In the upcoming patch 5.3, we’re adding a new “Loot Specialization” option that will give you more control over the loot drops and quest rewards you receive that are based on your class specialization (spec). This includes items obtained through bonus rolls, Raid Finder loot, the Heroic Scenarios coming in patch 5.3, and Mists of Pandaria quests. This new option will allow you to, for example, enter into Raid Finder as a Protection Paladin, but receive loot appropriate for a Holy Paladin.
To change your spec-specific drops, you’ll right-click your character portrait, and select the “Loot Specialization” menu option. The “Default” setting refers to your current spec, and you’ll have the option to choose from any available class specs (e.g. Frost, Fire, or Arcane). This option can be changed at any time you’re able to swap specs, which generally means while out of combat, allowing you to change which spec’s gear you’ll get from each boss within a single raid. Need those healing bracers from Tortos but that DPS off-hand from Megaera? No problem!
Right now, it’s difficult to collect off-spec gear easily, which can make it tough to switch roles if you decide you want to start healing or tanking. This change will allow people to play the specs they’re most comfortable with while collecting loot for another should they want to try out a new role . . . or even fully transition. Going from DPS to tanking or healing—especially when you’ve never done it before—can be daunting, and gathering up the appropriate gear can be a good first step. We want to help make it a more comfortable one.