Warlock aggro?Follow

I'm coming back to WoW after almost a 2-year break. I've only played Hunter and Rogue, and would like to try a caster this time around. I'm debating between Mage and Warlock. I plan to PvP some but that's not my focus.

My question is, most of Warlock's damage comes from DoTs, right? If so, do these create as much aggro as a Mage's burst dmg spells? To me it would seem that a fire mage (that's what I plan to spec if I go mage) would have more problems drawing aggro with big dmg spells than a Lock, who's damage is more spread out.

Which class do ya'll think is more effective in 5-mans? In large-group raids?

Thanks for any input. I know I should play whichever class is more appealing to me and all that, but I'm really torn between them at the moment. I don't want to play both to 20 or 30 or whatever, I know I'll have fun regardless of which class I choose, I'm just looking for some input so I can make a more informed decision.

Sorry for the lengthy post.

When I was destruction, most of my damage came from shadow bolts amped up by the shadow resist debuff curse. Now that I'm affliction, most of my damage comes from dots. I rarely worry/worried about aggro either way (normally grouped with a good tank).

I would think a mage has to watch their aggro as much as a destruction lock would. That is, both have to be mindful of their burst potential and react accordingly, especially at the beginning of a fight. I don't think affliction has to worry quite as much, but realize that you won't be just dotting and waiting for them to wear off. You'll be bolting or draining as well.

I personally don't feel that either is more effective than the other. They both have their uses (warlocks have seduce, health stones, soul stones, mages have sheep, food/water, INT buff) in addition to being damage dealers. One of the main differences is dealing with a pet versus not (although mages have elementals now, so maybe that's a moot point).

Fire mages are probably more squishy than warlocks, but on the other hand can probably deal more damage if they had equal gear. Good luck on your choice!

Opt