First Impressions from the D&D 4E "Test Drive"

[JohnSnow]

Yeah, Acid Arrow's main benefit is just in being acid damage. Which means it can be a nice Spellbook option for those times when you know in advance you'll be facing foes with fire resistance.

That said, splash damage (especially ongoing splash damage), which Acid Arrow does provide can be pretty handy in certain situations.

 

[Budalic]

As far as the level 1 Wizard dailies go, I prefer Grease. It's daily, so waiting for opportunity to cast it for maximum effect isn't a problem, an it can totally block a chokepoint.

And pre-March errata Orb of Imposition wizard would be most powerful in a 2-3 man party - locking down most/all of monsters is a best tactic. While I think that warlord + striker/fighter party is now most potent, wizard would still be terrific in a small party. Powers like Grease, Visions of Avarice, Visions of Ruin, Illusory wall for control, with the Staff of Defense and defensive awesomeness of Shield and Wizard's Escape are made of win.
And don't get me started on Wizard|Swordmage.

 

[Herschel]

Controllers rock, but only in a party of three or more, IMO. The striker is the easiest role to do without in a small party as it even points out in the PHB. It's generally easier to build other roles with credible damage than build strikers to make up for other roles (although Warlock as controller and Avenger as defending leader can work pretty well). Hybrid characters also are an interesting mix.