In Dark Souls 2, players are presented with a rich and diverse magical system that includes four distinct schools: Sorcery, Miracles, Pyromancy, and Hexes. Each of these schools features unique attributes, casting styles, and corresponding playstyles that greatly influence how characters are built and how they interact with the game world.

Sorcery
Sorcery is characterized by soul-based arcane magic, placing a strong emphasis on Intelligence (INT) for scaling. Sorcerers primarily cast offensive spells, utilities, and buffs to enhance their own capabilities in combat or to impair enemies. Casting sorceries is done using staves, which require careful management of casting speed and spell selection. With spells that can deal considerable damage from a distance, sorcerers tend to excel in ranged combat strategies.

Miracles
Miracles are rooted in holy and lightning magic, primarily scaling with Faith (FTH). This school encompasses a variety of spells, including healing spells, buffs that enhance ally abilities, and lightning-based attack spells. Miracles are cast using chimes or talismans, providing unique enchantments and bolstering defenses either for the caster or allies during multiplayer interactions. This school is particularly appealing for players who enjoy supporting their team while also being able to deal damage.

Pyromancy
Pyromancy uniquely bridges Intelligence and Faith, scaling with both attributes equally to support a flexible build system. This fire-based magic allows for high offensive capabilities, typically at short to medium ranges. Pyromancers utilize the Pyromancy Flame or the Dark Pyromancy Flame for casting, and while the spells themselves have no strict casting requirements, their effectiveness is directly correlated to the combined INT+FTH values. Pyromancy is favored for its powerful damage output, although players must factor in the relatively longer casting times and shorter ranges when employing these spells in battle.

Hexes
Hexes represent a fusion of dark, soul-based magic, offering unique versatility as they scale with whichever is lower between Intelligence or Faith. This school is notable for its mix of offensive spells dealing dark damage and debuffs that can reduce enemy effectiveness. Hexes can be cast using a variety of tools, including staves and chimes; some special catalysts like Caitha’s Chime or the Black Witch Staff can even facilitate the casting of multiple magic types. Hexes appeal to players who appreciate a more tactical and strategic playstyle, allowing for innovative and adaptive combat approaches in varying situations.

Conclusion
In summary, the four distinct schools of magic in Dark Souls 2 encourage players to engage with the game world in diverse and tactical ways, aligning their builds and strategies with specific attributes and spellcasting methods. Whether a player prefers the raw power of Sorcery, the support capabilities of Miracles, the damaging potential of Pyromancy, or the multifunctional nature of Hexes, there is an opportunity for different playstyles and character developments throughout the intricate world of Dark Souls 2.