The Mage class in magic-oriented games can still be very efficient without good gear. They fear the most the ranged attack DPS classes. They don't fear at all those classes that rush in to melee (at least not until level 36). In Mage PKs, are you flying yet? After Mages can no longer one-shot opponents with a continuous skill combo from 4-6 skills, our only advantage will be our wings. Therefore, the blue book for level 30 Mages is less of a priority. First, you need to buy a pair of wings, for flying.