FYI didn't read the 3 pages of replies...
But I've been a mage since Closed Beta ^^;;
Cool downs
I only used a few key skills, plus the 2 aoe skills. Magic Missile, Firebolt, Magic Blast, and the Frost Nova, and Inferno. I can have a forever going combo of skills there.
Damage
We do M-damage, not physical damage. We are actually very helpful in parties. The only way a fighter can match our damage is by having a +9 axe. But they too sacrifice their defense.
Usefulness of Spells (or lack thereof)
We can slow, fear, dispell, mana drain, steal buffs, remove buffs, and we have 3 aoe skills. I think we're pretty good. We have a bunch of awesome skills coming in the future. I hope <.<
Casting Animations
I've never been annoying with this, just the 2 aoes, but thats the price you pay for nice aoes. Fighters don't have any skills that load because they're intended to be a support class, the tanks. When they have to mock, kick, devastate or w/e its to save the parties life. A loading bar would not help us.
Range
Only skill I had an issue with was Nova in KKP. The others are fine. MD can get annoying, but everyone gets within its range, and its supposed to be a challenge. We aren't the "front line", that's fighters.
Kiting
Never been a fan of kiting period. But it is possible.
Nova> attack> attack>fear>attack>ice>attack etc. Attack being w/e the heck you want it to be. Our advantage is slowing them, giving us a chance to get distance. But we're better off in parties I say. I never liked soloing.
Stones
Too little HP stones, never had a problem with SP. But that's what clerics are for. lvramire and I used to duo a lot. Even with a fighter you can do good. Get an END build fighter with nice scrolls and an axe, and who knows how to tank, and you'll dominate.
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