How to Build Mages in Smite (Overpowered)

For starters, let's get some things clear. Mages are some of the hardest gods to play in Smite. A similar issue comes up as in our article on how to build Assassins in Smite. Mages come in many different shapes and sizes, and they can all be built differently. But the main 3 are basic attack mages, burst mages, and support mages.

How to Build a Basic Attack Mage

But first. What is a basic attack mage?

Agni is a good example of a basic attack mage in Smite. Most of his damage output comes from his basic attacks and is supported by his spellcasting abilities. So the philosophy behind these kinds of mages is that you want to build items that boost their basic attacks somehow. Increasing the damage you do, increasing your attack speed, adding an effect to your basic attacks. These are the things you want to look out for.

But let's take a look at an example, shall we?

Basic Attack Mage Example Build

It's important to mention that this is just an example. As in our discussion about Items in Smite, take time to learn the items and what they do. You have to be capable to adapt to the situation in an instant.

For Agni here, it's always a good idea to start out with a conduit gem and some purification beads as starting items, as well as some potions. In the beginning, you'll be very squishy and your damage output will be laughable. But with time, you'll be a force that strikes fear in your opponent... you just have to survive until that time comes. Purification Beads go a long way in that regard. As well as the Midgardian Mail, but that's something you'll have to consider after you've gotten at least 1 or 2 of your core items.

Speaking about core items. Develop your Conduit Gem into a Gem of Focus as soon as you can. Trust me, it will help... a lot. Personally, after that, I like to go after the Staff of Myrddin. But after that, you can build whatever you like. Although I'd probably go for Bancroft's Talon last, if at all. As said previously, adapt to the situation at hand. Another item might take priority over it. Always have one item in your build that you don't necessarily need. That way, that slot can be occupied by practically any item. Although usually, it's a smart idea to build a movement speed item in this slot.

How to Build a Burst Mage in Smite

Now, what are burst mages you may ask?

Good ol' Zeus above is a good example of a burst mage. Burst mages tend to do all their damage in short bursts, after which they need a while to regain their full damage potential. Usually, you see them in the mid lane.

With burst mages, you almost always want to go with a glass cannon build. High power, high lethality baby! Some of the best mages fall into this category. If dealing damage is the name of the game, then these kinds of gods reign supreme.

But in all seriousness. Burst mages are probably the most customizable mages out there, as they can be a pretty good jack of all trades. You can build them with a lot of magical power, or you can build them with a lot of mana and use items that translate that mana pool into magical power. But let's take a look at an example.

Burst Mage Example Build

This example will focus on a glass cannon build, so take notes.

Pick up a Conduit Gem and Heavenly Wings for starter, as well as some potions. You want to get in and out of position quickly. Head in a straight line, deal damage and retreat before you get hit by a crowd control. Heavenly Wings are perfect for that end.

Grab the Spear of the Magus first, as you want to be able to deal more damage to enemies right from the get-go. Some players claim that the Spear of Desolation is better, but that's only the case if the mage in question has a spammable ability that helps them deal heavy damage.

After that, you can either get the Rod of Tahuti for a straight-up increase in magical power or alternatively, the Obsidian Shard to add potency to your bursts. Now that you've built up a respectable burst potential, it's time to pick up the Book of Thoth and start building those stacks up! 10 mana per stack really builds up over time. You can finish the build with the Soul Reaver and Mantle of Discord. You know, as a cherry on top.

How to Build Support Mages in Smite

We talk about how to build Support gods in Smite in detail in our article on the topic, here, we'll just look at the basics.

Aphrodite is a good example of a support Mage. She won't be the greatest damage dealer in the team, as she lacks the abilities to do so. Yet, if all else fails, she'll be great moral support too.

The philosophy behind support mages is a bit different than the other roles. With them, you want to build items that help out your team and that help you survive and stay in the fight longer. Purchase items that give you cooldown reduction, consumable items, and other one time use items. Anything that helps out your team in team fights. Let's take a look at an example.

Support Mage Example Build

Here are some bog standard items that can help with this.

At the start, you probably want to pick up Sands of Time and Cloak of Meditation, both can be a great item for any support. You should always keep an eye on your mana, as you always want to have some to spare for critical situations. A mana build is an alternative, but getting maximum mana isn't a priority. And to end it all, the Cloak of Meditation is an all-around handy support item.

After that, it really comes down to your situation. If the enemy team has a lot of gods that can burst you down quickly, you might want to invest in a Breastplate of Valor for starters, as well as a Magi's Cloak if they have CC. Other than that, if you're dominating your lane for the whole game, then getting a Fae-Blessed Hoops will help out your partner greatly. Your last item should be either the Lotus Crown or Celestial Legion Helm as needed. Remember, the longer you can stay in the fight - the better. Your hard work can create those make-or-break situations that either win or lose the game.