bg3 best chaotic good tempest cleric

3 min read 11-01-2025

Baldur's Gate 3 offers incredible character customization. One particularly fun and effective build is a Chaotic Good Tempest Cleric. This guide will detail the optimal choices to create a truly electrifying and morally grey force of nature. This build balances powerful lightning-based attacks with the flexibility to help your party while still embracing a chaotic, unpredictable approach to justice.

Choosing Your Race

The ideal race for a Chaotic Good Tempest Cleric hinges on your preferred playstyle:

Half-Elf: This is a strong all-around choice. The extra skill proficiency is beneficial, and the Charisma bonus helps with spellcasting. The Fey Ancestry feat offers some additional utility, making this a versatile pick for various playstyles.
Custom Lineage: If you want maximum customization, the Custom Lineage lets you choose two ability score increases, ensuring your Strength and Charisma are maxed out earlier. This route lets you tailor your build for specific needs.
Gnome (Rock): The added Constitution boosts survivability, which is crucial for a frontline cleric.

Ability Scores (Using Standard Array)

Prioritize these ability scores when creating your character:

Strength (16): Needed for melee attacks and Athletics checks. Tempest Clerics can get into the fray.
Charisma (14): Your spellcasting ability modifier. Higher is always better.
Constitution (12): Crucial for hit points and concentration checks.
Dexterity (10): Acceptable; you're not relying on high AC.
Wisdom (8): Not as important for this build.
Intelligence (8): Least important; dump stat.

Background and Skills

The best background for this build is debatable, depending on your roleplay choices. Here are some strong options:

Acolyte: Aligns well with the cleric class and provides Insight and Persuasion skills.
Outlander: Gives you Athletics and Survival, ideal for a more rugged cleric.
Urchin: Offers Sleight of Hand and Stealth, allowing for some sneaky tactics.

Choose skills that suit your playstyle and background. Persuasion, Deception, and Athletics are generally useful.

Spells and Cantrips

Maximize your damage output with these spell selections:

Cantrips:

Guidance: A crucial buff for allies.
Thunderclap: AoE damage is invaluable.
Sacred Flame: Reliable single-target damage.

Level 1:

Bless: Another excellent party buff.
Shield of Faith: Significant AC boost.
Wrath of the Storm: Excellent AoE damage spell.

Higher Level Spells:

Prioritize spells that synergize with your tempest domain abilities, such as Call Lightning, Spiritual Weapon, and Divine Strike. Focus on spells that enhance both your melee combat and spellcasting capabilities.

Gameplay Tips for a Chaotic Good Tempest Cleric

Embrace the storm: Use your environmental surroundings to your advantage. Channel the power of nature in your attacks.
Divine Strike: Use this to add extra damage to your melee attacks.
Channel Divinity: Use this wisely to either deal extra damage or protect allies.
Melee combat: Don't shy away from close combat. Your high strength and tempest domain abilities make you a capable melee fighter.
Support your party: While dealing damage is important, remember to heal and buff allies when necessary. Balance offense and support.

FAQs

Q: How do I play a Chaotic Good character?

A: A chaotic good cleric follows their own moral compass, sometimes bending the rules to achieve a greater good. They prioritize helping others, but may take unconventional methods to get there. They're unpredictable but have a strong sense of justice.

Q: Are there other good Tempest Cleric options?

A: Yes! A Lawful Good Tempest Cleric would be a more traditional, by-the-book approach. Experiment and find what suits you best.

Q: Can I multiclass?

A: Multiclassing is possible, but it will depend on your preferred play style and campaign length. A dip into Paladin or Fighter can make your character even more versatile.

By following this guide, you can create a powerful and engaging Chaotic Good Tempest Cleric in Baldur's Gate 3. Remember to adapt the build to your personal play style and enjoy the journey!