[Pirengle]

If you're looking to play a straight mage (no dual- or multi-classing), I suggest Conjurer, because its opposition school, Divination, isn't as crippling as the others. (Since when are you going to need to memorize Clairvoyance?)

If you're looking to multiclass, Illusionist might be the way to go. A minimum of 16 DEX works well with a thief multiclass. (At higher levels, Jan rules. [img]tongue.gif[/img] ) Gnomes are the only race that can multiclass a kit, and only because gnomish mages can only be illusionists.

If you're looking to dual-class, the ultimate spam lay in the kensai/mage combo. Affectionally called kensages, these juggernauts recieve all the APR, weapon proficiencies, and kai perks of a kensai, AND can wear mage robes. The game doesn't count robes as armor, per se. If you don't want to be that cheesy, an assassin/mage or a cleric/mage still pack plenty of firepower.

Have you considered a bard? (Disregard Haer'Dalis--he's not a stellar example.) Bards make decent archers or fighters if you build them right, and can memorize the best combat-oriented spells or even cast them from scrolls. Bards can also use wands. If you plan to take a fighter-heavy party, the Bard Song can and WILL save your life! (Or at least time.)

Wild Mages are found only in the expansion pack, Throne of Bhaal.