Bardlock Build - Eldritch Persuader (2024)

The best Bardlock Build for Baldur's Gate 3. It is a multiclass of Warlock and Bard to create a very powerful synergy. The former will give access to Eldritch Blast​ cantrip for more offense that Lore Bard doesn't have. While Bard gives more proficiencies and better control capabilities that Warlock does not have.

Bardlock Build - Eldritch Persuader

The merging of Warlock and Bard multiclass gives a unique synergy and covers one of the main Lore Bard weaknesses - a lack of offensive actions. Moreover, Warlock gets access to Eldritch Invocations, which can prove valuable in empowering Bard.

Bard, specifically the College of Lore, brings bonus skill proficiencies and most importantly - Cutting Words. Moreover, you will get access to some powerful level 5 spells from progression and Magical Secrets selection.

This is a variation of pure Lore Bard Build, albeit much more offensive. Warlock also gives unique dialogue options in various gameplay settings, so you have more ways to solve various situations. Overall, as both Charisma-based spellcasters, this is a great multiclass combo.

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.

There are a few ways how you can progress with this build. I would recommend going with Bard and obtaining Warlock multiclass later on. You lose on some stuff, but the things that Bard gets at levels 5-6 are just too good to delay until levels 7-8.

Moreover, one of the key items of Potent Robe is obtained in Act 2, so Eldritch Blast​ before that will be somewhat underwhelming.

Bardlock Leveling Overview

Level	Class	Selection
1	Bard 1	STR - 8, DEX - 16, CON - 14, INT - 8, WIS - 10, CHA - 17
		Skills: Persuasion, Performance, Intimidation
		Cantrips:Friends, Vicious Mockery​
		Spells:Sleep​, Dissonant Whispers​, Faerie Fire​, Longstrider​
2	Bard 2	Spells:Tasha's Hideous Laughter​
3	Bard 3	Subclass: College of Lore
		Skills: Deception, Perception, Insight
		Spells:Enhance Ability​
		Replace Spell: Sleep​ -> Cloud of Daggers​
4	Bard 4	Cantrips:Minor Illusion​
		Spells: Hold Person​
		Feat: Ability Improvement +2 Charisma
		Replace Spell: Tasha's Hideous Laughter​ -> Blindness​
5	Bard 5	Spells: Glyph of Warding​
		Replace Spells: Faerie Fire​ -> Plant Growth​
6	Bard 6	Cantrips: Dancing Lights​
		Spells: Hypnotic Pattern​
		Magical Secrets:Hunger of Hadar​, Counterspell​
7	Warlock 7	Cantrips: Eldritch Blast, Mage Hand​
		Subclass: The Fiend
		Spells: Hex, Command​
8	Warlock 8	Spells: Hellish Rebuke​
		Eldritch Invocations: Agonising Blast​, Devil's Sight​ or Repelling Blast​
9	Bard 7	Spells: Confusion​
10	Bard 8	Spells: any spell, for example Fear​
		Feat: Dual Wielder​ or Alert​
11	Bard 9	Spells: Hold Monster​
12	Bard 10	Skills: Performance, Persuasion
		Cantrips:Dancing Lights​
		Spells: Dominate Person​
		Magical Secrets: Wall of Fire​, Ice Storm​

Starting the Game - Level 1

This section covers the creation screen and what would go into the best Races, Abilities, and Skills for the Bard Warlock build. Some of these choices are impactful as you cannot respec them.

Races

Picking a race provides various benefits - abilities, dialogue options, looks, etc. Also, keep in mind whether your picked race has Shield proficiency as this can improve survivability, especially in the early game.

If you are having difficulties making a choice, pick whatever you prefer in terms of looks or roleplay. "The perfect race pick" is important if you are into extreme min-maxing.

Race	Features	Description
High Half-Elf	Civil Militia Darkvision​ Fey Ancestry Fleet of Foot - your movement speed is increased by 1.5m.	Solid race for almost any caster, especially early in the game. You gain shield proficiency and additional cantrip. I recommend taking a utility one as a spellcasting modifier for intelligence.
Drow Half-Elf	Civil Militia Darkvision​ Fey Ancestry Fleet of Foot - your movement speed is increased by 1.5m.	As Half-elf you gain shield proficiency, which is valuable early to mid-game. Moreover, if you plan on using Warlock's Devil's Sight​ this race gets access to the Darkness​ spell at level 5.
Human	Civil Militia​ Human Versatility​	The human race helps this build to maintain a solid Armour Class by giving Shield Proficiency. Moreover, you get a bonus skill proficiency.
Halfling	Halfling Luck​ Brave​	Any subrace will work. What matters is the Halfling Luck​ that will improve role-playing aspects with high roll success chances. Moreover, these will also work well with attack roll spells.
Asmodeus Tiefling	Darkvision​ Hellish Resistance​	Another race that is perfect if you plan on using Devil's Sight​ invocation. At level 5 it can cast a Darkness​ spell. Moreover, at level 3, you get Hellish Rebuke​ which is useful for some bonus damage using reactions.

Class

Overview
Bard
Features
Bardic Inspiration​	Iconic bard feature, that can improve damage, dialogue dice rolls, and saving throws.
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.
Vicious Mockery​	Although not very powerful, it can help with weakening enemy for their next attack, if you know that none of your attacks will kill them. Later on, if you will be respeccing, switch it for something else.

Spells

Spell	Description
Sleep​	Very good spell early in the game, as it guarantees that enemies are tapped out from combat unless hit.
Dissonant Whispers​	A solid offensive spell, that can also frighten enemies, disabling their movement.
Faerie Fire​	You can use this spell to help your party members to attack with Advantage. This way they get a higher chance to hit, overall increasing their average damage per turn.

For the last spell, I recommend picking one of these two:

Spell	Description
Longstrider​​	Very useful, if no one in your party can cast this. It will give you a better combat advantage, especially for melee characters.
Healing Word​	Useful spell, that can be used to raise downed allies, with just bonus action.

Starting Instrument

Take anything here, that you like by the looks

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 of Charisma.

Abilities

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

Ability	Value	Description
Strength	8	This build does not need strength.
Dexterity	16 (15+1)	This plays an important role in improving armor class and increasing initiative. I think Bard must go first due to low survivability and get some control spells activated.
Constitution	14	Enough Constitution for better survivability.
Intelligence	8	Do not need this ability.
Wisdom	10	Additional Wisdom to avoid any negative modifiers as many spells target this ability.
Charisma	17 (15+2)	The most important stat for the Bard caster build. It will improve dialogue roll checks, but most importantly spell success chance. If you plan on getting Auntie Ethel's Hair for +1 Charisma leave it at 17, otherwise set 16 and use two points for Wisdom.

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
• Performance
• Persuasion

Leveling Progression - Levels 2-12

Here is the detailed progression for the Bardlock 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

I will be progressing with Bard, until level 7, and only then take Warlock. That is my personal preference, due to the huge power spike that Lore Bard gets at levels 5-6. However, if you are interested in obtaining Warlock stuff earlier, you could even take it now.

Level 2

This is where you will have left the tutorial area, and will start exploring the world. From the get-go, Bard gets some useful bonuses.

Features	Description
Jack of All Trades​	A truly useful passive throughout the whole game to increase your chances of ability roll success.

That is not all, there is another surprise waiting:

Actions	Description
Song of Rest​	This is a very important Bard action, and with it, you can use Short Rest a third time before Long Rest. Use it to heal or restore class-specific resources. So do not save those, and use them to your heart's content. Moreover, classes like Warlock, and Fighter, greatly benefit from it.

Spells

Spell	Description
Tasha's Hideous Laughter​	Can be used to immobilize enemies with low Wisdom. However, later in the game, there will be better options.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace yet.

Level 3

The Bard gets to choose its subclass. Moreover, level 2 spells are unlocked, giving some better offensive and control options.

Subclass

Overview
College of Lore
Features
Cutting Words​	This is a very powerful feature, you can use Bardic Inspiration​ to debilitate enemies and decrease their attack rolls or Saving Throws. It is one of the pillars of Lore Bard's build.

Skills

By picking Lore Bard you get to pick three additional skills in which you gain proficiency. Again I would recommend picking anything that is Charisma related (if not yet picked). After that you can take - Perception, Insight, Sleight of Hand, or anything else.

Spells

Now some good spells are unlocked that will improve your options.

Spells	Description
Enhance Ability​	I would say this is mandatory on Honour Mode, and optional on lower difficulties. The spell can be a lifesaver as it will give a huge chance of success in case you need a roll advantage.

Replace Spell

I would replace Sleep​ for:

Spells	Description
Cloud of Daggers​	The biggest damage level 2 spells. It hits two times - first when you cast, second after it is the enemy's turn. You could also use this as a replacement for any spells you do not use.

Level 4

Now, you get some other great choice picks - the first feat is unlocked.

Cantrips

Cantrip	Description
Light​	This will become useful later in the game once you reach Act 2. Moreover, it can be used to improve the damage of some items.
Minor Illusion​	Another good pick. You can pull enemies together before combat. After that follow up with an area of effect spell on the targets.

Spells

Spells	Description
Hold Person	A decent control spell, that you can use to Hold an enemy. be sure to follow up with someone from melee range for guaranteed critical hits.

Feat

Replace Spell

At this stage, I would replace Tasha's Hideous Laughter​ with:

Spells	Description
Blindness​	The spell is solid especially when upcasting. It targets multiple enemies and can trivialize ranged and caster ones.

Level 5

Boom! The Bard is level 5 and this means the build can finally use some awesome level 3 spells.

Spells

Spells	Description
Glyph of Warding​	The only spell that you need, for now... It can cause damage using most elements, so if the enemy is wet, just use the Lightning/Cold element. However, the most important aspect is that it can put multiple targets to sleep. This can easily invalidate many fights.

Replace Spell

For replacement, I would recommend removing Faerie Fire​ and picking:

Spells	Description
Plant Growth​	An amazing spell, that can drastically reduce enemy movement speed. However, the most important aspect is that it does not use a concentration slot.

Level 6

Lore Bard gets access to the Magical Secrets feature, allowing you to learn additional spells.

Action	Description
Countercharm​	You and any allies within 9m have an advantage on Saving Throws against being Charmed or Frightened. Did not use much during the playthrough.

Spells

Spells	Description
Hypnotic Pattern​	I recommend getting this spell. It is amazing and works even while you are silenced.

Magical Secrets

This is the main reason to take Lore Bard. It can now access many of the spells from other caster classes, allowing it to create a few interesting synergies.

Spells	Description
Hunger of Hadar​	Slow down enemies, make them blind, and also incur damage every turn while staying in the fog. This spell can trivialize most of the encounters.
Counterspell​	A solid support spell, that can negate enemy spellcasters and save the party from some wipes. Just avoid using it on weaker spells like cantrips.

Now there are a few options that you may want to pick:

Spells	Description
Darkness​	If you plan on using Devil's Sight​ from Warlock, to become unhittable, this spell is the one I recommend taking.
Sleet Storm​	Fun and effective spell, that creates ice surfaces. These can disable enemies, making it very hard for them to move. Have someone else cast Hunger of Hadar​ and it will immobilize enemies.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace for now.

Level 7 - Warlock Lv 1

Here is the first level you get to multiclass into Warlock, and get access to some of its goodies

I recommend respeccing and starting with Warlock 1 and continuing with Bard 6. This way you will get Wisdom Saving Throw Proficiency which is better than what Bard gets.

Class

Overview
Warlock
Features
Warlock Spell Slots	These spell slots can be used to cast spells and refill each Short Rest.

Cantrips

Cantrip	Description
Eldritch Blast​	Mandatory cantrip. This is the main cantrip that Bardlock will use to deal damage for saving spell slots or getting some crowd control with knockback.
Mage Hand​	Useful cantrip in some world exploration encounters. Can be used in combat for item throwing and shoving.

Subclass

Subclass	Description
The Great Old One	Can apply Frighten on enemies that you Critical Hit - Mortal Reminder. Nearby creatures must also pass Wisdom Saving Throw. It gives some debilitating spells, but the good ones are at a high level which the build does not reach.
The Fiend	Allows you to gain Temporary health points for each enemy that you kill - Dark One's Blessing. This can be helpful as it improves survivability. It will also come with one very powerful control spell that the build can utilize - Command.

As you can guess my pick is:

Overview
The Fiend
Features
Dark One's Blessing	When you reduce a hostile creature to 0 hit points, this gift from your patron grants you temporary hit points

Spells

Spells	Description
Hex​	This spell is a great way to utilize bonus action, for additional damage with Eldritch Blast. Otherwise, it does not serve much purpose.
Command​	You can upcast this spell to target 1-5 enemies. There are multiple choices of what you can do - make them drop weapons, flee to activate attacks of opportunity, grovel, etc.

Level 8 - Warlock Lv 2

Now the build will be finally online and can work to its full potential.

Spells

Honestly, you can pick anything here, my preferred choice:

Spells	Description
Armour of Agathys​	As a caster you may not benefit as much from this spell, however, it is still good to have it in the arsenal.

Eldritch Invocations

You can pick two of these:

Invocation	Description
Agonising Blast​	This is mandatory invocation if you are using Eldritch Blast​ as it will greatly boost damage based on the charisma modifier.
Devil's Sight	I recommend taking this one if you are heavily using the Darkness​ spell. The invocation allows you to see both in natural and magical dark places, it is an upgrade to Darkvision. Moreover, it is a mandatory choice if you do not have it.
Repelling Blast	Eldritch Blast now knocks back. This is very powerful as you can throw enemies from ledges, however, it loses its value in Act 3, where there are fewer places to do that.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace now.

Level 9 - Bard Lv 7

You will get access to level 4 spells. One of those is my personal favorite.

Spells

Spells	Description
Confusion​	An amazing spell, that can make multiple encounters very easy. Enemies may start attacking each other or even skip their turns.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace, unless you want anything specific.

Level 10 - Bard Lv 8

This level unlocks the second feat for Lore Bard.

Spells

Here I have a few recommendations to choose from.

Spells	Description
Greater Invisibility​	If you have a rogue (Assassin at that) in your group who specializes in stealth, this spell can make it so that they will attack multiple times before breaking invisibility. The stealth checks become harder after each action.
Fear​	Another amazing spell that can make multiple enemies drop their weapons. The only caveat is that its range is not long.

Replace Spell

Nothing to replace.

Feat

Here I have two recommendations, and both of them will also be the same for level 12 (if you decide to go with pure Bard). Check the descriptions and decide what to pick based on itemization.

Feat	Description
Dual Wielder​	I recommend this feat especially if you do not have shield proficiency. However, it is also good if you want more Spell Save DC, and don't have any other casters that you utilize Staff of Spell Power or Markoheshkir
Alert​	An amazing feat, that almost guarantees that you go first no matter if it is a surprise or a normal round.

Level 11 - Bard Lv 9

The Bard gets access to level 5 spells.

Spells

Spells	Description
Hold Monster​	An amazing spell, that is best combined with martials or spellcasters using attack rolls. This way you guarantee critical hits, for a huge damage increase.

Replace Spell

For spell replacement, I don't think it is needed, feel free to try out something if you would like.

Level 12 - Bard Lv 10

As Lore Bard, you get access to the second Magical Secrets. This gives two more spells to choose from.

Features	Description
Improved Bardic Inspiration​	The bonus to ability rolls and checks is increased to 1d10. This also applies to Cutting Words.

Skills

You can pick expertise for two additional skills. My recommendation is if you are the main character, get dialogue-related ones:

• Performance
• Persuasion
• Deception
• Intimidation

However, if this is not a main character, you could pick:

• Sleight of Hand
• Perception

Cantrips

Here feel free to pick anything. Here are the ones that I would recommend already having if you did not pick them up before:

Cantrips	Description
Dancing Lights​	Can be used to precast on incoming encounters. This is great if you need to activate the Callous Glow Ring.
Minor Illusion	My recommended pick, as you can use this to move enemies together. Once you reach the next level you can follow up with Glyph of Warding for a huge area of effect spell combo.

Spells

To be honest, I do not think any of the spells are a major improvement. Just pick anything that you would like to try out. Even if it is Speak with Animals​ for some utility.

Spells	Description
Dominate Person​	The enemy target joins you, however, it may break if succeed in Wisdom Saving Throw when taking damage.

Magical Secrets

Now for this choice, there are multiple excellent picks, that are hard to choose from. So let me list a few, and I will leave you to decide the best one to use:

Spells	Description
Cone of Cold​	A powerful Ice spell that deals good damage. I recommend using it on Wet enemies for double damage. It also creates Ice surfaces if the floor below is wet.
Ice Storm​	A good cord control spell, that creates Ice surfaces, giving a chance to make enemies prone and fail their turns.
Wall of Fire​	A solid spell, that if placed correctly, can make enemies self-destruct while walking through the fires.
Lightning Bolt​	A solid spell, that can hit multiple enemies. Doubles damage against wet enemies.

You can also take something that you did not take previously like Sleet Storm or Darkness.

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.

1. Act 1 - Auntie Ethel Hair - you will want to get +1 Charisma if you pick this choice.
2. Ability Improvement - +2 Charisma
3. Act 3 - Mirror of Loss - pick +2 Charisma.

This will allow you to reach 22 natural Charisma, and result in a +6 ability modifier on your spells and rolls. You can also equip Birthright for 24 total.

Potions, Elixirs and Consumables

Let's take a look at what consumables we 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.

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.

Remember to activate one elixir after each Long Rest. These are found plentiful throughout the game, so don't save them too much.

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. These range from somewhat useful, to extremely deadly. I would like to leave a few recommendations:

Base Illithid Powers

Order	Illithid Power	Description
1	Favourable Beginnings​	Beneficial power to take as it does not have any costs, and provides only benefits on the first hits.
2	Concentrated Blast​	Taking only for progression, to unlock the next power.
3	Cull the Weak​	Passive feature that does not cost anything and automatically deals bonus psychic damage around the target, once it is close to death.
4	Transfuse Health​	Taking it for progression
5	Shield of Thralls​	Taking for progression, to unlock the next power, but it also provides a good bonus as temporary health, that can be cast before combat.
6	Force Tunnel​	Mainly taking for progression
7	Displace​	A good ability to have if you decide to take Repelling Blast, otherwise it is needed for progression.

Elite Illithid Powers

These become unlocked later in the game as you progress. They are extremely powerful additions to the build.

Order	Illithid Power	Description
0	Fly​	Automatically unlocked. You can use this to initiate attacks of opportunity without spending any movement.
1	Black Hole​	Amazing power, that pulls enemies together and slows them. After that, it can be followed up with any area-of-effect damage spell.
2	Freecast​	Removes any cost of spell slots or consumable resources.
3	Mind Sanctuary​	Extremely valuable power that can also help other casters to use up their Bonus action effectively.
4	Psionic Dominance​	This can be used to save spell slots instead of using Counterspell.

Equipment Recommendations

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

Act 1

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One - Handed)	Melf's First Staff	Very good item, as it is the first weapon to give bonus Spell Save DC.
	The Spellsparkler	Although this staff does not give increased Spell Save DC, the bonus lightning charges interact well with other gear and also increase spell damage.
Ranged	Bow of Awareness	Gives bonus initiative, allowing one to go earlier in combat
	Hand Crossbow +1	Equip two of these so that you can attack with your bonus action. This is an amazing weapon as you can use bonus action to break water bottles to apply wet.
Shield	Adamantine Shield	It provides a substantial defensive boost by reducing critical hit damage.
	Absolute's Warboard	Very good shield similar to Safeguard Shield, just gives a bonus Heroism​ cantrip. Only use it if you have Absolute's Brand.
	Safeguard Shield	Gives a bonus to saving throws, easily accessible early in the game.
Head	The Shadespell Circlet	The best headwear in Act 1. Just be sure to be obscured if you can.
	Cap of Curing	The restored health is a good bonus when you use up Bardic Inspiration.
Cloak	-	Nothing really of note here.
Armor	The Protecty Sparkswall	Amazing armor, as it gives +1 AC when you have lightning charges and also increases spell success chance.
	Infernal Robe	A solid robe that gives +1 Armour class. However, it requires a very unpopular decision for many players.
	Blazer of Benevolence	Bard item, that gives bonus HP after Bardic Inspiration use. However, it is light armor, so if you use Mage Armour​ the spell will not work.
Gloves	Wondrous Gloves	Gloves specific for Bard, allowing to gain one more Bardic Inspiration charge.
	Bracers of Defence	These are the best early-game gloves, giving you a +2 Armour class if you are not using a shield.
	Gloves of Missile Snaring	Defensive gloves to reduce the damage of incoming ranged attacks.
Boots	Boots of Stormy Clamour	These will be the best boots you use throughout the game. Each time you apply a condition, Reverbation stacks will apply, for further increased success of melee actions and some spells. 5 stacks will deal thunder damage.
	Disintegrating Night Walkers	Very good boots, especially once you start using Cold spells later in the game. This will allow you to walk on the surface easily.
Amulet	Amulet of Branding	This is a good amulet before you get some use for bonus action. Use it, to apply vulnerabilities that your martials can exploit.
	Pearl of Power Amulet	Restore up to level 3 spell slot. Can be unequipped after use.
	Amulet of Misty Step	Gives mobility improvement thanks to the Misty Step​ spell.
Rings	Ring of Protection	The best option for Act 1. The bonus Armour Class is a great boost for survivability.
	The Sparkswall	Reduces lightning damage received.
	Ring of Mind-Shielding	As there are no better options for this type of build in Act 1.
	Mage's Friend

Act 2 - mid-game

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One-handed)	Melf's First Staff	These staves from Act 1 are still a solid choice.
	The Spellsparkler
Ranged	Darkfire Shortbow	Amazing bow that allows to precast Haste​ before combat. This may not seem big as you can use Potion of Speed, but sometimes its short duration is not enough. Otherwise, stay with bows from the previous act.
Shield	Ketheric's Shield	Gives bonus Spell Save DC, which is amazing for better success when casting spells.
Head	Fistbreaker Helm	Improves spell success chance and increases the likelihood of going first.
Cloak	Cloak of Protection	Improves survivability and Saving Throw success. You want to equip this cloak to maintain that good Armour Class.
Armor	Potent Robe	The best robe that you can use with Eldritch Blast​. It will greatly improve its reaching that of a solid offensive spell.
	The Protecty Sparkswall	Still the best option even in Act 2. This requires Lightning Charges, to unlock full potential.
	Robe of Exquisite Focus	Another robe that gives +1 Spell Save DC, get this if you can't use The Protecty Sparkswall.
Gloves	Gloves of Dexterity	I think besides the gloves in Act 1, these are the best options for now until Act 3.
Boots	Boots of Stormy Clamour	The boots are the best option due to the Reverbation stacking.
	Evasive Shoes	Optional boots if you need a little bit more Armour Class.
Amulet	Amulet of the Harpers	Allows casting a Shield​ spell, and can be a lifesaver if attacked heavily for one turn.
	Spellcrux Amulet	It can be used to restore spell slots and unequip after that.
Rings	Ring of Protection	Bonus armor class for survivability.
	Ring of Mental Inhibition	Any of your control spells that enemies will fail now also incur Mental Fatigue.
	Risky Ring	This is a very good ring if you are using a lot of Eldritch Blast, which will improve your hit chance. However, the item is in high demand for many builds, so I would prioritise it on other martials instead.
	Ring of Twilight	An easy way to get bonus Armour Class in Act 2.

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.

There are two main setups that I see, that I would like to cover with weapons:

Now, for the other equipment:

Slot	Item	Description
Melee (One - Handed)	Markoheshkir (BiS)	The best caster staff in the game. I would only suggest using it if there is no other caster in the group. Otherwise, I would skip this. If you will use it, I recommend activating Bolts of Doom from Kereska's Favour, as this will generate Lightning Charges, that will boost Eldritch Blast​ damage. You will also get solid offensive spells - Chain Lightning​ and Lightning Bolt.
	Rhapsody	This is the second best weapon to have in your arsenal once you have Dual Wielder​. It will boost both spell attack rolls and Spell Save DC. Of course, you will need to rake some kills to activate its effect.
	Staff of Spell Power	It has an Arcane Battery, allowing you to cast a spell for free. Moreover, it improves spell attack rolls.
	Staff of the Emperor	Gives bonus Spell Save DC and spell attack rolls. Moreover, its unique effect allows you to Stun enemies if you succeed in a Saving Throw against their effects.
	Duellist's Prerogative	Listing this one as an interesting option for synergies with Cutting Words. The weapon gives additional reactions, allowing you to use actions and spells a second time per turn.
Ranged	Hellrider Longbow (BiS)	Gives a big boost to the initiative, guaranteeing that you can go first. However, you will need to get Longbow proficiency from race.
Head	Birthright	I would say this is the best option for headwear as you will get +2 damage per ray with Eldritch Blast.
	Hood of the Weave	The hood gives solid +2 Spell Save DC, greatly improving spell success chance.
Cloak	Cloak of The Weave	Improve Spell Save DC by one, the best option for a direct increase in spell effectiveness.
	Thunderskin Cloak	As you will be constantly applying Reverbation, this cloak is amazing and allows Dazing enemies who dare to attack you.
Armor	Armour of Landfall (BiS)	As a caster that heavily relies on Concentration spells, this is probably the best armor to wear. The Constitution saving throw advantage is more than awesome.
	Potent Robe	The best robe that you can use with Eldritch Blast. It will greatly improve its reaching that of a solid offensive spell.
	Robe of the Weave	One of the best clothing for caster. Not only improves spellcasting but also provides a +2 Armour Class.
Gloves	Gauntlets of the Tyrant	Another option in Act 3, also gives a level 3 Command spell for each Long Rest. The gloves provide +1 Spell Save DC,
	Helldusk Gloves	Very good gloves, but might be contested by other builds, specifically, martial ones.
	Spellmight Gloves	These are very good gloves, however, I would evaluate how much you use spellcasting versus something like Eldritch Blast, as these will only work with this cantrip.
Boots	Boots of Stormy Clamour (BiS)	The best boots to use with the build
Amulet	Amulet of The Devout	The +2 Spell Save DC is a huge boost, giving a large success improvement for spells.
	Spellcrux Amulet	Restores up to level 6 spell slots. After using it, you can unequip it for another amulet.
Rings	Ring of Feywild Sparks (BiS)	This is the only ring that gives bonus Spell Save DC. This may be a bug that might be patched in the future.
	Ring of Mental Inhibition (BiS)	Provides an easy way to apply Mental Fatigue with spells.
	Risky Ring	This is a very good ring if you are using a lot of Eldritch Blast, which will improve your hit chance. However, the item is in high demand for many builds, so I would prioritise it on other martials instead.
	Ring of Protection	The ring is still a solid choice, to maintain optimal Armour Class.

Build Mechanics

In this section, I would like to dive deep into how to play the Bardlock. 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 effectively use the build.

Counterspell + Cutting Words

This is the ultimate combo that will be able to negate or disable various negative effects the party can receive. Counterspell​ is perfect for canceling enemy spells. I just recommend not using it on offensive ones like Fire Bolt, Eldritch Blast, etc. (unless this means death). It would be better to cancel something like Silence, Confusion, etc. that can break the party.

Cutting Words​ is similar, but instead of using spell slots, it uses Bardic Inspiration​ slots. It can work not only on spells but also on ability checks, saving throws, and attack rolls.

There is one item Duellist's Prerogative that gives another reaction point to use per turn. So you could use both of those actions two times per turn.

Paralysis effects (Hold Person, Sleep, etc.)

This is a very powerful single-target combo. You need to paralyze an enemy so that you would have a guaranteed critical hit. This can be done using Hold Person, Glyph of Warding (Sleep), etc.

After that, your allies can follow up with a guaranteed critical hit. This is a deadly setup, that in most cases ensures the enemy is taken out.

Hunger of Hadar

Hunger of Hadar​ is one of my favourite spells which works extremely well the moment you can get it at level 6. What it does, is create an environment that causes all targets to become Blinded. They also take damage at the start and the end of their turns.

The good thing is that your group can attack from the outside giving an advantage against all of the foes inside. You can also mix this with Command: Hold, to make enemies stay inside to take further damage.

Darkness and Eldritch Invocations

With Warlock at level 2, you can gain access to Devil's Sight​ invocation. I briefly mentioned it a few times in the build, but how to use this correctly? You will want to have someone cast Darkness​ spells. You can also do it yourself and obtain it via Magical Secrets.

Once you have the dark area set up, you can freely stay in it and cast from it without enemies being able to hit with ranged attacks. If they decide to enter they will become blinded, greatly reducing their combat potential.

Wet + Lightning and Cold Spells

I think this is the most important mechanic to learn in Baldur's Gate 3 for the caster. It is very easy to set up and can guarantee you easy wins for most encounters.

The first step is to apply water here are some options for how to do that:

• Have a Cleric, Druid, or yourself cast Create or Destroy Water​
• Throw Water bottle
• Have Conjure Elemental​ to summon Water Myrmidon and apply Healing Vapours.
• The easiest, drop the water bottle on the ground and destroy it with an attack (an offhand attack with bonus action is perfect for that)

Once the enemy is wet, they will become vulnerable to Ice and Lightning damage. This means you deal double the amount. After this follow up with your favorite spell - Chain Lightning, Lightning Bolt, Cone of Cold, etc.

Early Game Combat

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

• Very early in the game, I would use Faerie Fire, to set up Advantage for martials. This way they can guarantee a hit and most likely a kill as enemies have very low HP. Also, you can use Sleep​ to disable a particular enemy, while you take care of others.
• Dissonant Whispers​ does not have attack rolls so it will always deal at least half damage. I would also use it on melee enemies as the Frighten effect does not allow them to move.
• Cloud of Daggers​ - is a great option if there are at least two enemies close by. This way you can hit them for 2 attacks (one at the start of the turn, a second once they start it)
• I would use Bonus Action for healing or attacking with Hand Crossbow +1.
• Hold Person​ is another wondrous spell. If you have a high chance of 80%+, use it. Your martials can then easily finish off the target. Just use it on the enemy with a decent amount of HP.
• Level 5, you can start using Glyph of Warding​ to put multiple enemies to sleep. After that follow up with party members to take them out one by one. The spell can also be selected with different elements. So if the enemy is Wet you can use lightning or Cold elements.
• At level 6, if you get Hunger of Hadar​ this is your go-to spell for most of encounters. Drop it at the start so that enemies would have problems moving and reaching your group.

Late Game Combat

For the late game, the main goal is to buff your allies and follow up with a control spell. This way you utilize effectively both action and bonus action.

1. If you see an enemy spellcaster, most likely they will use Counterspell. You can try to do two things - either upcast to level 5-6 so that their counterspell fails or use party members to cast fake spells to bait them.
2. I would start combat with one of the Concentration spells - Hunger of Hadar​ or Confusion​. The latter is very powerful but checks the likelihood of spell success. Remember you can use Cutting Words​ to reduce their Saving Throw rolls.
3. You could also cast Hold Monster​ or Hold Person​ if there is a strong enemy that needs to be dealt with. After that follow up with melee attacks from allies for guaranteed critical hits.
4. You have an option of using Potion of Speed on the first or second turn from bonus action. This is a great way if you need two strong spells in a single turn.
5. Once you have a spell active with Concentration and need more control use Glyph of Warding: Sleep​ variation as it does not break other spells.
6. After that or on the next turn you can follow up with offensive spells or your powered-up Eldritch Blast.
7. You have two sources to make enemies fail their spells or actions - Counterspell​ and Cutting Words. However, both of them use reaction, so use them sparingly. I would also disable opportunity attacks so that reaction would not get wasted.

Build Variations

There are a few variations that the build could be changed about. I think it is more for advanced players who are likely doing some deeper optimizations.

Setup	Description
Pure Lore Bard: 12 Bard	Going pure Lore Bard is not bad, it is an extremely powerful controller that also can get offensive spells from Magical Secrets. I also recommend taking Mass Healing Word​ and using items like The Whispering Promise and Hellrider's Pride to buff up allies.
2 Lv Cleric 10 Lv Bard	This is a good choice if you want to go without any clerics in the group. You will be able to cast Guidance​ for various rolls, Sanctuary​ as a bonus action, and a wider array of spells. For example, a Life Cleric can cast Preserve Life or Light Cleric's Radiance of the Dawn​.
2 Lv Wizard 10 Lv Bard	This setup requires tinkering with Ability points. You will want intelligence to obtain more prepared spell slots. However, you can scribe various spells, and become the ultimate utility encyclopedia, choosing any support spell at will.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading the best Bardlock build for Baldur's Gate 3. The multiclass of Warlock and Bard creates a strong synergy, that allows Bard to fall back on offense with Eldritch Blast​ if the situation requires. Moreover, you do not lose any benefits of the Bard like bonus skill proficiencies and access to Cutting Words​

Cheers!