Black Mage Sanctuary - A Guide to DPS

[Garotte14]

Just to Echo what a few others have said:

Yes, Flare opener is outdated. It was viable in 3.0 because of the 10s AF and the low Spell Speed. Now, the only time it would be beneficial, would be on multiple targets as others have said.

Also, I've started using the opener where you cast 4 Fire IVs in a row on fights where I know I won't be moving during the opener. It is definitely a very potent opener and incredibly strong if you get the second proc. I would still suggest using the standard one if there is a chance you will have to move during your opener. But if you know you're good for the first 30s, I highly suggest using it. Here are both openers with the differences:

Use if you will not have to move
SC > QS > LL > Fire > Enochian + Raging Strikes > F3P > Potion > Fire IVx2 > Fire(no proc) > Fire IV > SC > Fire IV + Convert > Fire IVx2 > Blizzard III > T1 > Blizzard IV.

SC > QS > LL > Fire > Enochian + Raging Strikes > F3P > Potion > Fire IVx2 > Fire(procs) > Fire IV > F3P + SC > Fire IV + Convert > Fire IVx2 > Blizzard III > Thunder > Blizzard IV.

Use if there is potential movement
SC > QS > LL > Fire > Enochian + Raging Strikes > F3P > Potion > Fire IVx3 > Fire(no proc) > SC > Fire IV + Convert > Fire IVx2 > Blizzard III > T1 > Blizzard IV.

SC > QS > LL > Fire > Enochian + Raging Strikes > F3P > Potion > Fire IVx3 > Fire(procs) > SC > Fire IV + Convert > Fire IVx2 > Blizzard III > Thunder > Blizzard IV.

The PPS between both openers where you don't get the proc are in fact identical. The first is riskier because you'll cast Fire IVx4 w/o refreshing AF. It is doable but definitely not worth losing AF if you get targeted by an AoE.

However, if you do get the proc, you can weave both Swiftcast and Convert under instant casts. This greatly increases PPS.