Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Bruiser · Warcraft

Ragnaros

The Firelord

Role
Bruiser
Attack
Melee
Difficulty
Medium
Released
14 Dec 2016
Last patched
28 Sep 2026
Damage
8/10
Utility
7/10
Survivability
8/10
Complexity
7/10

Ragnaros is strong against

Score 1–100 for Ragnaros's net edge once both kits are weighed (50 = neutral)

  1. Murky Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedEmpower Sulfuras' instant area hit and Living Meteor's roll take huge chunks of Murky's 730 Health and pop Pufferfish before it detonates, and Ragnaros' fast waveclear blunts Murky's lane pressure.via Empower Sulfuras, Living Meteor, Pufferfish
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Murky's side-lane pressure.
    • TheoryRagnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Murky's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
    • TheoryRagnaros clears waves quickly (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave), so Murky's lane pressure buys less.
    • TheoryMurky deals damage based on maximum Health (Wrath of Cod), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Murky takes Wrath of Cod.
  2. The Lost Vikings Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedLava Wave travels the length of a lane, instantly killing its minions and dealing double damage to Heroes, so a lone low-Health Viking soaking that lane loses the wave and often its life. Only when Ragnaros takes Lava Wave (level 10).via Lava Wave
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer The Lost Vikings's side-lane pressure.
    • TheoryRagnaros clears waves quickly (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave), so The Lost Vikings's lane pressure buys less.
    • TheoryThe Lost Vikings deals damage based on maximum Health (Nordic Attack Squad), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest.
  3. Sgt. Hammer Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedA sieging Sgt. Hammer cannot step aside without Thrusters cancelling Siege Mode (unless she has Hover Siege Mode at level 7), so Living Meteor's roll hits her for its full duration, and Molten Core turns the Fort she is shelling into a 5000-Health Ragnaros.via Living Meteor, Molten Core, Siege Mode, Thrusters
  4. Zagara Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedMolten Core turns a threatened Fort or Keep into a long-range Ragnaros whose Meteor Shower and Molten Swing wipe Roachlings and Hunter Killers, stalling the summon-led siege Zagara relies on. Only when Ragnaros is defending structures rather than fighting in the open.via Molten Core, Meteor Shower, Molten Swing, Infested Drop, Hunter Killer
    • TheoryRagnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Zagara's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryZagara deals damage based on maximum Health (Corrosive Saliva), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Zagara takes Corrosive Saliva.
    • TheoryZagara can interrupt channels with stun (Devouring Maw), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zagara takes Devouring Maw.
  5. Abathur Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Abathur's side-lane pressure.
    • TheoryRagnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Abathur's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryRagnaros clears waves quickly (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave), so Abathur's lane pressure buys less.
  6. Samuro Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Samuro's side-lane pressure.
    • TheoryRagnaros clears waves quickly (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
View 2 more
  1. Azmodan 65 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Azmodan's summoned units quickly.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros can interrupt channels with stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing), and Azmodan relies on channelled abilities.
  2. Li Li 65 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Li Li's summoned units quickly.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros can interrupt channels with stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing), and Li Li relies on channelled abilities.
18 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Nova 63 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  2. Xul 62 Theory Ragnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Xul's side-lane pressure.
  3. Genji 61 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Genji's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  4. Zeratul 61 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Zeratul's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  5. Jaina 60 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Jaina's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  6. Li-Ming 60 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Li-Ming's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  7. Kerrigan 58 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Kerrigan's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  8. Dehaka 57 Theory Ragnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Dehaka's side-lane pressure.
  9. Whitemane 57 Theory Ragnaros can interrupt channels with stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing), and Whitemane relies on channelled abilities.
  10. Alarak 56 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Alarak's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  11. Junkrat 56 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Junkrat's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  12. Nazeebo 56 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Nazeebo's summoned units quickly.
  13. Greymane 55 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) can stop Greymane in the middle of a dive.
  14. Kharazim 55 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) can stop Kharazim in the middle of a dive.
  15. Probius 54 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Probius's summoned units quickly.
  16. Xal'atath 54 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Xal'atath's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.
  17. Sylvanas 53 Theory Ragnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) helps answer Sylvanas's side-lane pressure.
  18. Tracer 52 Theory Ragnaros can deny a burst window (Submerge), wasting Tracer's cooldowns. Only when Ragnaros takes Submerge.

Ragnaros is weak against

Score 1–100 for their net edge over Ragnaros's kit

  1. Ana Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedRagnaros sustains through Empower Sulfuras' lifesteal; Biotic Grenade shuts off all healing for a moment, and Sleep Dart takes him out of a fight because he has no cleanse or Unstoppable.via Biotic Grenade, Sleep Dart, Empower Sulfuras
    • TheoryAna reduces healing received (Biotic Grenade), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range.
    • TheoryAna deals damage based on maximum Health (Night Terrors), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Ana takes Night Terrors.
    • TheoryAna can interrupt channels with stun (Sleep Dart), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  2. Malthael Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedReaper's Mark burns 2% of Ragnaros' max Health every second no matter how much Empower Sulfuras heals him back, and Soul Rip heals Malthael off him; Ragnaros has no way to shed the marks.via Reaper's Mark, Soul Rip, Empower Sulfuras
    • TheoryMalthael deals damage based on maximum Health (Reaper's Mark, Throwing Shade), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest.
    • TheoryMalthael reduces healing received (Touch of Death), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Malthael takes Touch of Death.
  3. Valla Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedVault and Hatred's Movement Speed let Valla kite a dash-less Ragnaros, whose only speed boost is Blast Wave.via Vault, Hatred, Blast Wave
    • TheoryValla deals damage based on maximum Health (Manticore), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Valla takes Manticore.
    • TheoryValla can interrupt channels with stun (Rain of Vengeance), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities. Only when Valla takes Rain of Vengeance.
  4. Raynor Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedPenetrating Round knocks back harder at close range and slows, so a dash-less melee like Ragnaros, whose only speed boost is Blast Wave, struggles to stay on Raynor while Adrenaline Rush out-sustains him.via Penetrating Round, Adrenaline Rush, Blast Wave
    • TheoryRaynor deals damage based on maximum Health (Bounty Hunter), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Raynor takes Bounty Hunter.
  5. Tychus Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedMinigun's bonus damage is a share of max Health, so Molten Core's 5000-Health form melts quickly to Tychus, and out of it Ragnaros' dash-less kit struggles to stay on him.via Minigun, Molten Core
    • TheoryTychus deals damage based on maximum Health (Minigun, Titan Grenade), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest.
    • TheoryRagnaros can interrupt channels with stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing), and Tychus relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryRagnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Tychus's summoned units quickly. Only when Tychus takes Drakken Laser Drill.
  6. Leoric Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryLeoric deals damage based on maximum Health (Drain Hope, Crushing Hope), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest.
    • TheoryLeoric can interrupt channels with silence (Buried Alive), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities. Only when Leoric takes Buried Alive.
View 7 more
  1. Stitches 69 Theory Stitches deals damage based on maximum Health (Serrated Edge), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Stitches takes Serrated Edge.
    2 more reasons
    • Stitches reduces healing received (Master Hooker), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Stitches takes Master Hooker.
    • Stitches can interrupt channels with stun (Gorge), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities. Only when Stitches takes Gorge.
  2. Varian 69 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
    2 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • Varian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  3. Gazlowe 66 Theory Gazlowe deals damage based on maximum Health (Hyperfocus Coils, Overklock), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Gazlowe takes Hyperfocus Coils or Overklock.
    1 more reason
    • Gazlowe can interrupt channels with stun (Xplodium Charge, Grav-O-Bomb 3000), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  4. Hogger 66 Theory Hogger deals damage based on maximum Health (Headbanger), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Hogger takes Headbanger.
    1 more reason
    • Hogger can interrupt channels with stun (Staggering Blow, Shockwave), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  5. Tyrande 66 Theory Tyrande deals damage based on maximum Health (Empower), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Tyrande takes Empower.
    1 more reason
    • Tyrande can interrupt channels with stun (Lunar Flare), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  6. Cho'gall 65 Theory Cho'gall deals damage based on maximum Health (Uppercut, Searing Shadows), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Cho'gall takes Uppercut or Searing Shadows.
    1 more reason
    • Cho'gall reduces healing received (Enraged Regeneration), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Cho'gall takes Enraged Regeneration.
  7. D.Va 65 Theory D.Va deals damage based on maximum Health (Rush-down), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when D.Va takes Rush-down.
    1 more reason
    • D.Va reduces healing received (Aggression Matrix), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when D.Va takes Aggression Matrix.
30 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Rehgar 65 Theory Rehgar deals damage based on maximum Health (Hunger of the Wolf), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Rehgar takes Hunger of the Wolf.
  2. Garrosh 63 Theory Garrosh can interrupt channels with stun (Groundbreaker, Warbreaker), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  3. Yrel 62 Theory Yrel deals damage based on maximum Health (Templar's Verdict), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Yrel takes Templar's Verdict.
  4. Sonya 61 Theory Sonya deals damage based on maximum Health (Giant Slammer), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Sonya takes Giant Slammer.
  5. The Butcher 61 Theory The Butcher deals damage based on maximum Health (Savage Charge), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when The Butcher takes Savage Charge.
  6. Kael'thas 60 Theory Kael'thas deals damage based on maximum Health (Burned Flesh), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Kael'thas takes Burned Flesh.
  7. Lúcio 60 Theory Lúcio reduces healing received (Mixing Fire), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Lúcio takes Mixing Fire.
  8. Cassia 59 Theory Cassia deals damage based on maximum Health (Martial Law), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Cassia takes Martial Law.
  9. Lunara 59 Theory Lunara deals damage based on maximum Health (Invigorating Spores), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Lunara takes Invigorating Spores.
  10. Illidan 58 Theory Illidan deals damage based on maximum Health (Fiery Brand), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Illidan takes Fiery Brand.
  11. Maiev 58 Theory Maiev deals damage based on maximum Health (Vengeful Knives), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Maiev takes Vengeful Knives.
  12. Thrall 58 Theory Thrall deals damage based on maximum Health (Rolling Thunder, Alpha Wolf), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Thrall takes Rolling Thunder or Alpha Wolf.
  13. Brightwing 57 Theory Brightwing can interrupt channels with silence (Polymorph, Hush!), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  14. Deathwing 57 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  15. Diablo 57 Theory Diablo can interrupt channels with stun (Shadow Charge, Overpower), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  16. Johanna 57 Theory Johanna can interrupt channels with stun (Condemn, Falling Sword), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  17. Mei 57 Theory Mei can interrupt channels with stun (Blizzard, Avalanche), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  18. Muradin 57 Theory Muradin can interrupt channels with stun (Storm Bolt, Haymaker), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  19. Orphea 57 Theory Orphea deals damage based on maximum Health (Bond of Anguish), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Orphea takes Bond of Anguish.
  20. Uther 57 Theory Uther can interrupt channels with stun (Hammer of Justice, Divine Storm), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  21. Deckard 56 Theory Deckard reduces healing received (Emerald), which blunts Ragnaros's self-healing in melee range. Only when Deckard takes Emerald.
  22. Artanis 54 Theory Artanis deals damage based on maximum Health (Titan Killer), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Artanis takes Titan Killer.
  23. Mephisto 54 Theory Mephisto deals damage based on maximum Health (Static Field), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Mephisto takes Static Field.
  24. Fenix 52 Theory Fenix deals damage based on maximum Health (Offensive Cadence), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Fenix takes Offensive Cadence.
  25. Lt. Morales 52 Theory Lt. Morales deals damage based on maximum Health (Bedside Manner), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Lt. Morales takes Bedside Manner.
  26. Qhira 52 Theory Qhira can interrupt channels with stun (Revolving Sweep, Unrelenting Strikes), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  27. Valeera 52 Theory Valeera can interrupt channels with stun (Blade Flurry), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  28. Zul'jin 52 Theory Zul'jin deals damage based on maximum Health (No Mercy!), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Zul'jin takes No Mercy!.
  29. Chromie 51 Theory Chromie can interrupt channels with Time Stop (Time Trap, Chronic Conditions), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  30. Kel'Thuzad 51 Theory Kel'Thuzad can interrupt channels with stun (Chains of Kel'Thuzad, Chains of Ice), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.

Ragnaros works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Jaina Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedRing of Frost roots enemies for 3 seconds, holding them in place for Sulfuras Smash's 594-damage center and stun. Only when Jaina takes Ring of Frost (level 10), and Ragnaros takes Sulfuras Smash (level 10).via Ring of Frost, Sulfuras Smash
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Jaina's burst.
  2. Zarya Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedGraviton Surge drags enemies to one point for 2.5 seconds, so Living Meteor's roll, and Sulfuras Smash's center if Ragnaros takes it, hit several Heroes at once. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Sulfuras Smash, Living Meteor
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  3. E.T.C. Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedMosh Pit stuns everything nearby for 4 seconds, long enough for Living Meteor's full roll and, if Ragnaros takes it, a Sulfuras Smash center hit on helpless targets. Only when E.T.C. takes Mosh Pit (level 10).via Mosh Pit, Living Meteor, Sulfuras Smash
  4. Kerrigan Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryKerrigan groups or freezes enemies (Primal Grasp) for Ragnaros's area damage.
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Kerrigan's burst.
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Kerrigan dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  5. Zeratul Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Zeratul's burst.
    • TheoryZeratul groups or freezes enemies (Void Prison) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Zeratul takes Void Prison.
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Zeratul dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  6. Chromie Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryChromie groups or freezes enemies (Time Trap, Chronic Conditions) for Ragnaros's area damage.
    • TheoryRagnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Chromie's burst.
View 5 more
  1. Kel'Thuzad 75 Theory Kel'Thuzad groups or freezes enemies (Chains of Kel'Thuzad) for Ragnaros's area damage.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Kel'Thuzad's burst.
  2. Dehaka 73 Theory Dehaka groups or freezes enemies (Drag) for Ragnaros's area damage.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Dehaka pressures a side lane.
  3. Maiev 71 Theory Maiev groups or freezes enemies (Umbral Bind) for Ragnaros's area damage.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Maiev dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  4. Murky 71 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Murky's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Murky pressures a side lane.
  5. Orphea 70 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Orphea's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Orphea groups or freezes enemies (Crushing Jaws) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Orphea takes Crushing Jaws.
33 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Tassadar 70 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Tassadar's burst.
  2. Genji 69 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Genji's burst.
  3. Tracer 69 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Tracer's burst.
  4. Valeera 69 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Valeera's burst.
  5. Sylvanas 68 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Sylvanas pressures a side lane.
  6. Cho'gall 65 Theory Cho'gall groups or freezes enemies (Upheaval) for Ragnaros's area damage.
  7. Johanna 65 Theory Johanna groups or freezes enemies (Condemn) for Ragnaros's area damage.
  8. Stitches 65 Theory Stitches groups or freezes enemies (Hook) for Ragnaros's area damage.
  9. Alarak 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Alarak's burst.
  10. Hanzo 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Hanzo's burst.
  11. Junkrat 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Junkrat's burst.
  12. Kael'thas 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Kael'thas's burst.
  13. Li-Ming 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Li-Ming's burst.
  14. Nova 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  15. Probius 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Probius's burst.
  16. Xal'atath 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Xal'atath's burst.
  17. Abathur 60 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Abathur pressures a side lane.
  18. Samuro 60 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Samuro pressures a side lane.
  19. The Lost Vikings 60 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while The Lost Vikings pressures a side lane.
  20. Xul 60 Theory Ragnaros has map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) while Xul pressures a side lane.
  21. Cassia 59 Theory Cassia groups or freezes enemies (Valkyrie) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Cassia takes Valkyrie.
  22. Gazlowe 59 Theory Gazlowe groups or freezes enemies (Grav-O-Bomb 3000) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Gazlowe takes Grav-O-Bomb 3000.
  23. Medivh 59 Theory Medivh groups or freezes enemies (Ley Line Seal, Medivh Cheats!) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Medivh takes Ley Line Seal or Medivh Cheats!.
  24. Whitemane 59 Theory Whitemane groups or freezes enemies (Judgment Day) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Whitemane takes Judgment Day.
  25. Artanis 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Artanis dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  26. Greymane 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Greymane dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  27. Illidan 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Illidan dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  28. Kharazim 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Kharazim dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  29. Mephisto 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Mephisto dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  30. Qhira 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Qhira dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  31. Sonya 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Sonya dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  32. The Butcher 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets The Butcher dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  33. Thrall 57 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) lets Thrall dive onto a target that cannot walk away.

Spot a wrong or missing matchup? Suggest a correction with the mechanical reason; accepted notes land in the theory layer for everyone.

Best maps for Ragnaros

Score 1–100 from how the kit fits each map's layout and objective (50 = neutral)

  1. Garden of Terror Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Garden of Terror's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros's sustained damage (Living Meteor, Explosive Rune) speeds up Garden of Terror's race against neutral units.
    • TheoryRagnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Garden of Terror's pushing objective.
  2. Blackheart's Bay Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Blackheart's Bay's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros can reach channelling enemies quickly (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) to contest Blackheart's Bay's objective.
    • TheoryRagnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Blackheart's Bay's pushing objective.
  3. Dragon Shire Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Dragon Shire's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros can reach channelling enemies quickly (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) to contest Dragon Shire's objective.
    • TheoryRagnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Dragon Shire's pushing objective.
  4. Cursed Hollow Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Cursed Hollow's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros can reach channelling enemies quickly (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) to contest Cursed Hollow's objective.
  5. Warhead Junction Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Warhead Junction's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros can reach channelling enemies quickly (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) to contest Warhead Junction's objective.
  6. Sky Temple Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryRagnaros's map-wide reach (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) offsets Sky Temple's long rotations.
    • TheoryRagnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Sky Temple's pushing objective.
View 13 more
  1. Alterac Pass 65 Theory Ragnaros's sustained damage (Living Meteor, Explosive Rune) speeds up Alterac Pass's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Alterac Pass's pushing objective.
  2. Battlefield of Eternity 65 Theory Ragnaros's sustained damage (Living Meteor, Explosive Rune) speeds up Battlefield of Eternity's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Battlefield of Eternity's pushing objective.
  3. Haunted Mines 65 Theory Ragnaros's sustained damage (Living Meteor, Explosive Rune) speeds up Haunted Mines's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Haunted Mines's pushing objective.
  4. Infernal Shrines 65 Theory Ragnaros's sustained damage (Living Meteor, Explosive Rune) speeds up Infernal Shrines's race against neutral units.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Infernal Shrines's pushing objective.
  5. Towers of Doom 62 Theory Ragnaros can reach channelling enemies quickly (Molten Core, Heroic Difficulty) to contest Towers of Doom's objective.
    1 more reason
    • Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Towers of Doom's pushing objective.
  6. Braxis Holdout 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Braxis Holdout's pushing objective.
  7. Braxis Outpost 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) holds Braxis Outpost's single lane.
  8. Hanamura Temple 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Hanamura Temple's pushing objective.
  9. Industrial District 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) holds Industrial District's single lane.
  10. Lost Cavern 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) holds Lost Cavern's single lane.
  11. Silver City 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) holds Silver City's single lane.
  12. Tomb of the Spider Queen 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Tomb of the Spider Queen's pushing objective.
  13. Volskaya Foundry 55 Theory Ragnaros's waveclear (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) helps hold lanes against Volskaya Foundry's pushing objective.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Sulfuras Hungers Q Quest

      Quest: Every time Empower Sulfuras kills a Minion, its damage is increased by 1, up to 25. Reward: After killing 25 Minions, increase its damage by an additional 100.

    • Shifting Meteor W Quest

      Each time an enemy is hit by the same Living Meteor, they take 6% increased damage from it. Quest: Hit 75 Heroes with Living Meteor. Reward: After hitting 75 Heroes with Living Meteor, its duration is increased to 2.25 seconds, and it can be reactivated to change its direction once per use.

    • Engulfing Flame E

      Increase Blast Wave's damage by 50% and its radius by 15%.

  2. 4

    • Fire Ward W

      When Living Meteor hits an enemy Hero, gain a charge of Spell Armor, reducing damage from the next enemy ability by 50%. Stores up to 2 charges.

    • Slow Burn E

      Blast Wave Slows enemies hit by 40% for 2 seconds.

    • Catching Fire Active Quest

      Quest: Gathering a Regeneration Globe increases Ragnaros' Health Regeneration by 1.25 per second, up to 18.75. Reward: After gathering 15 Regeneration Globes, activate Catching Fire to gain 25 Armor for 3 seconds, reducing damage taken by 25%.

  3. 7

    • Hand of Ragnaros Q

      If Empower Sulfuras hits at least 2 enemy Heroes, refund 10 Mana and its cooldown recharges 100% faster for 4 seconds.

    • Molten Power W

      If Living Meteor hits enemy Heroes at least 5 times, reduce its cooldown by 7 seconds, and refund 30 Mana.

    • Blistering Attacks Passive

      Every 10 seconds, Ragnaros's next Basic Attack against a Hero deals 60% bonus damage. Hitting enemies with Basic Abilities reduces this cooldown by 1 second.

  4. 10

    • Sulfuras Smash Heroic Quest

      Hurl Sulfuras at the target area, landing after 0.75 seconds, dealing 250 (+4% per level) damage. Enemies in the center take 594 (+4% per level) damage instead and are Stunned for 0.5 seconds. Quest: Hit 8 enemy Heroes in the center. Mythic Reward: Sulfuras Smash gains an additional charge.

    • Lava Wave Heroic

      Release a wave of lava from Ragnaros's Core that travels down the targeted lane, dealing 240 (+4% per level) damage per second to non-Structure enemies in its path and instantly killing enemy Minions. Damage increased by 100% versus Heroes.

  5. 13

    • Cauterize Wounds Q

      Empower Sulfuras heals for an additional 45% of damage dealt to Heroes over 2 seconds.

    • Tempered Flame E

      When Blast Wave damages an enemy Hero, gain a Shield equal to 100% of the damage dealt for 3 seconds.

    • Resilient Flame Passive

      When Ragnaros is Stunned, he gains 40 Armor for 3 seconds, reducing damage taken by 40%. This effect has a 15 second cooldown.

  6. 16

    • Giant Scorcher Q

      Empower Sulfuras burns enemy Heroes for 9% of their maximum Health over 3 seconds. This additional damage does not heal Ragnaros.

    • Meteor Bomb W

      Living Meteor explodes at the end of its path, dealing 220 (+4% per level) damage. Enemies at its center take 30% increased damage.

    • Blast Echo E

      After Blast Wave explodes, another Blast Wave is created on Ragnaros.

  7. 20

    • Flames of Sulfuron Heroic

      Sulfuras Smash Slows enemies by 50% for 2.5 seconds, and the Stun duration of enemies hit in the center is increased by 1 second.

    • Lava Surge Heroic

      Lava Wave gains an additional charge and causes allied Minions and non-Boss Mercenaries to be carried with it.

    • Heroic Difficulty Trait

      Molten Core's range is increased by 100% at the start of its duration. In addition, the cooldown of Molten Core is reduced by 110 seconds when used on a destroyed Fort or Keep.

    • Submerge Active

      Ragnaros submerges below, entering Stasis and healing for 600 (+4% per level) Health over 3 seconds.

  • Molten Core D Trait

    180 s cooldown

    Channel on an allied or destroyed Fort or Keep to replace it with Ragnaros's ultimate form, temporarily gaining new Abilities, having 5000 (+4% per level) Health that burns away over 23 seconds. Ragnaros's ability ranges increase over the duration of Molten Core. Ragnaros returns to his normal form but is Stunned for 1 second upon losing all Health in Molten Core.

  • Return D Trait

    Return to original form.

  • Empower Sulfuras Q Ability

    4 s cooldown 25 Mana

    Ragnaros's next Basic Attack is instant, dealing 191 (+4% per level) Ability damage in an area, and heals for 20% of the damage dealt. Healing doubled versus Heroes. Molten Core: Molten Swing Stun and damage nearby enemies.

  • Molten Swing Q Ability

    9 s cooldown

    Swing Sulfuras in a wide arc, dealing 250 (+4% per level) damage and Stunning enemies for 1 second.

  • Living Meteor W Ability

    12 s cooldown 60 Mana

    Vector Targeting Summon a meteor at the target point that deals 68 (+4% per level) damage, then rolls in the target direction dealing 272 (+4% per level) damage per second for 1.75 seconds. Molten Core: Meteor Shower Drop a line of meteor impacts.

  • Meteor Shower W Ability

    6 s cooldown

    Vector Targeting Summon 3 meteors at the target point that fall in the target direction. Each meteor deals 200 (+4% per level) damage and Slows enemies by 35% for 2 seconds.

  • Blast Wave E Ability

    9 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Ignite Ragnaros or an ally, granting 25% Movement Speed for 1.5 seconds before exploding dealing 120 (+4% per level) damage to nearby enemies. Molten Core: Explosive Rune Cause a delayed explosion in a large area.

  • Explosive Rune E Ability

    2.5 s cooldown

    Create a rune that erupts after 1.5 and sets enemies on fire, dealing 22 (+4% per level) damage per second for 5 seconds.

  • Lava Wave R Heroic

    120 s cooldown 80 Mana

    Release a wave of lava from Ragnaros's Core that travels down the targeted lane, dealing 240 (+4% per level) damage per second to non-Structure enemies in its path and instantly killing enemy Minions. Damage increased by 100% versus Heroes.

  • Sulfuras Smash R Heroic

    60 s cooldown 70 Mana

    Hurl Sulfuras at the target area, landing after 0.75 seconds, dealing 250 (+4% per level) damage. Enemies in the center take 594 (+4% per level) damage instead and are Stunned for 0.5 seconds. Quest: Hit 8 enemy Heroes in the center. Mythic Reward: Sulfuras Smash gains an additional charge.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Ragnaros's kit. Each tag shows the ability or talent text that produced it; curated notes cover play-style traits the text cannot show.

Crowd control

Slow
Ability Meteor Shower “Each meteor deals 200 damage and Slows enemies by 35% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Slow Burn “Blast Wave Slows enemies hit by 40% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Flames of Sulfuron “Sulfuras Smash Slows enemies by 50% for 2.5 seconds, and the Stun duration of enemies hit in the center is increased…”
Stun
Ability Empower Sulfuras “Stun and damage nearby enemies.”
Ability Sulfuras Smash “Enemies in the center take 594 damage instead and are Stunned for 0.5 seconds.”
Ability Molten Swing “Swing Sulfuras in a wide arc, dealing 250 damage and Stunning enemies for 1 second.”
Talent Flames of Sulfuron “…Smash Slows enemies by 50% for 2.5 seconds, and the Stun duration of enemies hit in the center is increased by 1…”

Defense and mobility

Self-healing
Ability Empower Sulfuras “Ragnaros's next Basic Attack is instant, dealing 191 Ability damage in an area, and heals for 20% of the damage dealt.”
Talent Cauterize Wounds “Empower Sulfuras heals for an additional 45% of damage dealt to Heroes over 2 seconds.”
Talent Submerge “Ragnaros submerges below, entering Stasis and healing for 600 Health over 3 seconds.”
Shields
Talent Tempered Flame “When Blast Wave damages an enemy Hero, gain a Shield equal to 100% of the damage dealt for 3 seconds.”
Stasis
Talent Submerge “Ragnaros submerges below, entering Stasis and healing for 600 Health over 3 seconds.”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Empower Sulfuras “Ragnaros's next Basic Attack is instant, dealing 191 Ability damage in an area, and heals for 20% of the damage dealt.”
Ability Blast Wave “…or an ally, granting 25% Movement Speed for 1.5 seconds before exploding dealing 120 damage to nearby enemies.”
Ability Lava Wave “…down the targeted lane, dealing 240 damage per second to non-Structure enemies in its path and instantly killing…”
Channeled abilities
Ability Molten Core “Channel on an allied or destroyed Fort or Keep to replace it with Ragnaros's ultimate form, temporarily gaining new…”
Damage over time
Talent Giant Scorcher “Empower Sulfuras burns enemy Heroes for 9% of their maximum Health over 3 seconds.”
Global presence
Ability Molten Core “Channel on an allied or destroyed Fort or Keep to replace it with Ragnaros's ultimate form, temporarily gaining new…”
Talent Heroic Difficulty “In addition, the cooldown of Molten Core is reduced by 110 seconds when used on a destroyed Fort or Keep.”
Curated note Lava Wave runs down any lane he picks, starting from his own Core, so Ragnaros wipes or punishes a lane he is nowhere near.
Sustained damage
Ability Living Meteor “…target point that deals 68 damage, then rolls in the target direction dealing 272 damage per second for 1.75 seconds.”
Ability Explosive Rune “Create a rune that erupts after 1.5 and sets enemies on fire, dealing 22 damage per second for 5 seconds.”
Waveclear
Ability Lava Wave “…lane, dealing 240 damage per second to non-Structure enemies in its path and instantly killing enemy Minions.”
Ability Empower Sulfuras “Ragnaros's next Basic Attack is instant, dealing 191 Ability damage in an area, and heals for 20% of the damage dealt.”
Ability Blast Wave “…or an ally, granting 25% Movement Speed for 1.5 seconds before exploding dealing 120 damage to nearby enemies.”
Curated note Empower Sulfuras hits an area and Living Meteor rolls through a whole wave, so Ragnaros clears minions quickly while holding a solo lane.
  1. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 28 Sep 2026 Patch Nerfed

    1 nerf

    • NerfHeroic Difficulty: Cooldown 90 → 110Game data
  2. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 20 Jul 2026 Patch Mixed

    10 buffs, 6 nerfs, 9 other changes

    • BuffBlast Wave: Damage 104 → 120Base
    • NerfMolten Core: Cooldown 120 s → 180 sBase
    • BuffMolten Core: Health 3996 → 5000Base
    • BuffMolten Core: Duration 18 s → 23 sBase
    • ChangeMolten Core: 2 effect changes (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfMolten Core: Molten Core's Abilities range 35 → 20Base
    • BuffMolten Swing [Molten Core Q]: Damage 161 → 250Base
    • ChangeMolten Swing [Molten Core Q]: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfMolten Swing [Molten Core Q]: Cooldown 6 s → 9 sBase
    • ChangeMolten Swing [Molten Core Q]: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Damage 151 → 200Base
    • NerfMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Cooldown 2.5 s → 6 sBase
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Area of effect +66%Base
    • NerfMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: 2 effect changes (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • ChangeMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Slow 25% → 35%Base
    • BuffExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Cooldown 4 s → 2.5 sBase
    • BuffExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Damage 285 → 440Base
    • ChangeExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • ChangeExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfEngulfing Flame: Damage bonus 75% → 50%Level 1
    • ChangeSulfuras Smash: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Level 10
    • ChangeLava Surge: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20
    • ChangeLava Surge: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20
    • BuffHeroic Difficulty: Reworked (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20
  3. Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes, 29 Jun 2026 PTR Mixed

    9 buffs, 7 nerfs, 9 other changes

    • BuffBlast Wave: Damage 104 → 120Base
    • NerfMolten Core: Cooldown 120 s → 180 sBase
    • BuffMolten Core: Health 3996 → 5000Base
    • BuffMolten Core: Duration 18 s → 23 sBase
    • ChangeMolten Core: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffMeteor Swing [Molten Core Q]: Damage 161 → 250Base
    • ChangeMeteor Swing [Molten Core Q]: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfMeteor Swing [Molten Core Q]: Cooldown 6 s → 9 sBase
    • ChangeMeteor Swing [Molten Core Q]: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Damage 151 → 200Base
    • NerfMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Cooldown 2.5 s → 6 sBase
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Area of effect +66%Base
    • NerfMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: 2 effect changes (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • ChangeMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Slow 25% → 35%Base
    • NerfMeteor Shower [Molten Core W]: Range 35 → 20Base
    • BuffExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Cooldown 4 s → 2.5 sBase
    • ChangeExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: 2 effects removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Range 35 → 20Base
    • ChangeExplosive Rune [Molten Core E]: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfEngulfing Flame: Damage bonus 75% → 50%Level 1
    • ChangeSulfuras Smash: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Level 10
    • ChangeLava Surge: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20
    • ChangeLava Surge: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20
    • BuffHeroic Difficulty: Reworked (see Blizzard's notes)Level 20

Game-data changes between builds

Detected by comparing the game files of consecutive builds, including silent changes.

  1. 2.55.17.98025 → 2.57.0.98285

    • Heroic Difficulty cooldown (level 20): 90 → 110

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Guides and builds

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