[Uh-Nu-Buh]

Seems like we have two different scenarios here:

1. supercombatant (hero, pretender, etc.), characterized by high hitpoints and the ability to dish it and take it.
2. mages (rainbow pretender, great sage, archmage, etc.), who can dish it out, but they can't take it.

I believe there are a number of good strategies for a supercombatant to take. However, mages are in for a beating unless they are lucky--and plan carefully....