You can use the same strategy that I posted on the thread below. The one on getting Magmawalker.
I feel Magmawalker is intended to be used as an alternative to Winterheart, so the players can choose to equip some other accessory.
I think we have enough gambling elements in the game ;)
AoE mining is definitely planned, but it will not be added to the existing drills. Maybe some new tool type in the future.