In Baldur’s Gate 3, spellcasting is an art that blends tactical timing with strategic preparation. One of the most powerful and versatile spells available to spellcasters isConjure Elemental. This summoning spell allows players to bring forth an elemental force onto the battlefield. However, what elevates this spell further is its potential for upcasting a mechanic that allows the spell to be cast using higher-level spell slots for increased effectiveness. Understanding how to upcastConjure Elementalin BG3 and how to utilize its full potential can turn a tough encounter into a tactical triumph.
What is Conjure Elemental in BG3?
Basic Overview
Conjure Elementalis a level 5 conjuration spell available to classes like Wizards and Druids. When cast, the spell summons a powerful elemental ally that fights alongside the caster and the party. The elemental remains under the caster’s control and lasts until the spell ends or concentration is broken.
- Spell Level: 5th level conjuration
- Concentration: Yes
- Duration: Until dismissed or concentration ends
- Element Types: Fire, Earth, Water, and Air Elementals
Each elemental type brings unique abilities and stats, allowing the player to tailor their summon to the needs of the battle ahead.
Understanding Upcasting Mechanics
What is Upcasting?
Upcasting is the process of casting a spell using a higher-level spell slot than its base level. In Baldur’s Gate 3, many spells gain increased effects when upcast. ForConjure Elemental, using a higher-level slot enhances the summoned elemental’s strength, health, and abilities, making it more resilient and more impactful in prolonged combat scenarios.
How to Upcast in BG3
To upcastConjure Elemental:
- Select the spell from your hotbar or spellbook.
- Choose a spell slot higher than level 5 for instance, 6th or 7th level.
- Confirm your elemental selection this may include options for different types if you have them prepared or unlocked.
Once cast, the game automatically enhances the summoned elemental’s attributes based on the slot used.
Elemental Types and Tactical Use
Fire Elemental
Summoning a fire elemental provides powerful area damage and burn effects. Ideal for crowd control, it excels against groups of enemies, especially those vulnerable to fire.
- Abilities: Fire aura, flame slam, burn effect on contact
- Weakness: Reduced effectiveness against fire-immune enemies
Earth Elemental
This elemental serves as a tank. With high AC and hit points, the Earth Elemental can absorb significant damage while shielding your squishier party members.
- Abilities: Slam attacks, high physical resistance, knockdown effects
- Strength: Effective frontline unit
Water Elemental
Water Elementals introduce versatility with resistance and supportive functions. They can slow enemies and manipulate the battlefield using wet surfaces, which also synergize with lightning spells.
- Abilities: Water splash, movement slowing, synergy with electricity
- Utility: Great for control and combo setups
Air Elemental
The Air Elemental is fast and evasive, capable of flying over hazards and delivering multiple swift attacks. It excels at mobility and is hard for enemies to pin down.
- Abilities: Wind slash, push-back effect, high initiative
- Best Use: Harassing backline enemies or disrupting casters
Benefits of Upcasting Conjure Elemental
Improved Health and Durability
Elementals summoned with higher spell slots possess increased hit points, making them harder to kill. This durability allows them to serve longer in battle, providing a steady source of damage or defense.
Enhanced Abilities and Damage
When upcast, elementals not only become tougher but also hit harder. Their attacks may gain additional damage dice or added effects like longer burn duration or increased knockback power.
Control and Battlefield Presence
An upcast elemental can dominate a section of the battlefield. Whether it’s blocking corridors, soaking enemy aggro, or applying pressure to bosses, its upgraded stats significantly improve battlefield control.
When to Use Conjure Elemental
Mid to Late Game Encounters
BecauseConjure Elementalrequires a level 5 spell slot or higher, it’s most effective in mid-to-late stages of the game. Encounters with multiple enemies or powerful foes are prime opportunities to utilize an elemental’s presence.
Synergy With Your Party
Combining a summoned elemental with a team of spellcasters or ranged attackers can create devastating combos. For example:
- Wet surfaces from Water Elementals amplify lightning spells.
- Earth Elementals hold aggro while rogues sneak around for backstabs.
- Air Elementals disrupt enemy formation, allowing your frontliners to engage more safely.
Boss Battles and Choke Points
Upcast elementals are excellent tools for surviving and controlling longer fights. Boss encounters or tightly confined battle areas allow you to use your summon to stall or corral enemies.
Tips for Using Conjure Elemental Effectively
- Protect your concentration: Since the spell requires concentration, avoid putting your caster in danger or consider spells likeMirror ImageorBlurto stay protected.
- Cast before combat: If possible, summon the elemental before engaging to conserve actions and gain an early advantage.
- Choose the right elemental: Consider enemy weaknesses and terrain before selecting which type to conjure.
- Pair with buffs: Buffing your elemental with spells likeHasteorBlesscan dramatically increase their utility.
Limitations and Considerations
Concentration Risks
Being hit can force a concentration saving throw. If failed, the spell ends and the elemental disappears. Positioning your caster wisely is crucial for maximizing the spell’s effectiveness.
Spell Slot Investment
Upcasting consumes valuable high-level spell slots, so timing and encounter importance must be considered. Sometimes it’s more effective to use area damage or crowd control spells instead.
AI Control
While summoned creatures follow basic commands, their AI may not always act optimally. Manual control is limited, so plan accordingly.
Conjure Elementalin BG3 is more than just a summoning spell it’s a flexible tool for control, damage, and defense. When upcast properly, it transforms into a powerhouse that can shape the flow of battle. By understanding the mechanics, selecting the right elemental for the encounter, and protecting your concentration, you can fully unlock the spell’s potential. Whether you favor the brute strength of an Earth Elemental or the fiery aggression of a Fire Elemental, mastering this spell will give you a significant edge in Baldur’s Gate 3’s most challenging encounters.