The Mage class in WoW Classic Fresh has always been a fan favorite and is known for its versatility, high damage output, and unique utility. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to Azeroth, this guide will cover the strengths and weaknesses of the Mage, Best-in-Slot (BiS) gear, gold farming strategies, and leveling tips.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Mage
Strengths:
1. High Damage Output: Mages excel in both single-target and AoE (Area of Effect) damage, making them a top choice for leveling, dungeons, and raids.
2. Crowd Control: With spells like Polymorph and Frost Nova, Mages can control the battlefield effectively.
3. Utility: Portals, food, and water conjuration make Mages invaluable to groups and raids.
4. Mobility: Blink and Frost spells allow Mages to kite enemies and escape dangerous situations.
5. Gold Farming: AoE farming capabilities make Mages one of the best classes for earning WoW Classic 20th Anniversary gold.
Weaknesses:
1. Fragility: Mages are a "glass cannon" class, meaning they deal high damage but have low health and armor.
2. Mana Dependency: Managing mana efficiently is crucial, as running out can leave you vulnerable.
3. Gear Dependency: While leveling, Mages rely heavily on gear upgrades to maintain their damage output.
Best-in-Slot (BiS) Gear for Mages
BiS gear is essential for maximizing your performance in endgame content. Here's a quick overview:
1. Pre-Raid BiS
Head: Spellweaver's Turban (Scholomance)
Chest: Robe of the Archmage (Tailoring)
Weapon: Staff of Dominance (Molten Core)
2. Raid BiS
Head: Netherwind Crown (Molten Core)
Chest: Netherwind Robes (Blackwing Lair)
Weapon: Azuresong Mageblade (Molten Core) with an off-hand like Tome of Arcane Domination.
3. Enchants
Prioritize Spell Power, Intellect, and Mana Regeneration enchants.
Gold Farming Guide for Mages
Mages are exceptional gold farmers due to their AoE capabilities. Here are some strategies:
1. AoE Farming Spots
Eastern Plaguelands: Farm undead mobs for Runecloth and gold.
Zul'Farrak: AoE farm mobs for loot and gold.
Stratholme: Clear undead packs for valuable items and gold.
2. Professions
Herbalism: Gather herbs like Black Lotus and Dreamfoil for high profits.
Enchanting: Disenchant items for materials to sell at the Auction House.
3. Dungeon Runs
Offer paid runs for lower-level players in dungeons like Scarlet Monastery or Maraudon.
4. Auction House Mastery
Buy low and sell high. Focus on consumables like potions and flasks, which are always in demand.
Leveling Tips for Mages
Leveling a Mage can be one of the fastest experiences in Classic Fresh if done correctly. Here are some tips:
Spec Choice
Frost Spec: Ideal for AoE grinding and survivability. Talents like Improved Blizzard and Frostbite make it easier to control large groups of enemies.
Fire Spec: Best for single-target damage, especially in questing scenarios. Start with Improved Fireball and Flame Throwing.
Arcane Spec: Offers utility but is less efficient for leveling compared to Frost or Fire.
AoE Grinding
Start AoE grinding at level 22 when you unlock Improved Blizzard. Focus on densely packed mobs like Gnolls in Wetlands or Murlocs in Westfall.
Use Frost Nova to freeze enemies, then kite them with Blizzard or Arcane Explosion. For faster progression, consider enjoying the WoW Classic Anniversary boosting service to skip tedious grind phases and dive straight into the action!
Wand Progression
Invest in a good wand early on, as it helps conserve mana. Examples include the Lesser Magic Wand (crafted) and Cookie's Stirring Rod (Deadmines drop).
Efficient Questing
Combine quests in the same area to minimize travel time. Use Blink to move faster between objectives.
Mana Management
Always carry plenty of food and water. Conjure your own to save gold.
Conclusion
The Mage class is a powerhouse in WoW Classic 20th Anniversary, offering unparalleled damage, utility, and gold-farming potential. While it has its challenges, such as fragility and mana dependency, mastering the Mage can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you're leveling, raiding, or farming gold, this guide should set you on the path to success. Happy casting!
