The Talos Dragonling - Lightning Caster build - Baldur's Gate 3 (BG3)

Tempest Cleric and Draconic Sorcerer Build - The Talos Dragonling

The build idea is solid both from a roleplay perspective and overall capabilities. The Talos deity represents the destructive nature of this build by using storms and lightning. It is a true nature's incarnate of chaos representing the unpredictable nature of lightning strikes.

This build merges Destructive Wrath​ with spells like Lightning Bolt, Witch Bolt,​ and Draconic ancestry buffs which give a slight boost of damage. Moreover, these spells will be able to knock back foes thanks to Thunderbolt Strike, which gives another layer of combat options. Many of the grunt enemies will die from one spell cast.

The build does offer some customization. You can be more Cleric or more Sorcerer depending on the party composition. My goal here is to create a solid offensive caster that can destroy any kind of foe early in the combat. The sorcerer spells arsenal and access to Metamagic: Quickened Spell​ is perfect for this, as you can also cast Create Water​ on the starting turn followed up by an offensive spell.

So I will be skipping the support part, and it will play only a minor role in this build.

The main downside is that the build only gets access to level 3 spells, which does limit its options. Of course, you will get access to some other options via items like Markoheshkir or Spell Scrolls.

So let's go into the build!

Class Contribution

The build consists of 2 classes in equal parts:

6 Sorcerer Draconic Bloodline

• Constitution saving throw proficiency at least for the early game, to help with spell concentration
• Access to good defensive spells like Shield​ to improve survivability.
• Up to level 3 spells, specifically Lightning Bolt​ for destroying multiple foes.
• Draconic Resilience​ which grants 13 Armour Class if you are not wearing any protection.
• Draconic Ancestry effects that improve specific element damage based on the bloodline with Elemental Affinity: Damage.
• Access to a variety of cantrips like Friends, which are especially useful if you are the main character, as you can win over the dialogues
• Metamagic mechanic and Sorcery points. You will be able to cast full spells using Metamagic: Quickened Spell, giving a unique advantage over normal cleric builds.

6 Tempest Domain Cleric

• Access to healing and support spells - Mass Healing Word​ and Healing Word​ in case the situation becomes very bad.
• Can apply wet status for other casters with Create or Destroy Water, to empower your Lightning spells.
• Tempest Domain offers Destructive Wrath, allowing you to deal the maximum possible damage with your spells.
• Access to various reactions and spells related to the Lightning and Thunder theme - Wrath of the Storm, Sleet Storm.
• Proficiencies with shields and medium armor, allowing to improve defensive capabilities further.
• Your lightning and thunder spell effects can push foes away with the Thunderbolt Strike​ effect. It can easily result in an instant kill if enemies are close to the ledge.

Leveling Overview

Here is a concise table with all the main picks during your leveling progression. For more detailed reasoning, I go further in the article. Also, do not forget to check the recommended gear as it is crucial.

Level	Class	Selection
1	Sorcerer 1	Cantrips: Friends, Minor Illusion, Ray of Frost, Shocking Grasp​
		Spells: Magic Missile, Chromatic Orb​
		Subclass: Draconic Bloodline
		Dragon Ancestor: Draconic Ancestry: Blue (Lightning)​ or Draconic Ancestry: Bronze (Lightning)​
		Abilities: STR - 8, DEX - 16, CON - 14, INT - 8, WIS - 10, CHA - 17
		Skills: Deception, Persuasion
2	Sorcerer 2	Spells: Shield​
		Metamagic: Metamagic: Twinned Spell​, Metamagic: Distant Spell​
3	Sorcerer 3	Spells: Cloud of Daggers​
		Metamagic: Metamagic: Quickened Spell​
4	Sorcerer 4	Cantrips: Mage Hand​
		Spells: Blindness​
		Feat: Dual Wielder​ or Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma
5	Sorcerer 5	Spells: Lightning Bolt​
6	Sorcerer 6	Spells: Haste​
		Replace Spell: Cloud of Daggers​ -> Counterspell​
7	Cleric 1 (respec as first level)	Cantrips: Guidance, Light, Thaumaturgy​
		Subclass: Tempest Domain
		Deity: Talos
		Abilities: STR - 8, DEX - 16, CON - 14, INT - 8, WIS - 10, CHA - 17
		Prepare Spells: Create or Destroy Water​
8	Cleric 2	-
9	Cleric 3	-
10	Cleric 4	Feat: Dual Wielder​ or Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma
11	Cleric 5	-
12	Cleric 6	-

Starting the Game - Level 1

This section covers the creation screen and what would go into the best Races, Abilities, and Skills for the Talos Dragonling build. If you have already started playing feel free to do a respec at Withers and follow along. This will make it easy to follow the build step by step.

Races

Picking a race provides various benefits - abilities, dialogue options, looks, etc.

Race	Features	Description
Halfling	Halfling Luck Brave	The good thing is that Tempest Domain does not need to be as much on the frontlines and can play as a caster. This opens up options for shorter races.
High Half-Elf	Civil Militia Darkvision​ Fey Ancestry	Comes with a selection of additional cantrip and shield proficiency. For the former, pick something utility. Sadly,the  cantrip spellcasting modifier is intelligence.
Blue Dragonborn	Lightning Breath​ Draconic Ancestry​	Although the race is somewhat disappointing, it still fits the theme pretty well, as it represents lightning elements.
Bronze Dragonborn	Lightning Breath​ Draconic Ancestry​
Deep Gnome	Gnome Cunning​ Superior Darkvision​ Stone Camouflage​	With a general advantage to mental checks with Gnome Cunning this is a great survivability boost on some deadly spells.

Class

Overview
Sorcerer
Features
Spell Slots	These can be used to cast spells and are restored each long rest.

Cantrips

Cantrips	Description
Friends​	If you are the main character and do most of the dialogues, this is mandatory as it gives an advantage on dialogue rolls.
Minor Illusion​	It can be used to distract NPCs, even before combat.
Ray of Frost​	A long-range cantrip, that has different elements than fire, in case the target is resistant.
Shocking Grasp​	A very useful melee range spell, that allows to disable enemy reactions.

Spells

Spell	Description
Magic Missile​	A good spell to have in the arsenal as it has a 100% hit chance and is perfect for eliminating specific targets. The missiles also can target enemies that you cannot see.
Chromatic Orb​	Can be used with different elements and target enemies based on what they are weak in.

Subclass

Overview
Draconic Bloodline
Features
Draconic Resilience​	This negates the need for Mage Armour.
Draconic Resilience: Hit Points	Just a bonus 1 HP for this build, so it's nothing fancy.

Dragon Ancestor

Only interested in lightning-related Ancestry.

Ancestor	Description
Draconic Ancestry: Blue (Lightning)​	I would prefer the Draconic Ancestry: Blue (Lightning)​ as I think Witch Bolt​ is more useful, especially later in the game, when you can inflict huge amounts of lightning damage on a single target. It is also a decent spell early in the game, to save spell slots.
Draconic Ancestry: Bronze (Lightning)​

Background

Backgrounds are mostly for role-playing and you can pick whatever you prefer. If you want to optimize, then it would be good to pick backgrounds that are based on your ability points.

Abilities

Now let's take a look at the abilities of the Fire Sorcerer build. Correct allocation will allow you to maximize the early gameplay and get good modifier bonuses.

The core mechanic to understand for ability points is that they give "ability modifiers" that apply to various skill checks. For example, Charisma works on Intimidation and persuasion checks. Wisdom on Survival or Animal Handling and so on.

You get a higher ability modifier on even values - 10, 12, 14, etc. So keeping it on odd may be useless. However, there are various +1/2 modifiers in the game, specifically Auntie Ethel Hair or Feats that help round this up.

Ability	Value	Description
Strength	8	This build does not need strength.
Dexterity	16 (15+1)	High Dexterity will ensure that you go early in combat. Moreover, you will get a bonus Armour Class, for better survivability.
Constitution	14	It is important to ensure sufficient HP and good survivability by having a decent Constitution ability score.
Intelligence	8	Not needed for the build
Wisdom	10	Overall, leaving it at 10 is a good choice as you will not get a negative modifier on Wisdom Saving Throws. Wisdom is targeted by many spells.
Charisma	17 (15+2)	Charisma is the main spellcasting ability for Sorcerer and also helps with dialogue checks.

Skills and Expertise

Overall, the skills should be impacted by your roleplaying and background decisions. However, you would still want those that will give you the best benefits. My recommendations are to pick those at which you have a high ability modifier and these are Charisma-related.

• Deception
• Intimidation
• Persuasion

Leveling Progression - Levels 2-12

Here is the detailed progression for the Lightning Sorcerer build to get you started. You can use it as a guideline because early games can be daunting and overwhelming. Later on, once you get a feel for the class you can start picking your options

Level 2

This is where you will have left the tutorial area, and will start exploring the world. 

Actions	Description
Create Sorcery Points​	Spend Spell Slots to gain Sorcery Points. Once you get some more metamagic options, you could sacrifice spell slots, to cast two spells in one turn or increase your range.
Create Spell Slot​	Spend Sorcery Points to unlock a Spell Slot. You could create a higher tier spell slot, to increase the damage over what you can at the current level

Spells

My recommendation for the spells to be included in the spellbook:

Spells	Description
Shield​	I cannot stress enough how powerful this spell is. You can use the level 1 spell slot, to increase your armour class by 5. The result is that you can avoid most of the attacks during the turn. I would delay this a few levels to lower the difficulties, as you have limited spell slots. However, on Honour Mode, getting hit can be the end of the run.

Metamagic

Sorcerers get access to unique actions. They allow to consumption of sorcery points to enhance spellcasting. New metamagic options will be unlocked as we level up as you have more and more Sorcery Points. Pick two:

Passives	Description
Metamagic: Twinned Spell	Spells that only target 1 creature can target an additional creature. Later on, you can use this to apply Haste on two allies or a Command spell to disable two targets.
Metamagic: Extended Spell​	This is especially useful if you will cast spells with short duration like Command. It would extend their effect period.
Metamagic: Distant Spell	Get a huge distance boost, allowing you to take out enemies before they see you.

Replace Spell

Nothing for now.

Level 3

The level-up unlocks the level 2 spell slots and spells. You also gain another option for metamagic, this time much better.

Spells

Spells	Description
Cloud of Daggers​	This can be used to target multiple enemies and is very good in passages or choke points. The spell deals damage when it's cast and when the enemy's turn begins. This means you do 2x damage by default.

Metamagic

Passives	Description
Metamagic: Quickened Spell	By consuming 3 Sorcery points a spell can be cast using bonus action instead of action points. You can cast two damage spells one after another. Or cast a control spell followed by an offensive one. This opens a lot of possibilities to combo various spells.

Replace Spell

There are plenty of good spells that you could take - Hold Person, Enhance Ability, etc. However, I think you can delay them, as everything that you have is still useful.

Level 4

Cantrips

Pick one of the cantrips:

Cantrip	Description
Mage Hand​	Can be used in various situations - combat, exploration, and interactions.
Bone Chill​	There is one encounter in Grymforge against an elemental where this is especially useful. Otherwise, if you know how to handle strong health regeneration I would skip it. Overall, I would make sure that at least one member of the party has this spell.

Spells

As now you have a decent amount of spell slots getting this option makes sense:

Spells	Description
Blindness​	A decent spell that can Blind enemies and does not use a concentration slot.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace.

Feat

There are 2 main choices depending on which race you have picked:

Feat	Description
Ability Improvement +2 Charisma	This is the most obvious one and is perfect if your race has access to shield proficiency (like Humans or Half-Elves). Later, you will multiclass into a cleric and obtain the shield proficiency at level 7.
Dual Wielder​	If you have shield proficiency this can be delayed to later. However, if not, then dual-wielding Melf's First Staff with The Spellsparkler is the best setup in Acts 1 and 2. This will also give +1 AC.

Level 5

And you finally reach level 3 spells, which makes the build stronger, and gives access to powerful lightning spells.

Spells

Spells	Description
Lightning Bolt​	The core spell of this build that you will use during most of the encounters. I will cover how to maximize the damage with it in the mechanics section. Overall, just make sure to use it on wet enemies to maximize lightning damage.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace it as of yet.

Level 6

Reaching Level 6 Sorcerer gives bonus subclass features, which will be a huge improvement for the build.

Features	Description
Elemental Affinity: Damage	The ability will activate every time we use relevant elemental spells. In your case, this will be bonus Lightning damage with spells like Lightning Bolt​ or Witch Bolt.
Elemental Affinity: Resistance	Somewhat situational feature, I have not used it much as I would rather spend sorcery points on metamagic.

Spells

I would be sure to pick up some kind of control spell. This will prove vital especially later on, to disable multiple foes. Here are my suggestions:

Spells	Description
Haste​	You can use Metamagic: Twinned Spell​ to target yourself and an ally. This is a very powerful combo almost guaranteeing a win.
Fear​	A very powerful spell that frightens enemies and forces them to drop their weapons. This does require you to come close to them, which can prove risky.
Sleet Storm​	One of my favorite spells, that can immobilize many foes as they slip on ice. You will obtain this later, with Cleric multiclass, so it's a low priority.

Replace Spell

Remove Spell	Add Spell	Description
Cloud of Daggers​	Counterspell​	Can be a lifesaver against enemy casters in case they will be able to cast a powerful spell.

Level 7 - Respec to Lv 1 Cleric

This level is important as you will now start going for Cleric multiclass. Still, there is a slight problem that needs to be addressed. When casting spells with items (Markoheshkir, Spell Scrolls), the spellcasting modifier is based on the latest lvl 1 multiclass you picked.

For this build the goal is high Charisma as you will mostly use offensive Sorcerer spells. So to make sure that the build always uses Charisma, Sorcerer needs to become the last level 1 multiclass. This can be achieved by first taking Cleric.

This does sound complicated, but solves an important problem later down the road, when you will get some powerful spell scrolls and items. So go respec at Withers and pick Cleric as a first class.

Class

Overview
Cleric
Clerics are representatives of the gods they worship, wielding potent divine magic for good or ill.
Features
Spell Slots	These can be used to cast spells and are restored each long rest.
Domain Spells​	Unique spell list accessible based on your cleric subclass.

Cantrips

Cantrip	Description
Guidance​	The spell can be used to improve the ability check rolls
Light​	A decent spell that will be useful in Act 2, to avoid heavily obscured areas.
Thaumaturgy​	Advantage source when doing Intimidation dialogue checks.

Subclass

Overview
Tempest Domain
Features
Wrath of the Storm​	Unique reaction that can deal lightning or thunder damage to the targets attacking you.
Thunderwave​	It can be used to push back enemies from ledges.
Fog Cloud​	Create an obscured area, that can be used to pickpocket or blind enemies.

Deity

The build is all about lightning so the perfect pick is Talos.

Abilities

Reuse the same ones from the 1st level - STR - 8, DEX - 16, CON - 14, INT - 8, WIS - 10, CHA - 17.

Prepare Spells

Don't forget to pick prepared spells once you leave the level-up screen. Here are my recommendations:

Spells	Description
Create or Destroy Water​	The core spell of this build will allow your Lightning-based spells to deal double damage. In most cases, you will be able to destroy simple grunt foes.

Level 8 - Cleric Lv 2

The most powerful feature of the tempest domain cleric will be unlocked here.

Action	Description
Turn Undead​	Excellent against undead enemies, making them run away.
Destructive Wrath​	The main feature of Tempest Domain allows it to deal maximum damage with Thunder and Lightning spells.

Prepare Spells

Add one spell:

Spells	Description
Sanctuary​	A very good spell to save an ally or yourself if the situation becomes dire.

Level 9 - Cleric Lv 3

The build gets access to level 2 spells. The offensive spells are not that useful as they will have Wisdom as a spellcasting modifier.

Spells	Description
Gust of Wind​	You won't be using these spells as they will have Wisdom as a spellcasting modifier.
Shatter​

Prepared Spells

Add one spell:

Spells	Description
Enhance Ability​	It's almost a mandatory spell to have by someone in the group. This can help with various ability checks and turn the tables to your side.

Level 10 - Cleric Lv 4

You will get the second feat from the cleric leveling.

Cantrips

You can pick anything, as all the important ones have already been learned.

Prepare Spells

Add one spell:

Spells	Description
Warding Bond​	Allows to split damage with a warded ally, improving survivability.

Feat

Here you can select from a few choices, based on your playstyle and what kind of playthrough you are doing.

Feat	Description
Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma	Pick this if you have not taken it yet. This will improve the spellcasting modifier.
Dual Wielder​	Should be picked if you did not take it earlier. However, you might skip it if you have another caster in the party, as you will be limited to good caster weapons
Alert​	Very powerful feat that more or less guarantees that you go first in most combat situations.

Level 11 - Cleric Lv 5

This level is a huge milestone, and that is why no multiclassing happened before. Access to level 3 spells makes Tempest Cleric an extremely powerful build.

Feature	Description
Destroy Undead​	When you use Turn Undead, you will also deal bonus radiant damage. I think this is a good addition, but nothing fancy as it has niche uses.

The Tempest Domain subclass also gains special spells:

Spell	Description
Call Lightning​	As the build uses the Charisma spellcasting modifier, this spell is sadly irrelevant.
Sleet Storm​	Extremely powerful control spell that is usually overlooked, because it does not have any damage. However, you can make enemies prone with it, cancel the concentration of spells, and cover an area in ice. After this, enemies will have to pass Dexterity checks to avoid falling once they start moving.

Prepared Spells

Overall, you can take any non-offensive spell. As I mentioned a few times, these will use the Spellcasting modifier of wisdom, so anything with Saving Throws or attack rolls will not be as effective.

Level 12 - Cleric Lv 6

The last level of the build gives a significant boost - a new feature and the second Channel Divinity Charge. It's quite unfortunate that these are obtained on the last level, as they would be extremely useful in the mid-game.

Feature	Description
Thunderbolt Strike​	With this feature, you will be able to see some silly situations, where enemies are pummeled around from your spells. It does not provide too many practical bonuses and sometimes can even have negative effects, of spreading enemies apart.

Prepared Spells

Overall, you can take any non-offensive spell. As I mentioned a few times, these will use the Spellcasting modifier of wisdom, so anything with Saving Throws or attack rolls will not be as effective.

Maximizing Ability Scores

Now, as the build progression is covered there are a few aspects and important decisions you will have to make throughout the game. These will decide your final score for abilities.

Charisma

1. 17 Charisma - the base from character creation.
2. Act 1 - Auntie Ethel Hair - you will want to get +1 Charisma if you pick this choice.
3. Feat- Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma.
4. Act 3 - Mirror of Loss - pick +2 Charisma.
5. Act 3 - Mirror of Loss - Patriar's Memory additional +1 Charisma, to counteract Auntie Ethel Hair if it was skipped in Act 1.

These will allow you to reach 22 natural Charisma, which results in a +6 spellcasting modifier and improved Spell Save DC.

Potions, Elixirs and Consumables

Let's take a look at what consumables you can use to further empower the build.

Potions

These are general consumables, and most of them are activated for a few turns. Potions are separate from Elixirs and can be active together.

Consumable	Description
Potion of Speed	In case you or your other casters have a Concentration spell slot taken and cannot cast Haste, use this potion. It acts similarly, but the effect is just for 3 turns.
Potion of Animal Speaking	Although not something powerful, it is worth stocking up and saving a spell slot.
Potion of Invisibility	Can be used to get a perfect position before the encounter starts or leave the encounter if it comes to worst.

Elixirs

Unfortunately, only one Elixir can be active at a time. However, the good thing is that they last until a long rest, making them very useful and economical.

Be sure to activate them before combat as otherwise, you will need to use Bonus Action.

Consumable	Description
Elixir of Bloodlust	Very effective elixir that gives another action point if you kill an enemy. I would say this is the best one to use to maximize your output through the turn.
Elixir of Battlemage's Power	Gain 3 stacks of Arcane Acuity. I would say this should be the most used elixir for higher spell success.
Elixir of Peerless Focus	Another good choice that allows to better maintain spell Concentration.
Superior Elixir of Arcane Cultivation	Grant's a single level 3 spell slot. Could be useful in case you are preparing for a longer encounter.
Supreme Elixir of Arcane Cultivation	Grant's a single level 4 spell slot. Could be useful in case you are preparing for a longer encounter.
Elixir of Vigilance	For some encounters, you will want to go first. This elixir will ensure that it overcomes even surprise mechanics. However, if you have Alert​ this becomes redundant.

Illithid Powers

This special mechanic in Baldur's Gate 3 allows you to consume tadpoles and unlock special Illithid Powers.

At first, you can only use the base powers. As you move to Act 3, you will be able to unlock the outer ring powers also called Elite.

Illithid Power	Type	Description
Favourable Beginnings	Base	Beneficial power to take as it does not have any costs, and provides only benefits on the first hits with attack rolls.
Luck of the Far Realms​	Base	An easy way to ensure you land critical hits.
Cull the Weak​	Base	Can help to kill an enemy faster if it is left with a few HP.
Psionic Backlash​	Base	A great way to weaponize your reaction before obtaining Counterspell.
Illithid Expertise​	Elite	Can be used to maximize the effectiveness of charisma-based skills, especially relevant to the main character.
Black Hole​	Elite	Very powerful spell that can be used to pull enemies together. You can then follow up with area-of-effect spells or attacks. In general, it is a very effective action in the hands of any character.
Psionic Dominance​	Elite	Can be used to save yourself from a deadly spell. This is especially relevant as you will have a disadvantage on mental saving throws.
Freecast​	Elite	Remove the cost of spell slots or charges.
Mind Sanctuary​	Elite	You can now use action and bonus action interchangeably, giving two full spell casts each turn. It's not as important for you, but it will help other casters in the group.

Equipment Recommendations

Now I would like to go through some gear recommendations to maximize the Lightning Sorcerer Build. Items are especially important as they take the build to the next level thanks to their unique effects.

Act 1

For most of Act 1, your melee weapon slots will be free, so use anything there.

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One-Handed)	The Spellsparkler	When used with Magic Missile​ you can generate multiple Lightning Charges and drastically improve the damage output of the spell.
	Melf's First Staff	Gives +1 to spell attack rolls or DC. An alternative to The Spellsparkler in case it is used by someone else.
	Phalar Aluve	It can be used to apply damage and attack roll buffs in various combat encounters. Wearing it together with other staves will require Dual Wielder​ feat.
Ranged	Bow of Awareness	The higher initiative bonus will allow you to start your turn earlier.
	Hand Crossbow +1	Equipping two of these will allow you to attack with off-hand. This is important as you may not have used for bonus action if your Sorcery points have been expended, so this will allow some bonus damage.
Shield	Adamantine Shield	It provides a substantial defensive boost by reducing critical hit damage.
	Safeguard Shield	Gives a bonus to saving throws, easily accessible early in the game.
Head	The Shadespell Circlet	Increases Spell Save Difficulty Counter, while obscured. Very easy to activate, use Shift, to see the sun icon, it should be half or full empty.
	The Lifebringer	The best defensive option in Act 1. Works well with The Spellsparkler. Without it, the item loses its purpose.
Cloak	-	Nothing relevant for the build
Armor	The Protecty Sparkswall	The best spellcaster robe in Act 1. Works well with The Spellsparkler for additional bonuses to Armour Class and Saving Throws with Lightning Charges.
Gloves	Gloves of Belligerent Skies	Applies Reverbation when dealing thunder or lightning damage. With 5 stacks, this will deal a bonus 1d4 damage and can make enemies Prone. This can be easily achieved once you have The Spellsparkler.
	Bracers of Defence	Gives whooping +2 Armour Class. This is the perfect option especially if you do not have shield proficiency.
	Gloves of Missile Snaring	Defensive gloves that allow to negate enemy ranged attack.
Boots	Boots of Stormy Clamour	Excellent shoes for applying Reverbation. However, if you have a Cleric or other Spirit Guardians​ user I would save these on them.
	Disintegrating Night Walkers	One of the best boots, giving a total advantage for movement on difficult surfaces. It also gives Misty Step​ to increase that mobility.
	Boots of Striding	Gives additional protection against being Prone.
Amulet	Psychic Spark	Excellent amulet which improves Magic Missile​ effectiveness, making it one of the best spells in the early game.
	Pearl of Power Amulet	A good amulet that allows restoring level 3 or lower spell slots. This way you could get additional sorcery points.
	Amulet of Misty Step	A good amulet to obtain mobility via Misty Step.
Rings	Ring of Protection	Gives defensive bonuses to Armour Class and Saving Throws.
	Fetish of Callarduran Smoothhands	Allows Casting invisibility for free once per long rest.
	Ring of Absolute Force	Bonus thunder damage to thunder spells works with 5 Reverbation stacks from Boots of Stormy Clamour.

Act 2 - mid-game

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One-Handed)	-	Continue using weapons from Act 1, as nothing comes close in terms of usefulness.
Ranged	Ne'er Misser	Gives an additional cast of level 3 Magic Missile​. Be sure to equip a second, hand crossbow like Hand Crossbow +1.
	Bow of Awareness	Still the best bow, as initiative plays a vital role for first mover advantage during encounters.
	Darkfire Shortbow	Can be useful to precast Haste​ in some encounters.
Shield	Ketheric's Shield	The best shield for casters as it gives +1 Spell Save DC, increasing spell success.
	Sentinel Shield	What makes this shield amazing is that by wearing it you will be going first most of the time during encounters.
Head	Fistbreaker Helm	Adds +1 Spell Save DC improving spell success.
Cloak	Cloak of Protection	Improves survivability and Saving Throw success. You want to equip this cloak to maintain that good Armour Class.
	Thunderskin Cloak	Because most of the enemies you come across will have Reverbation this cloak will further help to weaken those foes.
Armor	The Protecty Sparkswall	Same armor from Act 1 that improves Spell Save DC.
	Robe of Exquisite Focus	Gives bonus Spell Save DC.
Gloves	Gloves of Belligerent Skies	The best gloves in terms of stacking bonus Reverbation, especially via Callous Glow Ring effect.
	Hr'a'cknir Bracers	Decent gloves with the ability to cast Telekinesis.
	-	Anything from Act 1.
Boots	Boots of Stormy Clamour	They are still the best boots for applying various conditions.
	Evasive Shoes	Slightly improves Armour Class resulting in a higher survivability.
Amulet	-	Previous Act Amulets.
	Amulet of the Harpers	The Shield​ spell is pretty good, but you will get this spell from Sorcerer.
Rings	Ring of Mental Inhibition	Once you reach level 9 and unlock Magical Ambush​ this ring can help with debuffing foes when you scroll cast.
	Callous Glow Ring	The ring's bonus radiant damage will help activate Gloves of Belligerent Skies and get more Reverbation stacks.
	Coruscation Ring	It is fairly easy to cast any light spell on yourself or have an ally do that. The Radiating Orb effect will debuff enemies, making it harder for them to hit targets.

Act 3 - Final Build setup

This is the last act of the game, where you will get access to the most powerful items. To get them as early as possible you will need some planning, but overall, it should not be a problem.

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One-Handed)	Markoheshkir	The ultimate caster weapon that enables the Arcane Battery​ effect, special Kereska's Favour action, and other bonuses. You can pick Bolts of Doom, depending on whether you want an improved Scorching Ray​ or Fireball.​
	Rhapsody	A very powerful weapon, that improves damage and attack rolls with each killed foe up to +3.
	Staff of Spell Power	It gives the Arcane Battery​ effect which will save spell slots when casting high-level spells. Moreover, it improves Spell Save DC.
	Woe	Vampiric staff with improvements to Spell Save DC.
Ranged	Hellrider Longbow	The bonus initiative is an excellent boost to go early in combat. If it is not a surprise round, it is almost guaranteed.
Head	Hood of the Weave	A good caster headwear that gives bonuses to spell attack rolls and spell save DC.
	Birthright	Gives +2 Charisma, which will allow you to reach 24 with all the bonuses.
Cloak	Cloak of The Weave	Improves Spell Save DC. However, the main caveat is that this cloak is in demand by all casters.
	Cloak of Displacement	Provides an increased chance of avoiding enemy attacks with attack rolls.
Armor	Armour of Landfall	If you have light armor proficiency from race, this is a very powerful armor and the best one for the caster. The Constitution Saving Throw advantage is a huge boon. It also improves Spell Save DC.
	Robe of the Weave	Improves Spell Save DC and also Armour Class. Excellent caster robe.
	Robe of Supreme Defences	Improves Saving Throw success by giving a bonus based on your spellcasting modifier.
Gloves	Helldusk Gloves	Good gloves with a boost to Spell Save DC
	Gauntlet of the Tyrant	Boosts Spell Save DC by 1.
Boots	Helldusk Boots	Gives an option to pass a Saving Throw using reaction. Moreover, improves the movement via Difficult Terrain.
	Disintegrating Night Walkers	One of the best boots in the game, enabling free movement on difficult terrains and giving Misty Step.
Amulet	Amulet of The Devout	Provides +2 Spell Save DC. However, it is better used on Cleric to get the bonus Channel Divinity charge.
	Spellcrux Amulet	Allows restoring any level of spell slot.
Rings	Ring of Feywild Sparks	A somewhat overlooked ring, but it gives +1 Spell Save DC. It can help land that initial spell.
	Ring of Mental Inhibition	This ring can help with debuffing foes when you scroll cast and they fail saving throws.
	Callous Glow Ring	Will give additional radiant damage rider and will affect multiple targets.
	Ring of Protection	The armor class boost from the ring slot is valuable throughout the game.

Build Mechanics

In this section, I would like to dive deep into how to play the Lightning Build Build. This will help you utilize it to the fullest and correctly use various actions and spells throughout the game.

Important Mechanics and Combos

Let's go through key mechanics and tips on how to use the build effectively.

Easily apply Wet

The build revolves around very high lightning damage. To reach it, you should apply Wet status on enemies whenever that is possible. This is pretty easy and there are a few ways of doing that:

• Have someone cast Create or Destroy Water​. You can also cast it yourself, but this will limit the number of action points available. Having Metamagic: Quickened Spell​ is perfect for this.
• Drag the Water Bottle from the inventory onto the ground or close to the enemies. The next step will require some kind of Hand Crossbow +1 so that you can shoot with offhand. Now hit the bottle with your arrow, and it will break, applying wet to the nearby targets.
• Have someone (like Wizard or Druid) with a level 6 spellslot and access to Conjure Elemental. This allows summoning Conjure Elemental: Water Myrmidon, which can use Healing Vapours​ to apply wet on everyone in the area.

With these options, you can greatly improve the build damage from the early levels.

Maximum Lightning Damage

So, the main build highlight is Lightning damage. To get huge numbers you will need a few things:

1. Apply Wet status, which was mentioned above for double damage.
2. Use Lightning spells like Witch Bolt, Lightning Bolt,​ or Chain Lightning​ (accessible via level 11 wizard/sorcerer, scrolls, or Markoheshkir).
3. Once casting a spell activate Destructive Wrath​ for maximum rolls. This will most likely kill any normal enemies and inflict heavy damage on bosses.

Destructive Wrath​ is the highlight of the build, however, it is limited as it uses Channel Divinity Charge, which is restored each short rest.

Metamagic effectiveness

One of the core mechanics that sorcerers have and get an edge on other casters is Metamagic. The first actions are obtained at level 2, and you get more and more as you level up. Here are a few that I recommend:

• Metamagic: Quickened Spell​ - allows casting spells with bonus action, which is an extremely powerful option for Nova rounds, or just inflicting damage and control on the same turn.
• Metamagic: Heightened Spell​ - enemies have a disadvantage on Saving Throws against your spells.
• Metamagic: Subtle Spell​ - you can overcome Silence, in case there is a situation where your character is affected by it.
• Metamagic: Twinned Spell​ - if the spell is a single target, it can now affect two targets - Haste, Command​ level 1, etc.

The main problem is that these require Sorcer Points which are limited. Still, you can use Create Sorcery Points​ and consume level 2 spell slots, which have limited uses in the late game.

Minor Illusion to divert enemies

On the other hand, you can also use something like Minor Illusion​ to pull enemies together, change their vision cones, and attack with the same spell but hit all of them. This is a very powerful cantrip that can be overlooked.

First, it does not break Invisibility or stealth (unless you get seen). Second, enemies when not in combat will chase it, meaning they will change their vision direction. Third, on most occasions, they will come closer to investigate the illusion.

This creates various opportunities like landing a powerful Area of Effect spell from caster or scrolls or hitting with wide attacks.

Early Game Combat

Let's cover how you should progress combat levels 1-6.

• Magic Missile​ is one of the best picks for early games. You get a 100% hit chance and get bonus damage via The Spellsparkler + Psychic Spark.
• Shield​ is perfect for avoiding early-game wipes. Just make sure to have a free level 1 spell slot to activate it.
• Once you unlock level 2 spell slots Cloud of Daggers​ can be used to hit enemies that are stacked together. There are few encounters where you can hit up to 3 enemies in one turn.
• Minor Illusion​ can be used to lure enemies into one place before combat. This works extremely well with Cloud of Daggers​ and other area-of-effect spells.
• Once you get Lightning Bolt​ use it together with wet status (Water Bottle or Create Water​), to inflict huge amounts of damage.
• You can do a nova round with Metamagic: Quickened Spell​ + Haste​/Potion of Speed, to unleash up to 3 spells per turn, in most scenarios easily beating the encounter.

Mid to Late Game Combat

• When using lightning spells, especially Lightning Bolt​ be sure to activate Destructive Wrath​ for maximum possible damage.
• Once you obtain Markoheshkir, be sure to activate Kereska's Favour with Bolts of Doom to access Chain Lightning​ - one of the strongest spells in the game.
• Feel free to use Cleric spells like Sanctuary, and Healing Word​ if some support is needed for the party.
• Chromatic Orb​ can still be used to inflict decent damage on a single target.
• Use the Arcane Battery​ feature from items like Markoheshkir and Staff of Spell Power to cast high-level spells for free.
• Otherwise, the tactics stay the same throughout the game.

Build Variations

Here are some variations that work similarly and utilize the same classes at their core.

Setup	Description
Storm Sorcerer Build: 12 Storm Sorcerer	Can be a good lightning caster and gains access to 3 feats and learning additional level 6 spells like Globe of Invulnerability​ or Chain Lightning​.
Lightning and Cold Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer Build: 2 Tempest Cleric 10 Sorcerer	A similar variation to this build, which offers access to Destructive Wrath​. You also get to access level 5 spells like Cone of Cold​, Ice Storm​, Confusion​, which can be equally important. This does make for a somewhat more versatile build.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading the Talos Dragonling Build for Baldur's Gate 3. I hope you enjoyed reading about this unique build with the mix of Sorcerer and Cleric. The combo offers unique roleplay perspective but also a very powerful build.

Cheers!