Differences with previous KB titles?

[Belgarath]

Movement keys = Yes (not sure about strafing), keybindings i have never tried...
As for direct damage, spells like Blizzard/Geyser are still worth it with max int, Destruction etc...
But utility spells are also good (things like fear, sheep, blind etc)

My Mage runs have mostly been a lot of ranged units (Inquisitors, Demonologists, Rune Mages, Archmages) and one tank (supported by summoned Demons from the Demonologists)... An opening salvo of 2x Blizzard (the last one on max strength) will weaken the enemy enough that your ranged units can mop up the rest, this has worked for me even on impossible...