Few things, first I was a mage in Oct 1999, the pet spells you are saying where not in the game, where in the game in strange locations like the Ocean of Tears. One pet, I do believe it was 24 was research only. After that though 28+could still be bought though it was only one of the four at any given level until I think 48? was research only don't quote me on that.
No that is said, mages OP? No, a naked bard with a drum and brass horn will out EXP us and be more useful in a group. Same goes for Necro's, druids, and several other classes. As a mage I found the best thing to do since most groups didn't want me and at least 30% of the time didn't let me summon a pet, was to out door dou with a Necro. Mages are 'Okay' solo but shine with another mage and one or two necro's. The power of pets is DRAMATICALLY better the more pet classes that team up to fear kite. So if you have an SO and one of you want to role a mage, one of you should consider Necro/Druid/Cleric/Shaman/Mage for the partner.
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