[Baalz]

Hmmm, I guess those shadow blast detractors haven't seen how effective it can be. I've seen it be very effective when properly used.

1) As mentioned above it's just for large battles - just like most any gem requiring spell

2) Having one powerful D mage is nice, but I find it's also very effective to spread out and have 2-3 mid level D casters each cast it once. Opening round of a fight, have 3 D2 guys with eyes of the void fire shadow blasts from the front line (each only has 1 D gem). The effect on human level MR troops is absolutely devastating even if some of it misses and it cost you three gems plus risking some cheap mages. Not bad at all for a big fight.