How do you survive without Anders in Dragon Age 2?

Answer 1

Playing a mage yourself really helps. Ander's is very versatile. He can either be devestating through attack spells, or incredibley supporting through healing spells.

However, if you choose another class other than Mage, Bethany should be with you. There shouldn't be a time in the game when you can't have either a destructive or healer mage in your group. Don't forget that you can respec your characters through the Tomes in the Black Emporium! Play with them until you're satisfied with your group setup.

Answer 2

If you're not a mage yourself, turn Merrill into a healer and level her "spirit healer" tree up like crazy.

Answer 3

I hate Anders, he's a horrible healer. So I made my own mage do all the healing.