They can use staves because they are walking sticks. They don't use them like martial artists; think more like an old woman hitting a mugger with her purse.
If I really want an arcane caster that can wield a club, I can always choose to play a multi- or dual-class F/M (or a Blade, for that matter). So if this was a mod I don't think I would be interested.
This is one of those things I disagree with in 2E, weapon restrictions. Anyone should be able to use a club, its the most basic of weapons to use. If a mage can use a dagger, they should certainly be able to use a club, to clobber people with.
Comments
He eats a live spider when he casts a certain spell.
He walks around in a bath robe.
"Dignity"? No, he sold that long ago in his quest for cosmic power.