MMOexp: Killing an elite variant often drops better Dark and Darker Items

NormalGoblin Mage

The standard Goblin Mage is a ranged enemy that mixes offensive magic with powerful support abilities. He poses a threat even on his own, but is particularly dangerous when surrounded by other goblins that benefit from Dark And Darker Gold his support buffs.

Abilities:

  Homing Arcane Bolt – A long-range projectile that follows its target. On impact, it deals magic damage and applies a slow debuff. More dangerously, this slow also negates all healing, both natural and potion-based. This effect can quickly turn the tide of battle, especially if you rely on healing over time.

  Goblin Empowerment Buff – An AoE channel spell that increases the movement speed, attack speed, and restores health to nearby goblins. This buff has a long windup, leaving the mage vulnerable.

How to Counter:

  Dodge the Homing Bolt: Side-strafe to the left or right when you see the projectile cast. Alternatively, rush the mage and circle strafe to the right to avoid being hit at close range.

  Interrupt the Buff: When the Goblin Mage begins casting the AoE buff, close the distance quickly. The spell has a long casting animation, providing the perfect opportunity to burst the mage down before he empowers his allies.

Defeating the Goblin Mage often rewards you with valuable mid-tier Dark and Darker Items and small but useful piles of Dark and Darker Gold, making him a worthwhile target even in standard dungeon runs.

Elite Goblin Mage

The Elite Goblin Mage takes all the traits of the normal version and turns up the danger level. His spells hit harder, his cast times are shorter, and his health pool is significantly larger.

What's Different:

  Higher Damage Output – The homing projectile now inflicts more damage and makes healing nearly impossible during the fight.

  Quicker Buff Cast – The empowerment spell is harder to interrupt due to a faster windup.

  Tougher to Kill – Elite mages are usually flanked by other goblins, making them a support pillar in many enemy packs.

Tactics:

  Prioritize Elites: If an elite Goblin Mage is buffing nearby foes, focus fire on him immediately.

  Bring Interrupt Skills: Classes with Buy Dark and Darker Items silences, knockbacks, or crowd-control can drastically reduce the mage's effectiveness.

  Keep Moving: Constant motion and smart positioning are your best defense against his homing projectile.

Killing an elite variant often drops better Dark and Darker Items, and you'll also find larger stashes of Dark and Darker Gold, especially if he was protecting a mini-boss chest or altar.