with no Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873), or hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) / use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) on them.
Precast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) when Hagara is about to be Stunned (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108934) at the end of the Frost/Lightning phase and cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731).
Hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) a few seconds before Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) materialize, if you don't have a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445), and start building a great Ignite (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12846) then when Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) pop, Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) them for Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) and spread your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129).
You can use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) while spreading the Lightning Conduit (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109202) to stay alive.
http://i.imgur.com/96CnG.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) or Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRMRRof0bZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Both Arcane and Fire specs are great here. Play Arcane only if your raid is lacking 3% Raid Damage boost (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82930), because Fire is great here for soaking Hour of Twilight (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103327) with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949). Make sure your UI is properly setup so you don't fail those Fading Lights (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=110073) ! As Fire, know that it is possible to get a 1 Million+ damage Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) during the opening here, so never settle for less and trust your instincts (and CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper)) !
Tips
If your guild uses Heroism (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=32182) early, you will want to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) as soon as your have an insanely high number on CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) (my personnal best here for 1M+ Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) was 65k "total" number on CombustionHelper version 2.7.16 (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper/534312)).
Use instant cast spells 1 sec before using Heroic Will (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106108) such as Fire Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2136), Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
Don't cast Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) at any point during this encounter.
You can use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) to soak Hour of Twilight (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103327).
http://i.imgur.com/09DCe.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Probably the hardest encounter in Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892). Playing Fire here helps with survivability, and since there is a lot of movement you don't want to be Arcane here. Make sure you always have Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) running on 3 targets for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295) if you are not comfortable with standing still and spamming Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133). Try to use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) as little as possible because you really want those 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785). You should be able to spread dots if ground adds are being tanked next to one of the Twilight Assault Drakes (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855). You will only make an impact here if you always have dots up and cast more Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) than other mages. The less you move, the better. But really, if you have a near perfect Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) uptime here, you WILL perform.
Tips
Stand on top of the cabin and on the ledge, open with Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) and Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) before engage, then cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) on the Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) and on its rider, then jump down and cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the other Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) that comes by.
If melee adds are being tanked next to a gripped drake (hopefully they are!) try and Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) early there if you get a huge number, if not, wait for 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) and do this with the next set of adds.
It is important here that you are able to spread a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from a Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) to the two ground adds or vice versa.
You can soak Twilight Barrages (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109204) on your own with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949), but do this at your own risk!
Spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) at all times, you need to get those 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) back as fast as possible if you want to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 4 times here.
Make sure you Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) dots (including a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from Goriona (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56781) to Warmaster Blackhorn (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56427), use Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) to get more chances at getting an Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357).
Try to have Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots running on multiple targets when you can.
You can Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) the Consumming Shroud (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=110598) debuff cast by Goriona (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56781) in phase 2.
If somehow you get silenced by Warmaster Blackhorn (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56427), cast Frostfire Balls (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44614) !
http://i.imgur.com/Dr5wX.png
Optimal spec Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRrRRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 5-8
Summary
Pretty easy encounter if you have the correct macros. Arcane mages (even Fire mage with the correct opener) are totally awesome for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341). Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) and Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) are very important here, make sure you bind those spells ! There should be no movement here besides for when you have to Barrel Roll, so make sure you stand still all the time and spam Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451). DPS control is very important here on Corruptions (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56161), since Arcane spec is awesome for breaking Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490), you will have to understand the mechanics here. Breaking a Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490) usually requires DPSing between 18-24% of their max hp's (4 grips per Corruption). As a mage you can also keep the balance on Deathwing (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53879)'s back : have all your raid stand on one side and you alone on the other, and when everyone is ready just Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) on the other side to force a Barrel Roll.
Macros
#1
/cancelaura Parachute
#2
/targetexact Burning Tendons
#3
/cast [target=focus] Arcane Blast
#4
/assist
First macro cancels your parachute early on so you can start dpsing faster.
Second macro is to make sure you don't waste any time selecting the Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341).
Third macro is mandatory for breaking Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490), just put the Corruption (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56161) on focus and voilŕ !
Fourth macro is great if you have trouble targeting the Hideous Amalgamation (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53890) when your platform is submerged by Corrupted Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53889), personally I just /assist one of the great melee DPS in the raid they usually target them pretty quick !
Optimal opener for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341)
Make sure you have 4 Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) stacks when Hideous Amalgamation (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53890) is about to explode, have Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) up for the first explosion, then use Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) before the second to refresh Incanter's Absorption (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44395), precast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) towards the Armored Plate, pop Presence of Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12043) and Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) the Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) quickly enough so you don't lose your 4 stacks.
Tips
Maximizing your Arcane Power (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12042) uses is key here. Use it as soon as you have 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) but make sure you have it ready for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341).
Mana management is crucial as Arcane, so if you are not using Shard of Woe (http://www.wowhead.com/item=60233), make sure you have Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) up after Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) burst, because you don't want to spend 1 minute with 40% mana.
Whenever Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) is up, you should be low mana and use it, if not, you're doing it wrong!
Use Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) + Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) when getting Grasping Tendrils (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109456) before Barrel Rolls.
Target anything in sight and cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) to make sure you don't lose your 4 stacks before Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341), if you get aggro use Invisibility (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=66).
Make sure you don't lose your 10 stacks of Combat Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109795), don't hesitate to use instant casts like Arcane Explosion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1449) if the buff is about to fade.
Save Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) for the last Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) to maximise your survivability with all those Corrupted Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53889) running around everywhere.
http://i.imgur.com/d6hZe.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1
Summary
Very long fight that requires heavy mana management. Your overall DPS will be higher depending on your raid setup, and also on how much you know how to DPS whore ! Remember, to really make an impact here, you have to understand how Spellweave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106043) works, so don't slack on those Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263) !
Tips
Open with Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) > Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) > Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) before the Limb Tentacle appears then just apply Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) and spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
Make sure you are close to where you are supposed to stand during the whole period the Mutated Corruption (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56471) is up so you don't have to move too much to get there.
Try to save a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) as opener for Elementium Bolts (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105651) and Corrupting Parasites (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57479).
Whenever you can have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up to trigger Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295), do it !
When Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263) spawn, you will want to start building your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on them a few seconds before Corrupting Parasite (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57479) spawns (hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) if necessary then Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from Bloods to the Parasite and for maximum whoring you can just Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) everything down after that)
Depending on how early you use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263), you might be able to squeeze the next one during the Cataclysm (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106523) phase. If not, just use it after you jumped to the next platform.
In phase 2, precast a Flamestrike (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2120) when Congealing Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109102) are about to spawn (you see the fiery animation on the ground) then you just want to use Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) on them, as it procs Spellweave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106043) faster than anything else you could do (yes it's true!)
Use Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) as soon as it's up, use Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) every 4 minutes meaning you should use it 3 times during this fight and summon new Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) once.
If somehow you are still low on mana (remember Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) drains your mana really fast so make sure you don't waste a cast), use Mage Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6117) while switching to different platforms, then switch back to Molten Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30482).
Bonjour fellow readers and welcome to Method's Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) Mage Guide !
As you all probably know, mage has been one of the best dps class for years, and great news everyone, it did not change in Cataclysm !
In this guide I will try and cover up the different approaches a mage should chose on each Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) encounter.
Your choice of spec will depend on your raid setup, but keep in mind that Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) is the best spec on every single encounter in Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892) 25 man HC except Spine of Deathwing (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53879). So basically, if you are 25 man, and your raid does not have a retribution paladin or a beastmaster hunter in it, you or one of your fellow mage should be playing arcane for 3% Raid Damage boost (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82930). In any other case, just play Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) and enjoy topping the damage meters on every encounter !
Optimal Fire spec 5/33/3 (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Optimal Arcane spec 33/5/3 (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMrRhRroRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Fire opening Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) > Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) > Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) before engage. Then cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), apply Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) and spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) to get 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785).
Arcane opening Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) > Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) before engage. Cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x2, cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), use Presence of Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12043), cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x7 for 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785), use Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) + Arcane Power (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12042), cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451)x1, use Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), spam Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) until ~35% mana.
General Fire tips
CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) is Mandatory if you want to be optimal with Fire spec. Personnally, I use CombustionHelper version 2.7.16 (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper/534312) that allows me to memorise "TOTAL" numbers (and not just IGNITE) for every situation on every encounter and never fail my Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129).
One important point that a lot of mages seem to be missing is that with 4pt13 (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105790) you HAVE TO FORCE your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) to happen every 1min10, so when your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) CD is about to be ready, you should be hardcasting a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) if you don't have a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445), and get ready to cast Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) right as you see a high enough number on your CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper).
Fire mages have an Execute Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86880). It is very important that you stand still and cast as many Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) as possible during this. You will be able to catch up and top those damage meters if you get lucky enough with crits. Also this is when your last Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) should be cast with Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) and Insignia of the Corrupted Mind's haste proc (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109790).
Most Fire mages don't abuse Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295). Well it's wrong ! As soon as you can have dots on 3 targets, just do it ! It has to become automatic. Print this simple formula in your head : 3 targets = 10% haste.
Fire mages are the fastest to apply 5% Spell Critical Chance (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) debuff on targets (Warlocks have to dot first!), this is why you want to track Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) and open new targets with Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948), hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
It is generally not worth casting Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) on a target if it will die early or become invulnerable before the explosion.
Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) is a DPS LOSS. As soon as you have to use 1 GCD (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=61304) for a non damaging spell, you are losing DPS. Make sure you instead use instant cast DPS spells when you HAVE TO move like Fire Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2136), Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
Always use your Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) CD only when you are moving.
If you have more specific questions make sure to contact me ingame, on our mIRC channel #method @ Quakenet or by PM and I'd be happy to help you !
http://i.imgur.com/ayzrc.png
Optimal Spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Pretty short fight where Mage's utility is usually to soak Crystals (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494). Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) and Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) are very useful here if you don't want to lose dps just running around doing nothing. In a fight like this that requires so much movement, you will only make an impact if you manage your positioning in order to cast more Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) than other mages, so start checking the damage meters at the end and compare with other mages within your guild or on World of Logs (http://worldoflogs.com/rankings/players/Dragon_Soul/dps/) ! Make sure you get inbetween rocks as fast as possible during Black Blood phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103785) and resume casting Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
You should be able to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 2 or 3 times here depending on your raid DPS.
Tips
Use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) after engage without 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) only if your number on CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) is exceptional.
Make sure you have a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dot running when you are about to get gripped for Black Blood phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103785).
Use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) only when thrown in the air after a Crystal (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494) explosion or when moving towards the Crystal (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103494) if you don't have Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) up, then resume spamming Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
If able to reach Kohchrom (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57773), keep Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up on both targets and use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) procs on both targets for Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots.
Remember to keep your distance from the boss if you are not supposed to soak Stomps (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108571) with the tank.
http://i.imgur.com/n1oFv.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) or Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRrRRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 5
Summary
Mage's utility in this encounter is usually to soak the Void of the Unmaking on it's own with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949). Otherwise, not being able to spread dots is not optimal for our spec here, so I guess Arcane is still pretty viable with it's high burst on Tentacles. You should be able to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 3 times here.
Tips
Use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) once you have 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785), or wait for the Void of the Unmaking to hit the boss and pray for an insane ignite.
Make sure you have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) running at all times in Tentacles phase for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295).
Use your Healthstone (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6201) if you get dangerously low health in Tentacles phase, as well as Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463), and if you really see yourself about to die with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949) on CD, use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) and ask for heals.
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) on Tentacles that don't have Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873), or open them with a hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) or Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948).
Use Counterspell (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2139) on Eye of Go'rath (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57875), it interrupts their Shadow Gaze (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109391) eventhough you don't see their cast bar.
Always use Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) in direction of the boss, as he takes improved damage.
Move as little as possible when going to soak the Void of the Unmaking, use Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953), and Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) a few times, make sure you just refreshed Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) when you start moving towards the ball, and possibly have a Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dot running also.
http://i.imgur.com/9DOIB.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1
Summary
Pretty basic encounter once you figure out how to move as little as possible, and get lucky with Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) ! Your raid should stand inbetween Green (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55862) and Yellow (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55864) for engage here, and stay at maximum range until the first Globules spawn. As a mage, you will only make an impact by doing great Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Forgotten Ones (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56265) here.
Tips
Wait till the Globules spawn, if there is no Black (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55867) or if you have to kill it, use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) within 5-10 seconds so it will be up for the next Globules phase.
Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) from Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) towards the Globule you have to dps down, make sure you apply Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) as an opener, and Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) back to Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) once the CD is up again, move as little as possible, always cast Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
Save your Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) for when you run out of mana with Mana Void (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231), if you still run out of mana during the first spawn, use Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051).
If you still struggle with mana during Mana Voids (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231), switch to Mage Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6117). Don't forget to reswitch to Molten Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30482) once you are comfortable with mana again though.
You can have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295) with Yor'Sahj (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=55312) + Mana Void (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56231) + Globule, so abuse it !
Make sure you DPS Globules until they die because remember, Fire mages have an Execute Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86880) !
Don't wait for a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) proc if you want to Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) the Forgotten Ones (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56265), hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) when they start spawning and build a great Ignite (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12846), then Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) for an Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) and spread as early as possible when they are all stacked up.
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) procs on different targets to have several Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots running.
You should not be using Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) unless you have to apply Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873) on a new target in this encounter.
http://i.imgur.com/X7oYc.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1 (25 Man)
Summary
Lots of movement here, you can finally spam Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) without it being a dps loss in Frost phase ! Make sure to have Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) up for Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) if 25 man, or Stunned Phase (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108934) if 10 man ! Mages are awesome for this encounter as their mobility is excellent with Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953), their survival is awesome with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949) and Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438), and their AoE is the best for 25 man Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) !
Tips
Depending on weapon animation, you can guess if it's going to be a frost phase or a lightning phase.
For frost phase, your goal is to have a perfect Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) uptime. Start inbetween Binding Crystals, Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the one farther away, then Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the one you are supposed to dps, and Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) to the next one and cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) on it to trigger Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295).
Use Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) on targets with no Critical Mass (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12873), or hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) / use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) on them.
Precast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) when Hagara is about to be Stunned (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=108934) at the end of the Frost/Lightning phase and cast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731).
Hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) a few seconds before Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) materialize, if you don't have a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445), and start building a great Ignite (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12846) then when Ice Tombs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=70157) pop, Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) them for Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) and spread your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129).
You can use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) while spreading the Lightning Conduit (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109202) to stay alive.
http://i.imgur.com/96CnG.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0) or Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRMRRof0bZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Both Arcane and Fire specs are great here. Play Arcane only if your raid is lacking 3% Raid Damage boost (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82930), because Fire is great here for soaking Hour of Twilight (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103327) with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949). Make sure your UI is properly setup so you don't fail those Fading Lights (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=110073) ! As Fire, know that it is possible to get a 1 Million+ damage Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) during the opening here, so never settle for less and trust your instincts (and CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper)) !
Tips
If your guild uses Heroism (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=32182) early, you will want to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) as soon as your have an insanely high number on CombustionHelper (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper) (my personnal best here for 1M+ Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) was 65k "total" number on CombustionHelper version 2.7.16 (http://www.curse.com/addons/wow/combustionhelper/534312)).
Use instant cast spells 1 sec before using Heroic Will (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106108) such as Fire Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2136), Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731), Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342), Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) or Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445).
Don't cast Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) at any point during this encounter.
You can use Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) to soak Hour of Twilight (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=103327).
http://i.imgur.com/09DCe.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 3
Summary
Probably the hardest encounter in Dragon Soul (http://www.wowhead.com/zone=5892). Playing Fire here helps with survivability, and since there is a lot of movement you don't want to be Arcane here. Make sure you always have Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) running on 3 targets for Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295) if you are not comfortable with standing still and spamming Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133). Try to use Scorch (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2948) as little as possible because you really want those 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785). You should be able to spread dots if ground adds are being tanked next to one of the Twilight Assault Drakes (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855). You will only make an impact here if you always have dots up and cast more Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) than other mages. The less you move, the better. But really, if you have a near perfect Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) uptime here, you WILL perform.
Tips
Stand on top of the cabin and on the ledge, open with Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) and Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) before engage, then cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) on the Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) and on its rider, then jump down and cast Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) the other Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) that comes by.
If melee adds are being tanked next to a gripped drake (hopefully they are!) try and Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) early there if you get a huge number, if not, wait for 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) and do this with the next set of adds.
It is important here that you are able to spread a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from a Twilight Assault Drake (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56855) to the two ground adds or vice versa.
You can soak Twilight Barrages (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109204) on your own with Cauterize (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=86949), but do this at your own risk!
Spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133) at all times, you need to get those 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) back as fast as possible if you want to use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) 4 times here.
Make sure you Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) dots (including a Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from Goriona (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56781) to Warmaster Blackhorn (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56427), use Blast Wave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11113) to get more chances at getting an Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357).
Try to have Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) dots running on multiple targets when you can.
You can Ice Block (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=45438) the Consumming Shroud (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=110598) debuff cast by Goriona (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56781) in phase 2.
If somehow you get silenced by Warmaster Blackhorn (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56427), cast Frostfire Balls (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44614) !
http://i.imgur.com/Dr5wX.png
Optimal spec Arcane (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#ohIMMRhRrRRofZc:s0VM0zV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 5-8
Summary
Pretty easy encounter if you have the correct macros. Arcane mages (even Fire mage with the correct opener) are totally awesome for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341). Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) and Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) are very important here, make sure you bind those spells ! There should be no movement here besides for when you have to Barrel Roll, so make sure you stand still all the time and spam Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451). DPS control is very important here on Corruptions (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56161), since Arcane spec is awesome for breaking Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490), you will have to understand the mechanics here. Breaking a Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490) usually requires DPSing between 18-24% of their max hp's (4 grips per Corruption). As a mage you can also keep the balance on Deathwing (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53879)'s back : have all your raid stand on one side and you alone on the other, and when everyone is ready just Blink (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1953) on the other side to force a Barrel Roll.
Macros
#1
/cancelaura Parachute
#2
/targetexact Burning Tendons
#3
/cast [target=focus] Arcane Blast
#4
/assist
First macro cancels your parachute early on so you can start dpsing faster.
Second macro is to make sure you don't waste any time selecting the Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341).
Third macro is mandatory for breaking Fiery Grips (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105490), just put the Corruption (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56161) on focus and voilŕ !
Fourth macro is great if you have trouble targeting the Hideous Amalgamation (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53890) when your platform is submerged by Corrupted Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53889), personally I just /assist one of the great melee DPS in the raid they usually target them pretty quick !
Optimal opener for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341)
Make sure you have 4 Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) stacks when Hideous Amalgamation (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53890) is about to explode, have Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) up for the first explosion, then use Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) before the second to refresh Incanter's Absorption (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44395), precast Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) towards the Armored Plate, pop Presence of Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12043) and Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) the Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) quickly enough so you don't lose your 4 stacks.
Tips
Maximizing your Arcane Power (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12042) uses is key here. Use it as soon as you have 10 stacks of Stolen Time (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105785) but make sure you have it ready for Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341).
Mana management is crucial as Arcane, so if you are not using Shard of Woe (http://www.wowhead.com/item=60233), make sure you have Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) up after Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) burst, because you don't want to spend 1 minute with 40% mana.
Whenever Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) is up, you should be low mana and use it, if not, you're doing it wrong!
Use Mana Shield (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1463) + Mage Ward (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=543) when getting Grasping Tendrils (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109456) before Barrel Rolls.
Target anything in sight and cast Arcane Blast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30451) to make sure you don't lose your 4 stacks before Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341), if you get aggro use Invisibility (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=66).
Make sure you don't lose your 10 stacks of Combat Mind (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109795), don't hesitate to use instant casts like Arcane Explosion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=1449) if the buff is about to fade.
Save Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) for the last Burning Tendons (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56341) to maximise your survivability with all those Corrupted Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=53889) running around everywhere.
http://i.imgur.com/d6hZe.png
Optimal spec Fire (http://www.wowhead.com/talent#obhZfchrk0RRsfoc:zocMzsV0)
Estimated DPS ranking TOP 1
Summary
Very long fight that requires heavy mana management. Your overall DPS will be higher depending on your raid setup, and also on how much you know how to DPS whore ! Remember, to really make an impact here, you have to understand how Spellweave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106043) works, so don't slack on those Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263) !
Tips
Open with Mirror Image (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=55342) > Flame Orb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=82731) > Volcanic Potion (http://www.wowhead.com/item=58091) before the Limb Tentacle appears then just apply Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) and spam Fireballs (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=133).
Make sure you are close to where you are supposed to stand during the whole period the Mutated Corruption (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56471) is up so you don't have to move too much to get there.
Try to save a Hot Streak (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44445) as opener for Elementium Bolts (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=105651) and Corrupting Parasites (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57479).
Whenever you can have 3 Living Bomb (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=44457) up to trigger Pyromaniac (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=34295), do it !
When Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263) spawn, you will want to start building your Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on them a few seconds before Corrupting Parasite (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=57479) spawns (hardcast Pyroblast (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=92315) if necessary then Impact (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12357) Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) from Bloods to the Parasite and for maximum whoring you can just Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) everything down after that)
Depending on how early you use Combustion (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=11129) on Regenerative Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/npc=56263), you might be able to squeeze the next one during the Cataclysm (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106523) phase. If not, just use it after you jumped to the next platform.
In phase 2, precast a Flamestrike (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=2120) when Congealing Bloods (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=109102) are about to spawn (you see the fiery animation on the ground) then you just want to use Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) on them, as it procs Spellweave (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=106043) faster than anything else you could do (yes it's true!)
Use Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) as soon as it's up, use Evocation (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=12051) every 4 minutes meaning you should use it 3 times during this fight and summon new Mana Gem (http://www.wowhead.com/item=36799) once.
If somehow you are still low on mana (remember Blizzard (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=10) drains your mana really fast so make sure you don't waste a cast), use Mage Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=6117) while switching to different platforms, then switch back to Molten Armor (http://www.wowhead.com/spell=30482).