Optimizing Skill- and Synergy-Levels

[GenericKen]

The missing factor in these optimizations is mana use.

Given a mana pool / cast rate / % regen bonuses (including a handy box for slevel warmth) - I would like to know how many consecutive seconds I can spam the spell in question before running out of mana. Potion use is all fine and good, but if you can get very similar damage without needing to return to town to restock on mana potions, then that in my mind is closer to "optimal".

Factor in the rarity (hopefully) of SOJs during early ladder play, and people playing caster types may realize that using a less than maxed primary spell with maxed synergies/mastery (or a constant mana use primary spell) may be the way to maximize their kills per playing session, despite the damage per cast not being totally optimal.

The trouble with throwing a factor like mana use into a calculator would be that people's expecations of reasonable mana use can vary alot. Things like how much downtime between fights people give themselves, and how good they are at picking up mana potions as monsters drop them all vary what drain rates are optimal.

OK. Done with my rambling. Great calculator BTW. :)

You're asking for an entirely different sort of calculator man.

Besides, most of us get by simply eyeballing our mana usage. There are only so many really mana-intensive skills.