It is not supposed to make it easier, it is supposed to make it a game instead of a gamble.
Sages actually move around the map. The system is easy (someone please put this on the Wiki):
If you hear rumours, he WAS there. If you move somewhere and find nothing, it means that he has not been here - maybe not yet. If you want to hunt down sages, a bit of teamwork and/or communication might work.
Initially finding one by random stumbling is more difficult now. But keeping track of one and finding him again should be easier.
