First off I like shadowlands.
How can blizzard still not get this right?! Its been years.
Relics were a way better version of trait customization then conduits. Most of the soulbind traits are boring, (extra mount speed, weapon does not break). The good soulbind traits are the exception. I am talking about the traits on the companion - not the lootable conduits those are alright but could use more power choices. Who cares about finesse?
Relics supplemented a strong and robust trait system. The weapons had so many traits. My soulbind has like 3 traits @ max renown + 1-2 power conduits… what the hell.
On top of that Legion had the 2 legendaries and the 2/4 pc set bonus.
There is no comparison.