Squidlipticus's page

In nearly every video game ever, the caster is the highest offense/lowest defense option there is. The concept of a glass cannon inspires thoughts of frail old men dropping meteors down on the battlefield.

My question: Is this a viable option in pathfinder? Can caster dpr compare to those of other classes?

I understand the value of utility and control over damage and I am not here to debate that. What I want to know is: Can a damage caster perform the duties it is taking on well enough to replace other ranged dpr builds?

What is the best way to go, damage wise?
-burst damage
-damage over time
-single target
-area of effect
-damage types
-metamagic
-word spells

This thread was inspired by the spell "contagious flame". Reading that spell exploded me with happy.

I can come up with great character concepts for melee-types but am turned off every time but the idea of swinging a weapon day-in and day-out.

Casters give me the chance to change up my offense every day and keep combat fresh and exciting. I really do want to play something else, though.

Is there some way to overcome this idea of being bored with melee combat? Am I doomed to being repulsed by the idea of playing fighters and the like?

Anyone with heavy experience playing pure melee characters please respond.
A new outlook on my problem is needed if I am to overcome this.