Baldur’s Gate 3: What are Lightning Charges in BG3? – Answered

While there are a handful of interesting equipment abilities available in Baldur’s Gate 3, one of the most unique and valuable are the Lightning Charges that can be earned from several items, so what do they do?

What are Lightning Charges in Baldur’s Gate 3?

Once you have the Lightning Charges, what do they do? If you have Lightning Charges, then you will gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls and deal an additional 1 lightning damage. In addition, if you have 5 Lightning Charges the next time you deal damage, you will also deal an additional 1d6 lightning damage, which will consume all of your Lightning Charges. You also lose one Lightning Charge each turn. 

Related: Baldur’s Gate 3: How to Get the Potent Robe in BG3

Lightning Charges can be earned by equipping specific pieces of equipment and then completing certain actions. An example is the Spellsparker Quaterstaff, which gives the wielder two Lightning Charges whenever they deal damage with a spell or cantrip. Another is the Speedy Lightfeet boots, which give 3 Lightning Charges whenever the wearer uses the Dash action. 

While plenty of classes can use the power of Lightning Charges, the available items tend to favor magic users and Monks. One of the better options is to play a Storm Sorcerer and lean heavily into your lightning spells. Combining these with the right combinations of Lightning Charge sources can lead to a highly potent build that constantly generates and consumes Lightning Charges, providing additional damage and utility. 

You can also power up a Monk with lightning-powered punches while remaining highly mobile. This can help these martial fist throwers deal with tough foes, such as constructs or those in heavy armor, just with the power of their fists. 

There are several other equipment features that each come with their own complicated keywords. Why not find out what Momentum does, and how best to utilise it?