just got it and was wondering

can I play as a mage and set him up as I go to be a ranger(archer/mage hybrid?

<font color="yellow">Of course you can. I started out with a warrior but by the end of the game, he was more of a mage-thief. Feel free to distribute your skill points. Even so, its best to choose wisely and try not waste points on a skill that you don't plan on using often.</font color>

Yes you can but be warned most of the best weapons in the game are swords. Bows are good too but the good ones quite rare.