Pls explain how early summoning spells are useful

[jutetrea]

I'm a definite MP noob, but have played quite a bit SP. The only summons i use frequently are the mini-army's - call of the wild, horde from hell, sea troll, earth troll groupings...occasionally call of the winds. All these usually under duress (or sea troll for amph usage).

My most frequent use is to get the bridge for another +magic item for bigger spells. i.e. i have a 3 earth + 2 boosters, get a 4 earth, so then have a 4E + 2 boosters, etc, etc.

Its SP, so I can usually do the initial land grab, then try not to annoy anyone till i've got my paths figured out - hopefully without using my pretender (so he's either taking indy's or forging).

Astral is a bit tough - who's the best bridge with no/low national astrals? ether mage/lord? Same with earth, bugger can't wear boots so need the book or a multi to get a good boost. A rare empowerment will make the jump as well, although I generally hoard my gems till someone annoys me.