The alchemist is best thought of as a sort of mad scientist employing potions, elixirs, crazy contraptions, and more. As such, they are considered casters along with wizards, mages, necromancers and enchanters. Given the need to protect themselves from the occasional splash of acid or other noxious brew, alchemists have access to leather armors—unlike the other caster classes who at best wear cloth armor. Likewise, they have extended their frequent use of a mortar and pestle to include the use of hammers and maces in combat. They also have potions they can give to their comrades to increase their effectiveness (or “buff” them) as well as to speed travel. Of course, they also have a variety of explosive and noxious potions to assault foes with. Basically, they should be considered a heavy damage support class.
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