I really don't see how anyone can dispute that melee gain more from gear than casters. Caster itemization in classic EQ is simply terrible. I mean, lets think about this:
- Classic: casters get pure stat gear, it's pointless
- Kunark: VP/Epic clickies are nice, but meh
- Velious: FT is +1-3 mana per tick (+3-10%). OK, we're getting warmer.
- Luclin: Finally Verant implements focus effects and gear starts to matter.