Play as an Elf with Katana and Wired Reflexes. You will be able to deflect bullets, and if you get behind someone unaware, they will bleed out. Pair this with smoke and you will almost never die.
Recommended weapons
Use Smartlink with a rifle (regular), and also buy a shotgun. You will be able to destroy almost anything with this combo. Do not buy a rocket launcher as it is not worth the hefty price. Even though it is strong, its lack of ammo cancels its usefulness.
Recommended magic
Buy Resurrect; this is one of the most useful spells. Teleport can be also be useful at times.