I have to agree. It bothers me a little that I have a cudgel and it is used like a wand. (For the record, I played a White Mage in XI).

But here is something interesting, and I want to know what you think, Ark. The way the system is now, we have mostly instant-cast spells, and most of the spells in the game aren't worth casting. I sort of miss the way that mages were played in their previous, successful MMO. I miss Black Mages taking their time to cast magic, and the nessecity of strategy, knowing when to cast a spell.

For example, Gravity is almost worthless to me. I can't kite the mob around, because I'm constantly locked on / active mode. I really felt like one of the unique characteristics of a mage was that they were a part of the battle, without being in the front line. It really is frustrating that I have to pull out my magical club that I can't beat things in the face with, before I can cast a heal.

Obviously, with Active/Passive mode as it is, it would be broken to allow mages to cast without getting into Active mode / locking on to the target. As if we could stay in passive mode, our MP would automatically regenerate. But I honestly feel that, (aside from our spells being semi-worthless, as I only cast heals when in group, and just spirit dart/punishing barbs when soloing), the distinction between Mage and Melee starts with the active/passive system.

Thoughts? Or am I just crazy?

Also, can we make buffs last longer than 3-4 minutes? Please? I hate that I cast them almost every single fight....