Wizard Patch

The Wizard Patch was a patch against NetHack 3.2.0 through NetHack 3.2.3. The stated intent was to make wizards more like wizards and not just a particularly weak fighter-type class.

Highlights
The main features of the Wizard Patch were:


 * The wizard's starting weapon was changed from an athame to a quarterstaff.


 * Spells were made subject to skill level, much as weapons were.


 * Different classes could gain skill with different kinds of spell.


 * Spells were remembered for a limited duration, and could be cast an unlimited number of times within that period, subject to magical energy. Previously, spells worked rather like wands, being castable a limited number of times.


 * Cone of cold and fireball became explosions when cast at Skilled or better.


 * Jumping and protection spells were added.

The Wizard Patch did not add restrictions due to shields or metal armor; those were already present starting with NetHack 3.2.0.

Legacy
The Wizard Patch was entirely merged into mainline NetHack starting with NetHack 3.3.0. SLASH accepted it at an earlier date, and the name added the "EM" designation for Extended Magic, giving the modern name SLASH'EM. SLASH as such is no longer under development.