Wizard: Difference between revisions

The official GemStone IV encyclopedia.
Jump to navigation Jump to search
(Cleared up some language.)
(→‎Combat Maneuvers: PSM update.)
 
(85 intermediate revisions by 17 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Profession
{{profession |
| [[File:Small_wizard.jpg]]
name = Wizard |
| name = Wizard
type = [[Elemental]] [[pure]] |
circles = [[Minor Elemental]], [[Major Elemental]], [[Wizard Base]]
| type = [[Elemental]] [[Pure]]
| circles = [[Minor Elemental]]<br />[[Major Elemental]]<br />[[Wizard Base]]
| prime = [[Aura]], [[Logic]]
| mana = [[Aura]]
| TWCcost = 12 / 12 | TWCranks = 1
| AUcost = 14 / 0 | AUranks = 1
| SUcost = 13 / 0 | SUranks = 1
| CMcost = 12 / 8 | CMranks = 1
| OHEcost = 6 / 1 | OHEranks = 1
| OHBcost = 6 / 1 | OHBranks = 1
| THWcost = 14 / 3 | THWranks = 1
| RWcost = 14 / 3 | RWranks = 1
| TWcost = 8 / 2 | TWranks = 1
| PWcost = 14 / 3 | PWranks = 1
| BRLcost = 10 / 2 | BRLranks = 1
| AMBcost = 15 / 10 | AMBranks = 1
| MOCcost = 15 / 10 | MOCranks = 1
| PFcost = 8 / 0 | PFranks = 1
| DODcost = 20 / 20 | DODranks = 1
| SRcost = 0 / 8 | SRranks = 3
| AScost = 0 / 2 | ASranks = 2
| MIUcost = 0 / 1 | MIUranks = 2
| SAcost = 2 / 1 | SAranks = 2
| HPcost = 0 / 4 | HPranks = 3
| EMCcost = 0 / 3 | EMCranks = 3
| MMCcost = 0 / 12 | MMCranks = 1
| SMCcost = 0 / 12 | SMCranks = 1
| ELcost = 0 / 6 | ELranks = 2
| SpLcost = 0 / 20 | SpLranks = 1
| SoLcost = 0 / 10 | SoLranks = 1
| MLcost = 0 / 20 | MLranks = 1
| SURcost = 3 / 2 | SURranks = 2
| DTcost = 2 / 6 | DTranks = 1
| PLcost = 2 / 4 | PLranks = 2
| SHcost = 5 / 4 | SHranks = 1
| PERcost = 0 / 3 | PERranks = 2
| CLIcost = 4 / 0 | CLIranks = 1
| SWIcost = 3 / 0 | SWIranks = 1
| FAcost = 2 / 1 | FAranks = 2
| TRAcost = 0 / 3 | TRAranks = 2
| PPcost = 3 / 3 | PPranks = 1
}}
}}
{{otheruses4|the Wizard profession|the front end|Wizard (front end)}}


Wizards are one of Gemstone's [[pure]] spellcasters. They are considered to be masters of the Sphere of [[Elemental Magic]]. Wizard offensive spells are primarily implemented as [[Bolt Spells]] of a particular [[Element]]. Wizards have a wide array of defensive magics and utility spells as well. Wizards can [[Enchant]] weapons and armor by means of the [[Enchant Item (925)]] spell to give bonuses to attack or defense, respectively. Wizards can also [[Imbed]] their spells into certain [[imbedable]] items by means of the [[Create Magic Item (420)]] spell, and [[recharge]] some of these items by means of the [[Charge Item (517)]] spell to keep their magic strong. Finally, Wizards are able to summon a magical [[Familiar]] by means of the [[Call Familiar (920)]] spell, which they can use for various non-combat purposes.
'''Wizards''' are one of four [[pure]] [[profession]]s in [[GemStone]], and are considered to be masters of the [[sphere]] of [[elemental|elemental magic]]. Wizardly offensive spells are primarily represented by [[bolt spell]]s of a particular elemental energy, and are complemented by a wide array of defensive magics and utility spells. A common [[mutant]] Wizard sub-type is the [[War Mage]], which relies on [[Haste (506)|hasted]] physical attacks in combination with various utility spells.

Wizards can [[enchant]] weapons and armor by means of the [[Enchant (925)]] spell to give bonuses to attack or defense, respectively. Wizards can also [[imbed]] their spells into certain imbedable items by means of the [[Create Magic Item (420)]] spell, and [[recharge]] some of these items by means of the [[Charge Item (517)]] spell to keep their magic strong.

Finally, Wizards are able to summon a magical [[familiar]] by means of the [[Call Familiar (920)]] spell, which they can use for various non-combat purposes.


== Stat Placement and Race Selection ==
== Stat Placement and Race Selection ==


The most important [[Attributes]] for a Wizard are [[Aura]] and [[Logic]], as they provide double the training points as the other stats. In addition, Aura determines the bonus for some Elemental Spells and the amount of mana a character starts with. Dexterity is an important statistic for any Wizard as it adds an AS bonus to bolt spells. The other statistics are less important, but should not be "tanked" as that can result in serious penalties. Strength in particular can be important if you want to be able to carry treasure back from a hunt without being encumbered, an issue that Constitution also factors into somewhat. A higher Strength statistic will also let a wizard hold heavier armors unencumbered while enchanting.
The most important [[statistic]]s for a Wizard are [[Aura]] and [[Logic]], as they provide double the training points as the other stats. In addition, Aura determines the bonus for some elemental spells and the amount of mana a character starts with. [[Dexterity]] is an important statistic for any Wizard as it adds an AS bonus to bolt spells. The other statistics are less important, but should not be "tanked" as that can result in serious penalties. [[Strength]] in particular can be important if you want to be able to carry treasure back from a hunt without being encumbered, an issue that [[Constitution]] also factors into somewhat. A higher Strength statistic will also let a wizard hold heavier armors unencumbered while enchanting, and is essential for the [[War Mage]] subtype as it factors directly into their AS with weapons.


Statistical placement should be optimized for either growth, training points, or a balance of the two. As most players will not reach level one-hundred, a balance of the two is best. Wizards primarily rely on Mental training points, and thus high statistical placement of Mental statistics is desirable. Most wizards convert a large amount of Physical training points to Mental training points during the course of their training, but the GemStone training system is currently set up to optimize conversion of points.
Statistical placement should be optimized for either growth, training points, or a balance of the two. As most players will not reach level one-hundred, a balance of the two is best. Wizards primarily rely on mental training points, and thus high statistical placement of mental statistics is desirable. Most wizards convert a large amount of physical training points to mental training points during the course of their training, but the GemStone training system is currently set up to optimize conversion of points. ([[War Mage]]s tend to convert much lower numbers of points, but will probably still find it necessary.)


Race selection is a fairly non-mechanical decision. Though some races receive more appropriate bonuses (i.e. Dark Elves and Halflings) there is no single race that is superior over the others. Choose whichever one best fits the character.
Race selection is a fairly non-mechanical decision. Though some races receive more appropriate bonuses (i.e. [[Dark elf|dark elves]] and [[halfling]]s) there is no single race that is superior over the others. Choose whichever one best fits the character. [[War Mage]]s tend to choose races with a [[Strength]] bonus, while caster wizards tend to choose one with a [[Dexterity]] bonus.


== General Training Suggestions ==
== General Training Suggestions ==


Wizards are expected to train primarily in magical skills and, of course, spells. The magical skills which apply to Wizardry are Arcane Symbols, Magic Item Use, Spell Aiming, Harness Power, Elemental Mana Control, and the four Elemental Lores. Magical skills and spells are key for wizards who use a runestaff, which requires at least eight total magical skill ranks per level to be an effective form of defense. Wizards may also choose to train in shield, armor, and weapon use, depending on the specific type of Wizard you want to play. Both weapon and shield serve primarily a defensive purpose for most Wizards, though some choose to focus on more martial skills and supplement them with spells.
Wizards are designed to train primarily in magical skills and, of course, spells. The magical skills which apply to Wizardry are Arcane Symbols, Magic Item Use, Spell Aiming, Harness Power, Elemental Mana Control, and the four Elemental Lores. Magical skills and spells are key for wizards who use a runestaff, which requires at least eight total magical skill ranks per level to be an effective form of defense. Wizards may also choose to train in shield, armor, and weapon use, depending on the specific type of wizard desired. Wizards who choose to focus on physical combat and supplement that with spells are called [[War Mage]]s. The War Mage build is supported by a number of spell benefits.


;[[Arcane Symbols]]
;[[Arcane Symbols]]
:Most Wizards recommend singling in this for life, possibly doubling in it if one is interested in being an Enchanter. It helps with reading and casting spells from scrolls. Though scrolls aren't particularly useful in the middle of combat, they're very useful for casting utility and defensive spells outside of battle. This skill also serves as a cheap way to improve [[Runestaff]] defense.
:Most recommend singling in this for life, possibly doubling in it if one is interested in being an Enchanter. It helps with reading and casting spells from scrolls. Though scrolls aren't particularly useful in the middle of combat, they're very useful for casting utility and defensive spells outside of battle. This skill also serves as a cheap way to improve [[runestaff]] defense.


;[[Magic Item Use]]
;[[Magic Item Use]]
:This skill is particularly useful for using wands in a Wizard's early life. Magical items sometimes also require certain skill to activate. Singling in MIU for life is usually recommended, though a Wizard serious about Enchanting might consider doubling in it. MIU is another cheap skill to increase [[Runestaff]] defense.
:This skill is particularly useful for using wands during lower levels. Magical items sometimes also require certain skill to activate. Singling in MIU for life is usually recommended, though a wizard serious about enchanting might consider doubling in it. MIU is another cheap skill to increase [[runestaff]] defense.


;[[Spell Aiming]]
;[[Spell Aiming]]
:This is a Wizard's primary attack skill. It determines accuracy with aimed bolt spells, and therefore should always be doubled in for life.
:This is a pure wizard's primary attack skill, and some War Mages also find it important as a backup. It determines accuracy with aimed bolt spells, and therefore should always be doubled in for life.


;[[Harness Power]]
;[[Harness Power]]
:Training in this provides three mana for each training up to level. Training beyond that only provides a single extra mana point per rank. Because of this, most Wizards train up to their level, and beyond that when they feel the need for more mana (especially at the lower levels). Some Wizards enjoy the extra mana, however, and find it well worth the cost to double in it.
:Training in this provides three mana for each training up to level. Training beyond that only provides a single extra mana point per rank. Because of this, most wizards train up to their level, and beyond that when they feel the need for more mana (especially at the lower levels). Some wizards enjoy the extra mana, however, and find it well worth the cost to double in it. War Mages tend to single train, but not exceed that.


;[[Elemental Mana Control]]
;[[Elemental Mana Control]] (EMC)
:This skill determines how effective one will be in sharing elemental mana with other casters. Twenty-four ranks will give maximum efficiency in sharing mana, but most Wizards will 1x for life. Again, serious Enchanters may train more in EMC to benefit their casting.
:This skill determines how effective one will be in sharing elemental mana with others also trained in EMC, as well as providing benefits to numerous spells, including [[Enchant (925)]]. Twenty-four ranks will give maximum efficiency in sharing mana, but most wizards will 1x for life to benefit their spells. Also, training in EMC increases a Wizard's mana regeneration rate, both on and off node.


;[[Elemental Lores]]
;[[Elemental Lores]]
:This skill can define a Wizard by determining which element they will specialize in. Lores result in a small (.001) increase in the respective bolt's Damage Factor, as well as resulting in varying effects on different elemental spells. It has been made clear that staff expectations are for Wizards to 1x in Elemental Lores, and future implementations are likely to be based on this expectation.
:This skill can define a Wizard by determining which element they will specialize in. Lores result in a small (.001) increase in the respective bolt's Damage Factor, as well as benefiting many spells in a variety of ways. Wizards are expected to 1x in some combination of Elemental Lores.


;[[Weapon Skills]]
;[[Weapon|Weapon Skills]]
:War Mages train in a specific weapon 1x for life. This may be anything from [[ranged]] to [[polearm]]s.
:Since Edged Weapons are the cheapest to train in, most Wizards who choose to use a weapon will 1x in that for life.


;[[Shield Training]]
;[[Shield Training]]
:Training 1x in this for life is the basic defensive training for any Wizard that chooses not to use a [[Runestaff]].
:Training 1x in this for life is the basic defensive training for any wizard that chooses to use a one-handed weapon ([[Edged Weapons]] or [[Blunt Weapons]]).


;[[Armor Training]]
;[[Armor Use]]
:Most Wizards will recommend training four ranks to wear Full Leathers with no maneuver hindrance. Other wizards recommend enough ranks to wear Double Leathers, though there is always a casting hinderance for armors in an ASG above full leather. Opinions vary over whether the extra protection is worth the spell hindrance and extra training cost.
:Most wizards will recommend training two ranks to wear full leathers with no [[Armor#action penalty|action]] and [[roundtime]] penalties. Other wizards recommend enough ranks to wear double leathers, though there is always a casting hindrance for armors in an AsG above full leather. Opinions vary over whether the extra protection is worth the spell hindrance and extra training cost.


;[[Physical Training]]
;[[Physical Fitness]]
:Train in this sparingly until reaching maximum health (which is based on Race and Con bonus). Afterwards, most Wizards will stop training in it entirely, though it does still provide some benefit regarding the length of stuns and severity of criticals.
:It is recommended to train in Physical Fitness 1x for life. Maximum health (which is based on Race and Con bonus), generally maximizes at about 20-25 ranks, and further training provide benefits to the length of stuns and severity of criticals.


== Secondary Skills ==
== Secondary Skills ==


;[[Spiritual Mana Control]]
;[[Spiritual Mana Control]]
:Handy for any Wizard who wants to share mana with spiritual casters such as Empaths or Clerics. Doesn't directly affect any Wizard abilities. Twenty-four ranks will provide the most efficiency for mana sharing.
:Handy for any Wizard who wants to share mana with spiritual casters such as [[empath]]s or [[cleric]]s. Doesn't directly affect any Wizard abilities. Twenty-four ranks will provide the most efficiency for mana sharing.


;[[Climbing]] and [[Swimming]]
;[[Climbing]] and [[Swimming]]
:These skills become more important with time, particularly Climbing. Generally, thirty ranks of each will get you everywhere you want to go, but having that many ranks is unnecessary until much later in life. Five ranks in each by level 20 should suffice for some time.
:These skills become more important with time, particularly climbing. Generally, thirty ranks of each will get you everywhere you want to go, but having that many ranks is unnecessary until much later in life. Five ranks in each by level 20 should suffice for some time.


;[[Survival]] and [[First Aid]]
;[[Survival]] and [[First Aid]]
Line 61: Line 106:


;[[Perception]]
;[[Perception]]
:Most players get at least 24 ranks or so to allow them to find certain hidden paths that are scattered throughout the land and will allow you access to certain hunting grounds. Otherwise, this is a fairly unimportant skill, unless you want it for a different reason (i.e. Lockpicking).
:Most players get at least 24 ranks or so to allow them to find certain hidden paths that are scattered throughout the land and will allow you access to certain hunting grounds. This skill also is a cheap way to increase defenses against some [[creature maneuver]].


;Other Skills
;Other Skills
:Just because a skill isn't mentioned here doesn't mean it's entirely useless. The only skills that serve no purpose are the non-Elemental lores. All the other skills can be trained in and garner some ability. Wizards can pick boxes rather well, or train in [[Combat Maneuvers]] to [[disarm]] their opponents, or better defend against Disarming.
:Just because a skill isn't mentioned here doesn't mean it's entirely useless. The only skills that serve no purpose are the non-elemental lores. All the other skills can be trained in and garner some ability. Wizards can pick boxes rather well, or train in [[Combat Maneuvers]] to [[Disarm Weapon|disarm]] their opponents (or gain additional AS and DS bonuses with weapons), or better defend against disarming.
{{top}}


== Spell Training ==
== Spell Training ==
Most wizards recommend anything between 2x and 3x training in Spell Research. Wizards have three Spell Circles available to them: Major Elemental Spells, Minor Elemental Spells, and Wizard Spells. All three have important spells and how one decides to progress through the lists is a personal choice.
Most wizards recommend anything between 2x and 3x training in Spell Research. Wizards have three Spell Circles available to them: Major Elemental Spells, Minor Elemental Spells, and Wizard Spells. All three have important spells and how one decides to progress through the lists is a personal choice.


;[[Minor Elemental]]
=== [[Minor Elemental]] ===
This circle is one of the most widely available spell circles. However, it provides a lot of defensive and utility spells that will be important for a Wizard. There are certain key spells that I found particularly important.
This circle is one of the most widely available spell circles. However, it provides a lot of defensive and utility spells that will be important for a Wizard.


:*[[Elemental Defense I (401)]]
:*[[Elemental Defense I (401)]]
:*[[Elemental Defense II (406)]]
:*[[Elemental Defense II (406)]]
:*[[Elemental Defense III (414)]]
:*[[Elemental Defense III (414)]]
:Getting these at their respective levels will help keep defenses high. Since the gap between 406 and 414 is rather large, you may want to drop off training after 406 in order to focus on the other two circles.
::Getting these at their respective levels will help keep defenses high. Since the gap between 406 and 414 is rather large, you may want to drop off training after 406 in order to focus on the other two circles.


:*[[Elemental Wave (410)]]
:*[[Elemental Wave (410)]]
:An excellent set-up spell, it tends to knock down everyone in the room that is NOT joined to the caster's group and give them round time before they can stand back up. Useful, but not vital and can be acquired after 10th level with no adverse consequences.
::An excellent set-up spell, it tends to knock down everyone in the room that is NOT joined to the caster's group and give them round time before they can stand back up. Useful, but not vital and can be acquired after 10th level with no adverse consequences.

:*[[Mass Elemental Defense (419)]]
::A spell truly for the masses, is the equivalent of casting Elemental Defense III at each member of the caster's [[group]]. It will make you friends, but is not necessary at level 19. In common usage, this spell is often referred to as "guards".


:*[[Elemental Targetting (425)]]
:*[[Elemental Targetting (425)]]
:Highly recommended as soon as one reaches level twenty-five because of the bonus it adds to AS and CS. It aids
::Highly recommended as soon as one reaches level twenty-five because of the bonus it adds to AS and CS. It aids considerably in hunting.
considerably in hunting.


:*[[Elemental Barrier (430)]]
:*[[Elemental Barrier (430)]]
:Though handy, the extra defense is not strictly necessary until later. One can wait until well after level 30 to acquire this spell.
::Though handy, the extra defense is not strictly necessary until later. One can wait until well after level 30 to acquire this spell.


;[[Major Elemental]]
=== [[Major Elemental]] ===
This circle provides several key utility and defensive spells, as well as a few important offensive ones.
This circle provides several key utility and defensive spells, as well as a few important offensive ones.


:*[[Thurfel's Ward (503)]]
:*[[Thurfel's Ward (503)]]
:A cheap and powerful defensive spell that should be acquired as soon as possible. The color of the specks of light is based on one's [[Attunement]].
::A cheap and powerful defensive spell that should be acquired as soon as possible. The color of the specks of light is based on one's [[attunement]].


:*[[Hand of Tonis (505)]]
:*[[Hand of Tonis (505)]]
:Not key for it's level, the spell deserves mentioning because of it's incredible utility as soon as one acquires twenty ranks of Elemental Lore: Air. With twenty ranks of Lore the spell becomes a Bolt attack that uses Unbalance crits, which have a very high knockdown and stun chance.
::Hand of Tonis is a relatively weak spell when first acquired, only stunning targets or dissipating clouds. But it gains incredible utility with twenty ranks of [[Elemental Lore, Air]], where a bolt version of the spell becomes available at offensive stances. The Tonis bolt uses [[unbalance]] crits, which have a very high knockdown and stun chance.

:*[[Haste (506)]]
::Not especially important for pure wizards, the spell is still very useful. It can be used to reduce physical roundtimes caused by actions (such as healing herbs, standing up, and rough terrain) as well as those inflicted by certain combat maneuvers or spells. This is a critical spell for [[War Mage]]s with sufficient training, who may use Haste to swing a weapon with 1 second of RT. It becomes supremely effective once the caster has twenty-four ranks of [[Elemental Lore, Air]] and at least twenty-seven [[Major Elemental]] spell ranks.

::''The use of Haste as a combat enhancer is the defining characteristic of the [[War Mage]] subtype of wizards, who generally rely on the use of weapons for a majority of their offensive power, rather than using magical attacks.''


:*[[Strength (509)]]
:*[[Strength (509)]]
::[[War Mage]]s find Strength essential, as they use it for its offensive boost with physical attacks (or for a reduction in roundtime with bow use). Other wizards will primarily reap the benefit of increased [[Encumbrance|carrying capacity]].
:Also not particularly key for it's level, the spell is still very useful. Most Wizards find it helps tremendously with their carrying capacity, though several War Mages also use it for it's offensive boost with their weapons.


:*[[Floating Disk (511)]]
:*[[Floating Disk (511)]]
:One of the most sought after spells from other classes, this disk is used to hold items so that they do not encumber the owner. Again, not vital at it's level, but another important spell.
::A commonly sought after spells from other classes, this disk is used to hold items so that they do not encumber the owner. Again, not vital at its level, but another important spell.


:*[[Elemental Focus (513)]]
:*[[Elemental Focus (513)]]
:This is the first bolt AS boosting spell a wizard can learn. It should be acquired as soon as possible. It does cause a penalty with weapon-based attacks, but at this point only War Mages are likely to find that to be a hindrance.
::This is the first spell that a wizard can learn to boost bolt AS, and so bolting wizards should acquire it as soon as possible. Due to the penalty with weapon-based attacks, [[War Mage]]s will be generally uninterested in its tradeoff.


:*[[Mana Leech (516)]]
:*[[Mana Leech (516)]]
:Mana Leech is quite possibly the most important spell to get as soon as it's available. It's the best mana returning spell in the game, and key for a Wizard as soon as they reach level sixteen. It will ensure that one has enough mana to make a hunt last long enough to fill the head with Field Experience.
::For casting wizards, Mana Leech is quite possibly the most important spell to get as soon as possible at level 16. It is the best mana returning spell in the game, and helps provide the wizard with enough mana to make a hunt last long enough to [[Experience|fill the head]].


:*[[Cone of Lightning (518)]]
:*[[Cone of Elements (518)]]
:Not a vital spell at it's level, this is still one of the most powerful spells a Wizard can cast. It hits every creature in the room with Major Shock (910). It's an old spell, and very useful for destroying swarms of creatures during invasions. Great to show off with. Caution should be observed, however, when this spell is used in invasions. Certain creatures can reflect the Cone back at the caster and all player characters in the room.
::Not a vital spell at its level, this is still one of the most powerful spells a Wizard can cast. It hits a large number of creatures with varying of elemental bolts. It can be very useful for destroying swarms of creatures during invasions. Great to show off with. Caution should be observed, however, when this spell is used in invasions. Certain creatures can reflect the Cone back at the caster and all player characters in the room.


:*[[Meteor Swarm (525)]]
:*[[Meteor Swarm (525)]]
:Not a particularly useful spell, this is one of the most devastating spells available. It summons meteors into the room it's cast in as well as surrounding rooms. The meteors can deal damage to players, creatures, and even the caster. Casting the spell sends a warning to Game Masters due to it's potential abuse. Needless to say, the spell shouldn't be used often, if at all.
::Although not generally considered a useful spell, this is one of the most devastating spells available. It summons meteors into both the room in which the spell is cast as well as surrounding rooms. The meteors deal damage to players, creatures, and even the caster. Casting the spell sends a warning to [[GameMaster]]s due to its potential for abuse. This spell should be used very rarely and with an abundance of caution.
{{top}}

;[[Wizard Base]]
=== [[Wizard Base]] ===
This circle contains the majority of a Wizard's offensive power in the form of [[Bolt Spells]]. It also has some of the more profession defining spells such as [[Call Familiar (920)]] and [[Enchant Item (925)]].
This circle contains the majority of a Wizard's offensive power in the form of [[bolt spell]]s. It also has some of the more profession defining spells such as [[Call Familiar (920)]] and [[Enchant (925)]].


:*[[Minor Shock (901)]]
:*[[Minor Shock (901)]]
Line 122: Line 175:
:*[[Minor Fire (906)]]
:*[[Minor Fire (906)]]
:*[[Major Shock (910)]]
:*[[Major Shock (910)]]
::Bolt spells deal damage to a single enemy based on Spell Aiming ranks and Dexterity bonus. Most Wizards use [[Minor Acid (904)]] as their primary bolt until higher levels or against specific creatures. [[Minor Fire (906)]] is particularly useful against the undead and in the [[Icemule Trace]] and [[Glacier]] areas. These are the spells commonly found in iron, silver, aquamarine, crystal, and golden wands.
:*[[Hurl Boulder (510)]]
:Bolt spells deal damage to a single enemy based on Spell Aiming ranks and Dexterity bonus. Most Wizards use [[Minor Acid (904)]] as their primary bolt until higher levels or against specific creatures.


:*[[Major Cold (907)]]
:*[[Major Cold (907)]]
:*[[Major Fire (908)]]
:*[[Major Fire (908)]]
:Ball spells tend to deal less damage than Bolt spells, but they have the advantage of being able to cause multiple flares beyond the first hit. These flares can hit multiple creatures in the room, which makes Ball spells ideal for crowd control. Most Wizards prefer to use [[Major Fire (908)]] because of it's higher damage.
::Ball spells tend to deal less damage than Bolt spells, but they have the advantage of being able to cause multiple flares beyond the first hit. These flares can hit multiple creatures in the room, which makes Ball spells ideal for crowd control. Most Wizards prefer to use [[Major Fire (908)]] because of it's higher damage. [[Major Cold (907)]] is the spell found in blue wands.


:*[[Mass Blur (911)]]
:*[[Mass Blur (911)]]
:One of the more popular spells among other classes, Mass Blurs affects everyone joined to the caster. It's not vital for a Wizard, but it does make you popular, and helps boost your defenses further.
::One of the more popular spells among other classes, Mass Blurs affects everyone joined to the caster. It's not vital for a Wizard, but it does make you popular, and helps boost your defenses further.


:*[[Melgorehn's Aura (913)]]
:*[[Melgorehn's Aura (913)]]
:An excellent defensive spell, this spell will make hunting significantly easier. Acquire it as soon as possible.
::An excellent defensive spell, this spell will make hunting significantly easier. Acquire it as soon as possible.


:*[[Call Familiar (920)]]
:*[[Call Familiar (920)]]
:Call Familiar allows a player to summon an animal to serve as an ally. Wizards who are [[Attunement|attuned]] to a particular [[element]] have the opportunity to summon a [[wyrdling]] in addition to the typical mundane animal. Though [[Familiar]]s cannot perform any combat actions, they can deliver messages, watch rooms, carry an item, and find other players. Call Familiar is considered to be a defining spell of the Wizard profession.
::Call Familiar allows a player to summon an animal to serve as an ally. Wizards who are [[Attunement|attuned]] to a particular element have the opportunity to summon a [[wyrdling]] in addition to the typical mundane animal. Though [[familiar]]s cannot perform any combat actions, they can deliver messages, watch rooms, carry an item, and find other players. Call Familiar is considered to be a defining spell of the Wizard profession.

:*[[Enchant (925)]]
::Enchant Item allows a player to enchant weapons, shields and armor, increating the bonus to [[Attack strength|AS]] for weapons or [[Defensive Strength|DS]] for shields and armor. Enchant Item is limited to increasing the bonus of items to a maximum of plus fifty (+50), with each complete enchantment increasing the bonus of the item by five (5). (However, enchantments above thirty-five (+35) are exceedingly rare and difficult under the current limitations.) Typically trained Wizards who learn this spell at level twenty-five (25) are considered capable of using Enchant Item to bring items to a bonus of plus twenty (+20). Enchant Item is generally considered a defining spell of the Wizard profession.


:*[[Familiar Gate (930)]]
:*[[Familiar Gate (930)]]
:Familiar Gate allows a player to create a gate between their own location and that of their familiar. While the gate remains open, any player may pass through it to travel between the two locations. The gate remains open for a short period of time, typically a few seconds, or until the player who created it passes through.
::Familiar Gate allows a player to create a gate between their own location and that of their familiar. While the gate remains open, any player may pass through it to travel between the two locations. The gate remains open for a short period of time, typically a few seconds, or until the player who created it passes through.

== Combat Maneuvers ==
Few non-[[War Mage]]s train in combat maneuvers, but wizards have access to the following CMAN's:

{| class="wikitable"
|+ CMAN Cost Per Rank
|-
! CMAN || width=50px | Rank 1 || width=50px | Rank 2 || width=50px | Rank 3 || width=50px | Rank 4 || width=50px | Rank 5
|-
| [[Combat Movement]] || 2 || 3 || 4 || 5 || 6
|-
| [[Cunning Defense]] || 2 || 3 || 4 || 5 || 6
|-
| [[Dirtkick]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Disarm Weapon]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Feint]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Groin Kick]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Precision]] || 4 || 6 || - || - || -
|-
| [[Retreat]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Stance Perfection]] || 4 || 8 || - || - || -
|-
| [[Trip]] || 2 || 4 || 6 || 8 || 10
|-
| [[Unarmed Specialist]] || 6 || - || - || - || -
|}

==Wizard Statistic Growth Rates==

For more information see the page on [[Statistic growth rate | statistic growth rates]].


{| {{prettytable}}
:*[[Enchant Item (925)]]
|+ '''Wizard Stat Growth Rates'''
:Enchant Item allows a player to enchant weapons, shields and armor, increating the bonus to [[Attack Strength|AS]] for weapons or [[Defensive Strength|DS]] for shields and armor. Enchant Item is limited to increasing the bonus of items to a maximum of plus thirty-five (+35) or [[Enchantment terminology|7x]], with each complete enchantment increasing the bonus of the item by five (5). Typically trained Wizards who learn this spell at level twenty-five (25) are considered capable of using Enchant Item to bring items to a bonus of plus twenty (+20) or [[Enchantment terminology|4x]]. Enchant Item is generally considered a defining spell of the Wizard profession.
|-
! width=80px | ''Profession''
! width=80px | [[Strength]] || width=80px | [[Constitution]] || width=80px | [[Dexterity]] || width=80px | [[Agility]] || width=80px | [[Discipline]]
! width=80px | [[Aura]] || width=80px | [[Logic]] || width=80px | [[Intuition]] || width=80px | [[Wisdom]] || width=80px | [[Influence]]
|- align = center
| '''Wizard''' ||10||15||25||15||20||30||25||25||20||20
|}
''Note: The table above is the baseline statistic growth rates. These values are actually modified for '''every''' race in GemStone IV, including [[human]]s.''
{{top}}
==Resources==
*[[/saved posts|Saved posts]]
=====Officials Folders=====
*[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/view Main folder]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Announcements/view Announcements]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Developer's%20Corner%20-%20Wizards/view Developer's Corner]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Wizard%20Banter/view Banter]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Wizard%20Spells/view Spells (Wizard Base)]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Enchanting/view Enchanting]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Familiars/view Familiars]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Wizard%20Guild%20Discussion/view Guild Discussion]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/So%20You%20Want%20to%20be%20a%20Wizard%3F/view So You Want to be a Wizard?]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Roleplaying%20a%20Wizard/view Roleplaying a Wizard]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Wizard%20General%20Discussion/view General Discussion]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Hunting%20Strategies/view Hunting Strategies]
**[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Wizards/Major%20Elemental%20Circle/view Major Elemental Circle]
=====Guides=====
*[[A beginner's guide to playing a wizard]]
*[[Comprehensive Wizard Guide]]


{{Wizard}}
[[Category:Professions]]
{{Professions}}

Latest revision as of 02:35, 8 January 2022

Wizard
Small wizard.jpg
Type Elemental Pure
Spell Circles Minor Elemental
Major Elemental
Wizard Base
Prime Requisites Aura, Logic
Mana Statistics Aura
Physical Skills
Skill Cost Ranks
Two Weapon Combat 12 / 12 1
Armor Use 14 / 0 1
Shield Use 13 / 0 1
Combat Maneuvers 12 / 8 1
Edged Weapons 6 / 1 1
Blunt Weapons 6 / 1 1
Two-Handed Weapons 14 / 3 1
Ranged Weapons 14 / 3 1
Thrown Weapons 8 / 2 1
Polearm Weapons 14 / 3 1
Brawling 10 / 2 1
Ambush 15 / 10 1
Multi Opponent Combat 15 / 10 1
Physical Fitness 8 / 0 1
Dodging 20 / 20 1
Magical Skills
Skill Cost Ranks
Arcane Symbols 0 / 2 2
Magic Item Use 0 / 1 2
Spell Aiming 2 / 1 2
Harness Power 0 / 4 3
Elemental Mana Control 0 / 3 3
Mental Mana Control 0 / 12 1
Spirit Mana Control 0 / 12 1
Spell Research 0 / 8 3
Elemental Lore 0 / 6 2
Spiritual Lore 0 / 20 1
Sorcerous Lore 0 / 10 1
Mental Lore 0 / 20 1
General Skills
Skill Cost Ranks
Survival 3 / 2 2
Disarming Traps 2 / 6 1
Picking Locks 2 / 4 2
Stalking and Hiding 5 / 4 1
Perception 0 / 3 2
Climbing 4 / 0 1
Swimming 3 / 0 1
First Aid 2 / 1 2
Trading 0 / 3 2
Pickpocketing 3 / 3 1
This article is about the Wizard profession. For the front end, see Wizard (front end).

Wizards are one of four pure professions in GemStone, and are considered to be masters of the sphere of elemental magic. Wizardly offensive spells are primarily represented by bolt spells of a particular elemental energy, and are complemented by a wide array of defensive magics and utility spells. A common mutant Wizard sub-type is the War Mage, which relies on hasted physical attacks in combination with various utility spells.

Wizards can enchant weapons and armor by means of the Enchant (925) spell to give bonuses to attack or defense, respectively. Wizards can also imbed their spells into certain imbedable items by means of the Create Magic Item (420) spell, and recharge some of these items by means of the Charge Item (517) spell to keep their magic strong.

Finally, Wizards are able to summon a magical familiar by means of the Call Familiar (920) spell, which they can use for various non-combat purposes.

Stat Placement and Race Selection

The most important statistics for a Wizard are Aura and Logic, as they provide double the training points as the other stats. In addition, Aura determines the bonus for some elemental spells and the amount of mana a character starts with. Dexterity is an important statistic for any Wizard as it adds an AS bonus to bolt spells. The other statistics are less important, but should not be "tanked" as that can result in serious penalties. Strength in particular can be important if you want to be able to carry treasure back from a hunt without being encumbered, an issue that Constitution also factors into somewhat. A higher Strength statistic will also let a wizard hold heavier armors unencumbered while enchanting, and is essential for the War Mage subtype as it factors directly into their AS with weapons.

Statistical placement should be optimized for either growth, training points, or a balance of the two. As most players will not reach level one-hundred, a balance of the two is best. Wizards primarily rely on mental training points, and thus high statistical placement of mental statistics is desirable. Most wizards convert a large amount of physical training points to mental training points during the course of their training, but the GemStone training system is currently set up to optimize conversion of points. (War Mages tend to convert much lower numbers of points, but will probably still find it necessary.)

Race selection is a fairly non-mechanical decision. Though some races receive more appropriate bonuses (i.e. dark elves and halflings) there is no single race that is superior over the others. Choose whichever one best fits the character. War Mages tend to choose races with a Strength bonus, while caster wizards tend to choose one with a Dexterity bonus.

General Training Suggestions

Wizards are designed to train primarily in magical skills and, of course, spells. The magical skills which apply to Wizardry are Arcane Symbols, Magic Item Use, Spell Aiming, Harness Power, Elemental Mana Control, and the four Elemental Lores. Magical skills and spells are key for wizards who use a runestaff, which requires at least eight total magical skill ranks per level to be an effective form of defense. Wizards may also choose to train in shield, armor, and weapon use, depending on the specific type of wizard desired. Wizards who choose to focus on physical combat and supplement that with spells are called War Mages. The War Mage build is supported by a number of spell benefits.

Arcane Symbols
Most recommend singling in this for life, possibly doubling in it if one is interested in being an Enchanter. It helps with reading and casting spells from scrolls. Though scrolls aren't particularly useful in the middle of combat, they're very useful for casting utility and defensive spells outside of battle. This skill also serves as a cheap way to improve runestaff defense.
Magic Item Use
This skill is particularly useful for using wands during lower levels. Magical items sometimes also require certain skill to activate. Singling in MIU for life is usually recommended, though a wizard serious about enchanting might consider doubling in it. MIU is another cheap skill to increase runestaff defense.
Spell Aiming
This is a pure wizard's primary attack skill, and some War Mages also find it important as a backup. It determines accuracy with aimed bolt spells, and therefore should always be doubled in for life.
Harness Power
Training in this provides three mana for each training up to level. Training beyond that only provides a single extra mana point per rank. Because of this, most wizards train up to their level, and beyond that when they feel the need for more mana (especially at the lower levels). Some wizards enjoy the extra mana, however, and find it well worth the cost to double in it. War Mages tend to single train, but not exceed that.
Elemental Mana Control (EMC)
This skill determines how effective one will be in sharing elemental mana with others also trained in EMC, as well as providing benefits to numerous spells, including Enchant (925). Twenty-four ranks will give maximum efficiency in sharing mana, but most wizards will 1x for life to benefit their spells. Also, training in EMC increases a Wizard's mana regeneration rate, both on and off node.
Elemental Lores
This skill can define a Wizard by determining which element they will specialize in. Lores result in a small (.001) increase in the respective bolt's Damage Factor, as well as benefiting many spells in a variety of ways. Wizards are expected to 1x in some combination of Elemental Lores.
Weapon Skills
War Mages train in a specific weapon 1x for life. This may be anything from ranged to polearms.
Shield Training
Training 1x in this for life is the basic defensive training for any wizard that chooses to use a one-handed weapon (Edged Weapons or Blunt Weapons).
Armor Use
Most wizards will recommend training two ranks to wear full leathers with no action and roundtime penalties. Other wizards recommend enough ranks to wear double leathers, though there is always a casting hindrance for armors in an AsG above full leather. Opinions vary over whether the extra protection is worth the spell hindrance and extra training cost.
Physical Fitness
It is recommended to train in Physical Fitness 1x for life. Maximum health (which is based on Race and Con bonus), generally maximizes at about 20-25 ranks, and further training provide benefits to the length of stuns and severity of criticals.

Secondary Skills

Spiritual Mana Control
Handy for any Wizard who wants to share mana with spiritual casters such as empaths or clerics. Doesn't directly affect any Wizard abilities. Twenty-four ranks will provide the most efficiency for mana sharing.
Climbing and Swimming
These skills become more important with time, particularly climbing. Generally, thirty ranks of each will get you everywhere you want to go, but having that many ranks is unnecessary until much later in life. Five ranks in each by level 20 should suffice for some time.
Survival and First Aid
If one chooses to train in these, their primary application is usually the ability to remove pelts from creatures during hunts. First Aid also reduces roundtime from eating herbs, while Survival can diminish the effects of certain adverse environmental conditions (particularly in the frigid north).
Perception
Most players get at least 24 ranks or so to allow them to find certain hidden paths that are scattered throughout the land and will allow you access to certain hunting grounds. This skill also is a cheap way to increase defenses against some creature maneuver.
Other Skills
Just because a skill isn't mentioned here doesn't mean it's entirely useless. The only skills that serve no purpose are the non-elemental lores. All the other skills can be trained in and garner some ability. Wizards can pick boxes rather well, or train in Combat Maneuvers to disarm their opponents (or gain additional AS and DS bonuses with weapons), or better defend against disarming.
Return to the top of this page.

Spell Training

Most wizards recommend anything between 2x and 3x training in Spell Research. Wizards have three Spell Circles available to them: Major Elemental Spells, Minor Elemental Spells, and Wizard Spells. All three have important spells and how one decides to progress through the lists is a personal choice.

Minor Elemental

This circle is one of the most widely available spell circles. However, it provides a lot of defensive and utility spells that will be important for a Wizard.

Getting these at their respective levels will help keep defenses high. Since the gap between 406 and 414 is rather large, you may want to drop off training after 406 in order to focus on the other two circles.
An excellent set-up spell, it tends to knock down everyone in the room that is NOT joined to the caster's group and give them round time before they can stand back up. Useful, but not vital and can be acquired after 10th level with no adverse consequences.
A spell truly for the masses, is the equivalent of casting Elemental Defense III at each member of the caster's group. It will make you friends, but is not necessary at level 19. In common usage, this spell is often referred to as "guards".
Highly recommended as soon as one reaches level twenty-five because of the bonus it adds to AS and CS. It aids considerably in hunting.
Though handy, the extra defense is not strictly necessary until later. One can wait until well after level 30 to acquire this spell.

Major Elemental

This circle provides several key utility and defensive spells, as well as a few important offensive ones.

A cheap and powerful defensive spell that should be acquired as soon as possible. The color of the specks of light is based on one's attunement.
Hand of Tonis is a relatively weak spell when first acquired, only stunning targets or dissipating clouds. But it gains incredible utility with twenty ranks of Elemental Lore, Air, where a bolt version of the spell becomes available at offensive stances. The Tonis bolt uses unbalance crits, which have a very high knockdown and stun chance.
Not especially important for pure wizards, the spell is still very useful. It can be used to reduce physical roundtimes caused by actions (such as healing herbs, standing up, and rough terrain) as well as those inflicted by certain combat maneuvers or spells. This is a critical spell for War Mages with sufficient training, who may use Haste to swing a weapon with 1 second of RT. It becomes supremely effective once the caster has twenty-four ranks of Elemental Lore, Air and at least twenty-seven Major Elemental spell ranks.
The use of Haste as a combat enhancer is the defining characteristic of the War Mage subtype of wizards, who generally rely on the use of weapons for a majority of their offensive power, rather than using magical attacks.
War Mages find Strength essential, as they use it for its offensive boost with physical attacks (or for a reduction in roundtime with bow use). Other wizards will primarily reap the benefit of increased carrying capacity.
A commonly sought after spells from other classes, this disk is used to hold items so that they do not encumber the owner. Again, not vital at its level, but another important spell.
This is the first spell that a wizard can learn to boost bolt AS, and so bolting wizards should acquire it as soon as possible. Due to the penalty with weapon-based attacks, War Mages will be generally uninterested in its tradeoff.
For casting wizards, Mana Leech is quite possibly the most important spell to get as soon as possible at level 16. It is the best mana returning spell in the game, and helps provide the wizard with enough mana to make a hunt last long enough to fill the head.
Not a vital spell at its level, this is still one of the most powerful spells a Wizard can cast. It hits a large number of creatures with varying of elemental bolts. It can be very useful for destroying swarms of creatures during invasions. Great to show off with. Caution should be observed, however, when this spell is used in invasions. Certain creatures can reflect the Cone back at the caster and all player characters in the room.
Although not generally considered a useful spell, this is one of the most devastating spells available. It summons meteors into both the room in which the spell is cast as well as surrounding rooms. The meteors deal damage to players, creatures, and even the caster. Casting the spell sends a warning to GameMasters due to its potential for abuse. This spell should be used very rarely and with an abundance of caution.
Return to the top of this page.

Wizard Base

This circle contains the majority of a Wizard's offensive power in the form of bolt spells. It also has some of the more profession defining spells such as Call Familiar (920) and Enchant (925).

Bolt spells deal damage to a single enemy based on Spell Aiming ranks and Dexterity bonus. Most Wizards use Minor Acid (904) as their primary bolt until higher levels or against specific creatures. Minor Fire (906) is particularly useful against the undead and in the Icemule Trace and Glacier areas. These are the spells commonly found in iron, silver, aquamarine, crystal, and golden wands.
Ball spells tend to deal less damage than Bolt spells, but they have the advantage of being able to cause multiple flares beyond the first hit. These flares can hit multiple creatures in the room, which makes Ball spells ideal for crowd control. Most Wizards prefer to use Major Fire (908) because of it's higher damage. Major Cold (907) is the spell found in blue wands.
One of the more popular spells among other classes, Mass Blurs affects everyone joined to the caster. It's not vital for a Wizard, but it does make you popular, and helps boost your defenses further.
An excellent defensive spell, this spell will make hunting significantly easier. Acquire it as soon as possible.
Call Familiar allows a player to summon an animal to serve as an ally. Wizards who are attuned to a particular element have the opportunity to summon a wyrdling in addition to the typical mundane animal. Though familiars cannot perform any combat actions, they can deliver messages, watch rooms, carry an item, and find other players. Call Familiar is considered to be a defining spell of the Wizard profession.
Enchant Item allows a player to enchant weapons, shields and armor, increating the bonus to AS for weapons or DS for shields and armor. Enchant Item is limited to increasing the bonus of items to a maximum of plus fifty (+50), with each complete enchantment increasing the bonus of the item by five (5). (However, enchantments above thirty-five (+35) are exceedingly rare and difficult under the current limitations.) Typically trained Wizards who learn this spell at level twenty-five (25) are considered capable of using Enchant Item to bring items to a bonus of plus twenty (+20). Enchant Item is generally considered a defining spell of the Wizard profession.
Familiar Gate allows a player to create a gate between their own location and that of their familiar. While the gate remains open, any player may pass through it to travel between the two locations. The gate remains open for a short period of time, typically a few seconds, or until the player who created it passes through.

Combat Maneuvers

Few non-War Mages train in combat maneuvers, but wizards have access to the following CMAN's:

CMAN Cost Per Rank
CMAN Rank 1 Rank 2 Rank 3 Rank 4 Rank 5
Combat Movement 2 3 4 5 6
Cunning Defense 2 3 4 5 6
Dirtkick 2 4 6 8 10
Disarm Weapon 2 4 6 8 10
Feint 2 4 6 8 10
Groin Kick 2 4 6 8 10
Precision 4 6 - - -
Retreat 2 4 6 8 10
Stance Perfection 4 8 - - -
Trip 2 4 6 8 10
Unarmed Specialist 6 - - - -

Wizard Statistic Growth Rates

For more information see the page on statistic growth rates.

Wizard Stat Growth Rates
Profession Strength Constitution Dexterity Agility Discipline Aura Logic Intuition Wisdom Influence
Wizard 10 15 25 15 20 30 25 25 20 20

Note: The table above is the baseline statistic growth rates. These values are actually modified for every race in GemStone IV, including humans.

Return to the top of this page.

Resources

Officials Folders
Guides
Wizard Profession - edit
Spell Circles: Wizard Base Spells | Major Elemental Spells | Minor Elemental Spells
Professional Highlights: Bolt spells | Call Familiar | Enchanting | Charge Item
Popular Archetypes: Pure Mage | War Mage | Enchanter


Profession - edit
Squares: Rogue | Warrior | Monk
Semis: Bard | Paladin | Ranger
Pures: Cleric | Empath | Sorcerer | Wizard