Priced at 17 points, the Taskmage Explorer sits at an average model Recruitment Cost. With a Limit of two, you can field a powerful duo of Taskmages covering each other’s backs. The Mage Class, a staple in the Sand Kingdoms, provides access to Mana and some rerolls, while the Wizard Class offers potent rerolls whenever casting Elder Element Spells—and spoiler alert: the Taskmage exclusively uses Elder Spells, unless upgraded. Her Stats are standard for the Sand Kingdoms, a mix I like to call a “dumpster fire.” We see exceptionally low Stats across the field, with the notable exceptions of a high INT of 14 and a decent AG of 12. The rest, including the abysmally common ARM of 0 and HP of 1, are well below average, indicating that this model doesn’t fare well under attrition.

Her Skills and Traits underscore the utility of the model: Tracking I aids in revealing Shrouded models and other secrets; Survival (Scorching) offers situational field advantages; Stealth I facilitates maneuvering; and Resourceful I allows access to more than one Upgrade.

The Taskmage’s utility shines through her Spells. Wizardry III grants her access to six Spells, each uniquely beneficial. Mana Burst, her only damaging Spell, is a strong defensive tool with Stagger and a Wizard reroll. Dispel Magic removes Summons, Enchantments, Shrouded States, and other magical nuisances. Confuse Target allows the user to swap 1 Mana for STK of 3 in the Reactive Role, while also applying a crippling debuff on the opponent. Ward acts as a magical Dodge that can protect allies or the caster, while Redirect Damage also dodges Attacks and has a chance to reflect damage back to the assailant, though it is less reliable than Ward. Finally, Hastened Recovery heals up to 2 HP or removes nearly every harmful State.

This diverse toolkit allows the Taskmage to perform myriad tasks on the field, primarily enabling your fragile models to last longer by providing defensive magic and healing any damage that slips through. Hence, a duo of Taskmages protecting each other is incredibly effective! And as a Mercenary, she is available to all factions.