The leader role needs healing according to the PHB. However, I agree that it should be somehow different – I like the idea of surge plus defense buff. I don’t think he ought to “throw tea at you”. It should probably incorporate an artifice somehow.
But speaking of artifices, I don’t quite understand how they are created. Are they created at the moment the power is used, like a free action or are they created at extended rests like the other materials? They can be reused if not destroyed, but what’s the point of being able to reuse one if they are created instantly? If they aren’t created instantly, then when are they created? Does it float? Does it take damage from AoE? Can someone else pick it up and run?
Repair Object… so it’s basically unlimited outside of combat? He can repair a nearly destroyed castle wall given he has enough time? Are there other ‘rotes’ out there in theory? Maybe via feat?
I don’t really understand his use of implements. Essentially, if he has one, he can use it’s magic enhancement on powers and use its daily (if it has it) – got it. What other benefit does it have for him? As someone said above, their awkward to use with a ranged weapon… put away implement (minor) reload crossbow (minor) use power (standard)… oops no more actions to move the artifice Why not have, instead, some kind of ‘artificer holy symbol’?
He should get a pet when they become available.
A lot of the powers are very controller, see Caustic Rampart, Predatory Shards
Earth’s Embrace should be called Bowling for Chumps