I really like going with a mage build. It took some getting used to, but it's a lot of fun once you get it figured out. I don't think it's necessarily stronger overall, but the change in playstyle is fun. Certain things it's better at, others worse. I run full Eitr armor, 1 hp food and 2 Eitr food. The last update made it a bit stronger as well, especially with another staff added.