Yes, currently it's more advantageous to use spells instead of runes, wherever possible, as the damage output ends up being superior.
However, some factors need to be taken into consideration:
- Cave layout: In places with very narrow corridors and/or where it's more difficult to move freely to use spells, runes remain a good option.
- Gameplay: Not every player can use spells efficiently. Druids have the advantage of being able to use forks without much effort, while Sorcerers need to know how to position themselves to use waves and beans. Death Echo is also a spell that requires practice. For comfort, some players (especially sorcerers) will choose to continue hunting with runes.
Furthermore, during hunts involving large pulls of creatures, runes can still be a better option due to their larger area of effect compared to spells like Death Echo and Forks. So, depending on your hunting style, it might be worthwhile to mix the use of spells and runes.
- Creature resistances: If sorcerers hunt in areas where creatures are resistant to the elements fire, energy, and death, they will most likely have to use avalanche or stoneshower runes. If druids hunt in areas where creatures are resistant to the ice and earth elements, they will most likely have to use great fireball or thunderstorm runes.
