Mage

Mages are the default choice for those who wish to play a magic based character. They are intelligence based arcane spell casters and can therefore choose which spells they research when they increase in level. Mages can choose any two realms of magic to cast spells from. As characters who primarily rely on magic, mages are weak in melee combat, and as with other arcane casters they are unable to wear heavy armour without it reducing their mana.

A Mage must live by their wits. They cannot hope to simply hack their way through the dungeon, and so must therefore use his magic to defeat, deceive, confuse, and escape. A mage is not really complete without an assortment of magical devices to use in addition to his spells. They can master the higher level magical devices far easier than anyone else, and has the excellent saving throws to resist effects of spells cast at him. However, they are incredibly weak, getting few hit dice and suffering strong penalties to strength and constitution. Intelligence is their primary stat and at high levels they can cast many spells without a chance of failure. There is no rule that says a mage cannot become a good fighter, but spells are their true realm and they will get fewer blows with melee weapons than other classes.