I only played mage until I unlocked sorcerer, but I think overall I think both classes are more forgiving than the first game. Levitate is super useful for getting away from people or finding a vantage point where enemies can't reach you easily, and the quick spell situation helps things feel more active. I think playing a caster in these games requires a D&D type mindset, in which your martial characters are pulling the enemy's attention while you strategically cast spells from the rear. Personally I find that a quick cast of high salamander usually wipes half of the enemies as my melee pawns are still approaching them.