Based on the conversations in this section of the fourm,there is no doubt in my mind that mages are meant to spam dual wielded wand attacks
That works (and is pretty essential sometimes) until level 3 or so, yes.
Once you get to level 4 you have far better options.
Once you get to level 9 or later you would be mad to do that. You are doing far less damage and basically ignoring the (limited) advantages of being a mage.
If you are only using your basic attack in later levels then you'll find it hard. I did do a playthorough as Fane with warfare and staff. It was fun but not that efficient really. I died quite a lot.
