Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer Build - Stormfrost Sage - Baldur's Gate 3 (BG3)

Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer - Stormfrost Sage

This build is a variation of the Sorcerer build. The caster mixes both lightning and cold spells to create a solid synergy that can be used differently throughout the game and based on the encounter.

Cold spells like Ice Storm​ come into their own in the mid-game, dealing significant damage when combined with Create Water​ while also providing battlefield control. Enemies walking through icy terrain risk slipping prone, potentially wasting their turn and losing valuable movement.

Lightning spells then become the finisher, delivering lethal strikes enhanced by Destructive Wrath​ for maximum damage. Sadly you will have a limited number of Channel Divinity charges, but a single one, should be able to decide the encounter outcome.

For this build, the Draconic Bloodline subclass is ideal, as it allows you to choose whether to empower your lightning or cold spells. This choice, based on your ancestry, provides a slight but consistent damage boost for one of these elements.

With the metamagic like Metamagic: Quickened Spell​ the build will be able to decide the outcome of the battle in one turn - should you vaporize your enemies with lightning or cover the field in ice for a dreadful movement penalty.

So let's go into the build!

Class Contribution

The build consists of 2 classes empowering each other:

10 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.
• Access to cold and lightning spells - Lightning Bolt, Cone of Cold, etc.
• Draconic Resilience​ will give 13 Armour Class when not wearing armour. This is an alternative to Mage Armour​ saving some spell slots.
• 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.

2 Tempest Domain Cleric

• Access to healing and support spells - Healing Word​ and Sanctuary​ in case the situation becomes very bad.
• Can apply wet status for other casters with Create or Destroy Water, to empower your Lightning and cold spells.
• Tempest Domain offers Destructive Wrath, allowing you to deal the maximum possible damage with lightning spells.
• Access to various reactions related to the Lightning and Thunder theme - Wrath of the Storm.
• Proficiencies with shields and medium armor allow for further improvement of defensive capabilities.

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: Any
		Abilities: STR - 8, DEX - 16, CON - 14, INT - 8, WIS - 10, CHA - 17
		Prepare Spells: Create or Destroy Water​
8	Cleric 2	-
9	Sorcerer 7	Spells: Ice Storm​
10	Sorcerer 8	Spells: Confusion​
		Feat: Dual Wielder​ or Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma
11	Sorcerer 9	Spells: Cone of Cold​
12	Sorcerer 10	Cantrips: anything
		Spells: Sleet Storm​
		Metamagic: Metamagic: Heightened Spell​

Starting the Game - Level 1

This section covers the creation screen and what would go into the best Races, Abilities, and Skills for the Stormforst Sage 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​
Silver Dragonborn	Frost Breath​ Draconic Ancestry​	A cold themed draconic race pick, to match the build theme.
White Dragonborn	Frost Breath​ Draconic Ancestry​
Deep Gnome	Gnome Cunning​ Superior Darkvision​ Stone Camouflage​	With a general advantage to mental checks with Gnome Cunning 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

You can choose one, here are some recommendations to fit the build theme:

Ancestor	Description
Draconic Ancestry: Blue (Lightning)​	The main goal of these ancestries is to improve lightning damage with Elemental Affinity: Damage. 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)​
Draconic Ancestry: Silver (Cold)​	The main goal of these is that you will get improved cold damage with Elemental Affinity: Damage. The spells which will be improved - Cone of Cold, and Ice Storm​ are okay, but will not give a huge improvement to the build.
Draconic Ancestry: White (Cold)​

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 Cold and Lightning 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 Cold 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

Nothing to replace.

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
Gust of Wind​	Great spell, that targets multiple enemies and puts them off-balance. This does fit the whole build theme.
Enhance Ability​	I like this spell, and at least one party member should have it. It can help with various ability checks like dialgoues and lockpicking.

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
Sleet Storm​	One of my favorite spells, that covers the area in ice and cancels spell concentration. It is great for controlling large areas and limiting enemy movement speed.
Haste​	You can use Metamagic: Twinned Spell​ to target yourself and an ally. This is a very powerful combo almost guaranteeing a win.

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 level 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 a Cleric class.

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 - Sorcerer Lv 7

The level 4 spells are unlocked. There are some good picks, but going with the build theme will aim to get cold/lightning ones

Spells

Spell	Description
Ice Storm​	Great spell, that can cover a large area with ice. It inflicts both cold and bludgeoning damage, making it effective against various enemy types.

Replace Spell

Feel free to replace anything if you feel you have no use for it.

Level 10 - Sorcerer Lv 8

This level is important as it unlocks the second feat, giving a slight improvement to the overall performance of the caster.

Spells

Pick one of the spells. Just keep in mind that your Concentration slots may be already constantly in use:

Spell	Description
Confusion​	Makes enemies lose control of themselves and do unexpected things. They may skip a turn, attack allies, run around, etc. This lasts for 3 turns and can be an effective way to control a large area.
Greater Invisibility​	This is a great spell especially if you have a stealthy character in your party. They can then use their high stealth rolls to attack enemies multiple times before being detected.
Dimension Door​	Can be situationally useful to give a movement speed boost to allies. But it's more of a utility spell than an offensive one.

Replace Spell

I did not replace anything.

Feat

Here you can select from a few choices, based on your previous picks and how you want to approach the build:

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 - Sorcerer Lv 9

This level unlocks level 5 spells, which will further empower the elemental setup.

Spells

Spell	Description
Cone of Cold​	It is a cold spell that can be used from the melee range in a large cone. Make enemies wet before using it for double damage. It also freezes the wet ground.

Replace Spell

I leave the replacement options for you to decide.

Level 12 - Sorcerer Lv 10

The last level of the build gives a few more spell picks, but overall you are done with the main choices.

Cantrips

You are free to take any cantrip that you find useful. More or less the build has been finished.

Spells

Now this is your last spell pick, so here are my recommended options to make the final decision:

Spell	Description
Insect Plague​	A useful spell that can choke control an entry point that slows down and damages foes.
Sleet Storm​	This is an amazing spell, that you can use together with other spells to create Ice terrains and immobilize groups of enemies.
Greater Invisibility​	If you have a rogue or other stealth character in the group, this can be used to make it easy for them to land attacks without revealing themselves.

Metamagic

Passives	Description
Metamagic: Heightened Spell	Targets of spells that require Saving Throws have a Disadvantage on their first Saving Throw. It will give a higher chance of spell success. But overall, at this point in the game, it will not matter much.

Replace Spell

This is the last level that allows switching spell picks, feel free to replace anything you do not use.

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 Stormfrost Sage 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.
	Snowburst Ring	Can help creating icy fields with Cold spells.
	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 Cold and Lightning 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 and cold 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.

Maximum Cold Damage

Cold is fairly simple and very similar to Lightning. Overall, you want to use it on Wet enemies as this will double the damage. Moreover, spells like Cone of Cold​ can freeze water surfaces creating difficult terrain and impairing enemy movement speed.

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 or Frost of Dark Winter. This gives access to high-level spells like Chain Lightning, Cone of Cold,​ or Ice Storm.
• Ice Storm​ is a very powerful spell that can serve two purposes - damage and control. First, it covers the area in ice, which can force enemies to skip their turn, and inflicts two types of damage -cold + bludgeoning.
• Sleet Storm​ is a great spell to cover an area in ice and force enemies to become prone.
• Feel free to use Cleric spells like Sanctuary, and Healing Word​ if some support is needed for the party.
• Use the Arcane Battery​ feature from items like Markoheshkir and Staff of Spell Power to cast high-level spells for free.
• Chromatic Orb​ can still be used to inflict decent damage on a single target.
• 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.
Talos Dragonling Build: 6 Tempest Cleric 6 Draconic Sorcerer	This variation gets 2x Channel Divinity charges for Destructive Wrath​ and a unique effect for lightning spells - Thunderbolt Strike​. However, it is limited to only level 3 spells, which might be a dealbreaker for some.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading the Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer Build for Baldur's Gate 3. I hope this build will give some ideas of a powerful lightning and cold caster with access to the most important sorcerer and cleric features.

Cheers!