I love a well written post :P. First of all if you really want some hardcore mage advice, post this in the
"Mage Class Discussion".
Build
For your build I suggest you spec 3/5 lightning: The first the third upgrade, the rest aren't necessary. 2/5 lifegiver (Mana upgrade) mainly because there's no need for the rest in higher levels since your heals will pump people up to full! At least that's what I would do
. And then all upgrades on clock except explode. The rest should go into (in the following order) passive INT, STR, DEX, CRIT, armor if you PvP more. The things I haven't said anything about, I wouldn't chane
.
Pets
I don't know your budget, but Nekro and SnS are the best pets in game. However an affordable pet would be Slag. (Not big on mage pets)
PvP
PvP is broken unless you get a good clash, but that's unlikely because without somewhat "good gear" you will be replaced for clashes.
PvE
I'd never use lifegiver in PvE as it attratcs the aggro of every mob surrounding you. It's insta-death. Instead invest in a bunch of potions! The best would be if you could use fireball, ice, clock and gale. It's 100% mob control, but you'll die easily, so switch out gale with shield if you have to. Switch out clock for shield at boss and have lightning were I said gale before.
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