The great RDM vs Bluemage debate... Well, I see both jobs in totally different light. Though, a blue Mage has better physical spells(cheaper mp, less casting time)...blues have greater TP gain(mob) and greater enimity gain...plus their magical spells are ridiculously long casted with low damage.

Redmages, have access to slow nukes, but are pretty strong when they hit. With enspells, Redmages hit are the same level as blue ages, on normal melee swings. Chainspell, can drop most mobs by a quick amount. And RDM's aren't tied down by "blue points" and spell selection. Between break and sleep, RDM can do a nifty job of keeping mobs down, just as much as a headbutt can.

Both job are dependent on their sub job selection. Both can increase melee and magical damage based on gear choices. And both can fill in "support" slots.

Blue is more solo orientated, while RDM's take a more direct approach with party aid.