1) Is "Open Lock" for sure gone? (I don't mind the lockpicking minigame)

2) Any reason not to use Heavy Armor as a mage? I notice that most robes have the magica regen on them, but can't I just enchant heavy armor with the same regen? Or is there some way to beef up robes for more protection?

I'd like to know this as well

I haven't got too far in the game, so I've no idea if Open Lock is in, and I'm using Heavy Armor (Though I'm a battlemage so it makes sense) So I can't help you with that either. For me, I don't run out of mana quickly, I guess I don't mind the regen too much.

1. Yes, it's gone.

2. There's another thread on this, already. Still on the first page. If you want to enchant armor with the same thing as a robe, that's going to require heavy enchant perk and skill investment. But then again, that's the entire point of heavy investment in enchanting. You'll still have weight issues, unless you start putting points in stamina or the armor perks.

Ok. If I want to wear robes, how can I beef up my protection on them? Would rather not invest points in armor to reduce their weight. Or, should I rely on spells to protect me? If so, which ones?

Thanks!

Alteration, you can get some pretty sick mage armors (i believe the full perked master level one gives ~ 300 armor)

I'd say screw beefing up your protection. Get a good summon.

Though I am using heavy armor boots, gloves, and a light armor helmet. The helmet only because it has a nice enchant.