Unleash Chaos: The Ultimate Intelligence Builds in Dark Souls 3 Revealed!

In the game Dark Souls 3, players looking to create an enjoyable and effective Intelligence build have a wealth of potent spells, reliable rings, and numerous catalysts at their disposal. However, with such a vast array of options and factors to consider, it can be challenging to discern what works best for a player’s specific goals.

Over the past five years, countless proficient players and seasoned Dark Souls 3 veterans have delved into this game, unearthing numerous impressive mage builds ideal for players who prefer a playstyle centered around spellcasting.

12. Quality Sorcerer

A Powerful Balance Between Faith And Intelligence

Build Overview

In contrast to the conventional Quality builds in the Dark Souls universe, which blend Strength and Dexterity, this unique build emphasizes enhancing the Intelligence and Faith attributes instead. By boosting these stats, players gain access to an extensive range of magical spells, as well as the ability to wield weapons that necessitate higher levels of Intelligence and Faith. Utilizing this build in conjunction with Yorshka’s Chime and the Heretic Staff can be particularly effective.

PVP Tips

As a movie buff, I’d say: In this build, we’re all about hurling potent spells at our foes from a distance. It’s crucial to keep them in view constantly and maintain a healthy buffer zone to dodge incoming attacks. To avoid taking any damage myself, I prefer to stock up on Ashen Estus Flasks instead of regular ones, using them to dodge when needed.

PVE Tips

In a similar scenario as in Player versus Player (PvP), it’s often best to tackle opponents from afar with this setup. This means focusing on evasion and maintaining distance from the foes is crucial. With an adequately high Intelligence and Faith, several spells can become potent enough to swiftly eliminate most enemies by scaling effectively.

Stats

Soul Level: 110
Vigor: 20
Attunement: 37
Endurance: 20
Vitality: 12
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 14
Intelligence: 45
Faith: 42
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Heretic’s Staff +10
Left hand: Yorshka’s Chime +10
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Optional: any usable melee weapon as a back-up in either hand

11. Swift Mage

Spells And Relentless Melee Attacks With A Dexterity Weapon

Build Overview

In the world of Dark Souls 3, it’s not common to find a player wielding both spellcasting and quick, agile weapons. Usually, players specialize in one or the other, but combining them can lead to an exceptionally powerful character setup that many players overlook.

Merging the Heretic Staff and the Great Corvian Scythe gives players a versatile weapon setup. One hand allows for long-range attacks against foes, while the other is perfect for close combat with substantial impact. When enhanced to the Sharp version, the Great Corvian Scythe gains an “S” scaling in Dexterity.

PVP Tips

In this setup, it’s often advantageous to use a one-two-three strategy. Initially, aim to harm your adversaries by casting two spells their way. Subsequently, create uncertainty by moving closer and delivering a few swift strikes with the Great Corvian Scythe. This unpredictable sequence can be highly effective in keeping opponents on their toes.

PVE Tips

In Player vs Environment (PvE), maintaining an element of surprise or varying pace isn’t as crucial compared to Player versus Player (PvP). Instead, it’s more beneficial for players to concentrate on crowd control strategies. For instance, launching magical projectiles from a distance to tackle a few adversaries followed by getting nearer to use the Great Corvian Scythe against the remaining ones often yields positive results.

Stats

Soul Level: 110
Vigor: 24
Attunement: 25
Endurance: 24
Vitality: 12
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 48
Intelligence: 45
Faith: 22
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Corvian Great Scythe +10
Left hand: Heretic’s Staff +10
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Pontiff’s Right Eye
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Hunter’s Ring

10. The Pure Intelligence Sorcerer

A Versatile Intelligence Build For Both PvE And PvP

Build Overview

ChaseTheBro, a Youtuber, devised a build in 2017 that, while not revolutionary compared to other Intelligence-focused builds, he optimized it to make it effortless to construct and employ for both PvE and PvP. The goal is to vanquish adversaries using sorceries with the least dependence on parrying and melee combat, preferably none at all.

PVP Tips

As a passionate moviegoer (or sorcerer in Dark Souls 3), mastering the reach and speed of my spells is key for maximizing this build’s potential. I often employ Crystal Soul Spear to push enemies off balance, but it’s also effective in guiding them towards specific areas. While cornering them may not always be possible, steering their movement along a predictable path can provide me with an opportunity to switch to rapid-fire spells like Great Heavy Soul Arrow. This allows me to launch an intense barrage of blue-white bolts that are challenging for enemies to dodge.

PVE Tips

In many PvE encounters, most opponents won’t focus on dodging your spells, making it simple to clear enemies with Crystal Soul Spear from a safe distance. But during certain boss fights, it’s advisable to opt for quicker yet less powerful spells such as Great Heavy Soul Arrow instead.

Stats

Soul Level: 110
Vigor: 34
Attunement: 30
Endurance: 29
Vitality: 12
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 18
Intelligence: 60
Faith: 7
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Court Sorcerer’s Staff +10
Left hand: Scholar’s Candlestick +10
Head: Crown of Dusk
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Young Dragon Ring
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Prisoner’s Chain
Ring 4: Sage’s Ring
Optional: any usable melee weapon as a back-up in either hand

9. The Battlemage

A Smart And Strong Warrior That Has No Match

Build Overview

In many cases, intelligence and strength are thought of as tactics that conflict with each other. However, these stats can be effectively combined in a build aimed at delivering high offensive power. For instance, YouTuber Crozyn devised a Battlemage build back in 2018, which skillfully employed mid-range spells to inflict magical damage and pressure enemies, all while wielding a Greataxe for close-quarters destruction.

PVP Tips

In this Dark Souls 3 mage build, having a robust melee weapon makes it intuitive for many players to incorporate close-quarter sorceries. Homing Crystal Soulmass is particularly effective since it consistently poses a threat when enemies move into melee distance, making it challenging for them to dodge both the Greataxe and the swift magical orbs simultaneously. Interestingly, encounters with other Intelligence builds can be challenging because there’s a risk of being out-ranged based on spell selection.

PVE Tips

Players advancing through the game should primarily use spells for long-distance fights and their Greataxe in close combat situations. For optimal results, opt for light armor to improve your rolls, but if you prefer to withstand attacks and counterattack effectively with your Greataxe, choose heavier armor instead.

Stats

Soul Level: 120
Vigor: 35
Attunement: 18
Endurance: 32
Vitality: 16
Strength: 32
Dexterity: 12
Intelligence: 48
Faith: 9
Luck: 7

Equipment

Right hand: Crystal Greataxe +10
Left hand: Court Sorcerer’s Staff +10
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Cloranthy Ring
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Havel’s Ring
Ring 4: Sage’s Ring

8. Moonlight Greatsword Mage

One Of The Best Builds For This Magical Weapon

Build Overview

Known as one of the few DS3 swords specifically designed for Intelligence-based characters, the Moonlight Greatsword is indeed an excellent option for mages. With impressive stats, this weapon offers spellcasters a robust melee option. Utilizing this legendary blade in conjunction with reliable sorceries creates a powerful combination that any aspiring Intelligence build can effectively employ.

PVP Tips

Because the sword is instantly recognizable, it’s clear what moves will be used when a player carries it. This clarity, however, makes it harder to attack since the opponent can anticipate your actions. To confuse them, you might need to start an attack with a spell to disrupt their strategy. Swift spells like Great Farron Dart could offer the right amount of surprise, pushing the enemy into making a mistake that you can exploit with a Moonlight Greatsword combination.

PVE Tips

In numerous FromSoftware games, the Moonlight Greatsword is a preferred weapon for Intelligence-based character builds due to its exceptional scaling with intelligence. It adds an exciting twist to a primarily ranged attack playstyle. While it mainly shines in close combat, when wielded skillfully, the weapon skill of the Moonlight Greatsword enables it to deliver effective mid-range attacks as well, provided the user aligns their strike accurately.

Stats

Soul Level: 120
Vigor: 40
Attunement: 24
Endurance: 30
Vitality: 12
Strength: 21
Dexterity: 18
Intelligence: 60
Faith: 7
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Moonlight Greatsword +5
Left hand: Court Sorcerer’s Staff +10
Head: Crown of Dusk
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Prisoner’s Chain
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Young Dragon Ring
Ring 4: Sage’s Ring

7. Murky Madness Dark Mage

The Dark Side Of Spellcasting Can Be Devastating

Build Overview

In the realm of gameplay, Intelligence builds aren’t limited to just traditional magic spells. Instead, you’ll find a wealth of dark spells that add a unique twist to your strategy. For instance, Youtuber Games 4 Days crafted a build centered around these sinister sorceries back in 2017, which pairs exceptionally with the imposing Crucifix of the Mad King.

PVP Tips

For a successful dark DS3 mage build, players might want to employ strategies akin to those used in the Battlemage build. In essence, they should utilize spells for close and mid-range combat that enhance their heavy weapon in the primary hand. The erratic nature of the Crucifix of the Mad King can be advantageous at times, as it maintains enemy uncertainty and stress, but its unpredictable activation of one of its three skills can lead to potential risks if not managed carefully. These risks could potentially be exploited by opponents.

PVE Tips

As a movie-goer enthusiastically reviewing Dark Souls III, I must say that the relaxed nature of PvE gameplay offers players the freedom to experiment more with the intriguing weapon skill of the Mad King’s Folly. This newfound liberty can turn subsequent playthroughs into exhilarating challenge runs, especially if you decide to revisit New Game+ or venture further while primarily wielding the Crucifix of the Mad King as your weapon of choice.

Stats

Soul Level: 151
Vigor: 40
Attunement: 24
Endurance: 40
Vitality: 21
Strength: 20
Dexterity: 12
Intelligence: 60
Faith: 16
Luck: 7

Equipment

Right hand: Crucifix of the Mad King +5
Left hand: Murky Longstaff +10
Head: Blindfold Mask
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Dark Clutch Ring
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Young Dragon Ring
Ring 4: Sage’s Ring

6. Low-Level Cheesy Mist Mage

Not The Most Fun Build To Use, But It Works Wonders

Build Overview

The Pestilent Mist (previously known as Pestilent Mercury) is a sorcerous ability that continuously harms any entity enveloped in the fog it releases upon casting. This includes the caster themselves. The damage inflicted scales with a target’s maximum health, making it particularly effective against powerful opponents like bosses, thus making it an excellent tactic for exploiting foes, often referred to as “cheesing.”

This spell is particularly appealing because it can be utilized by many Intelligence-based character builds, especially those developed early in the game, once they have learned the spell from Orbeck of Vinheim, given that it only needs 30 Intelligence to cast.

PVP Tips

After about five years since its launch, those who encounter this thick fog while playing the game instinctively avoid it. Since most Player versus Player (PvP) zones are expansive, it would be challenging to inflict enough damage on other players with the Pestilent Mist in these areas. Although skillful foresight can temporarily envelop enemies in lethal mist, this duration is often insufficient for them to heal, making the spell more effective for exerting pressure rather than directly defeating opponents.

PVE Tips

In this custom-made setup, boss fights are expected to be less difficult due to its boss-takedown capabilities. On the other hand, regular PvE encounters, particularly against smaller, swift opponents, may prove to be more demanding as they can evade your corrosive fog cloud. This is noticeable in open environments where players must strategize and think creatively to navigate certain barriers.

Stats

Soul Level: 30 (or higher)
Vigor: 9
Attunement: 16
Endurance: 9
Vitality: 7
Strength: 7
Dexterity: 12
Intelligence: 30
Faith: 7
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Any sorcery catalyst
Left hand: Any shield or weapon
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Sage’s Ring
Ring 2: Lingering Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Dusk Crown Ring
Ring 4: Anything

5. Fire Witch Sorcerer

Enemies Will Be Engulfed In Deadly Flames

Build Overview

Players looking to inflict both fire and magical damage with their character should aim to acquire the Immolation Tinder halberd. Dropped by fire witches in Irithyll of the Boreal Valley, this halberd boasts physical and fire-based attacks, as well as superior scaling with Intelligence when fully upgraded. This polearm offers a substantial reach, ensuring potent damage output while maintaining distance from most enemies. Additionally, it functions as a catalyst for sorcery, allowing the user to seamlessly combine melee combat and spell casting. (Please note that it does not support pyromancy spells.)

PVP Tips

This build excels in fending off melee attackers at a distance, but if opponents manage to get too near, they can quickly overwhelm it since the handle sections of polearms inflict minimal damage compared to their heads, and the sluggish attack speed often leaves players vulnerable to interruptions. A simple solution is to keep Homing Soulmass or Crystal Homing Soulmass activated as much as possible to discourage enemies from closing in.

PVE Tips

The twofold nature of the Immolation Tinder’s damage – physical and fire – can be either disadvantageous or beneficial. When facing opponents who typically have average resistance to all elements, this weapon may not inflict significant damage. However, it shines against enemies that are vulnerable to physical damage, fire damage, or both. Fortunately, fire is quite useful against a multitude of adversaries in Dark Souls 3, and the primary threats immune to this element are either engulfed in flames themselves or have a strong association with fire.

Stats

Soul Level: 118
Vigor: 35
Attunement: 30
Endurance: 25
Vitality: 12
Strength: 18
Dexterity: 18
Intelligence: 60
Faith: 12
Luck: 12

Equipment

Right hand: Immolation Tinder +5
Left hand: Any shield
Head: Crown of Dusk
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Sage’s Ring
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Young Dragon Ring
Ring 4: Prisoner’s Chain

4. Faithful Chaotic Heretic

Pyromancies And Massive Weapons Go Well Together

Build Overview

If you’re a player looking to boost your offensive prowess, a chaotic mage build shared by Youtuber xGodsChosenOnex in 2020 could be worth investigating. This build leverages the power of pyromancies and lightning-based miracles for a formidable two-pronged attack strategy. Most enemies struggle to defend against both fire and electric damage simultaneously. To strengthen this setup, equip the Demon’s Scar (useful for casting pyromancies as well as melee combat) along with an infused Great Machete for maximum impact.

PVP Tips

In most cases of hyper-offensive Dark Souls 3 builds that emphasize Intelligence, managing incoming damage becomes a challenge because less attention is given to wearing good armor to enhance spell casting abilities for pyromancies and miracles. Buffs like Sacred Oath, which boosts damage absorption and offers additional benefits, can be useful in these situations as they help mitigate damage while maintaining high offensive potential.

PVE Tips

Equipped with potent fire and electric attacks, this character setup allows players to dish out substantial damage against most types of opponents. Since only a few enemies in the main game are immune to both fire and electricity, it’s likely that you’ll have an advantageous matchup against common adversaries and bosses alike.

Stats

Soul Level: 150
Vigor: 35
Attunement: 30
Endurance: 32
Vitality: 15
Strength: 24
Dexterity: 16
Intelligence: 40
Faith: 40
Luck: 7

Equipment

Right hand: Demon’s Scar +5
Left hand: Canvas Talisman +10 (and a Lightning Great Machete +10)
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Great Swamp Ring
Ring 2: Witch’s Ring
Ring 3: Ring of the Sun’s First Born
Ring 4: Sage’s Ring

3. Crystal Death Machine

One Of The Most Devastating Strength Weapons In The Game Gets An Interesting Infusion

Build Overview

Watching someone wielding a Fume Ultra Greatsword, glistening with jagged blue crystals (from the Crystal Magic Weapon spell), will undoubtedly make any player think twice, considering the immense damage this formidable weapon can inflict. Blood Turned Coffee, the Youtuber, devised this intimidating Intelligence build in 2016 for players seeking a robust one that capitalizes on Strength and Intelligence.

PVP Tips

In essence, employ this construction much like a standard melee setup, since the most effective method of inflicting damage is by wielding the enhanced Fume Ultra Greatsword. It’s advisable to keep a swift parrying tool in your offhand, especially when you’re not using the Crystal Magic Weapon buff. A riposte with this large magical iron has a reasonable chance of defeating enemies who have low Vigor or are already wounded.

PVE Tips

The Fume Ultra Greatsword stands out as an exceptional choice when aiming to pummel opponents. To effectively wield it in one hand while holding a staff in the other, you’ll need to make a substantial investment in stats. However, the reward is significant, offering immense damage capability. This weapon’s high damage output per strike, coupled with excellent poise health, empowers players to incapacitate, disorient, or crush most enemies with ease.

Stats

Soul Level: 120
Vigor: 27
Attunement: 10
Endurance: 35
Vitality: 24
Strength: 50
Dexterity: 12
Intelligence: 35
Faith: 9
Luck: 7

Equipment

Right hand: Fume Ultra Greatsword +5
Left hand: Sage’s Crystal Staff +5
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Ring of Favor
Ring 2: Lingering Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Cloranthy Ring
Ring 4: Havel’s Ring

2. Ice, Wind, & Fire Mage

A Deadly Combination Of The Elements

Build Overview

This character’s construction features numerous elements, giving it a chaotic Dexterity feel. However, the main purpose of this build is to combine Snap Freeze spell with Friede’s Great Scythe for frost build-up, and then use the fire attacks from Immolation Tinder (also functioning as a catalyst for sorcery). This combo aims to eliminate temporary resistance boost to the status ailment that targets gain after being frostbitten. The Storm Curved Greatsword is included primarily to apply pressure and occasionally land a surprise, swift attack on escaping enemies.

PVP Tips

In this build for the elemental DS3 mage, the toughest part is figuring out when and how to employ each weapon due to their distinctive and adaptable move sets. It’s advisable to observe your opponent’s actions before launching any attack. For bulky warrior opponents, focus on using frost more frequently. However, for enemies that rely heavily on casting spells, it might be necessary to chase them down with the Storm Curved Greatsword if they persist in fleeing.

PVE Tips

In the realm of PvE (Player versus Environment), it’s far more beneficial to adjust a target’s frost resistance by inflicting fire damage, compared to PvP (Player versus Player) situations where enemies aren’t resistant or immune to frost. This is because AI in these scenarios typically lack the ability to strategize against such tactics beyond their basic dodge or block moves. Consequently, this approach can prove highly effective in dealing with a multitude of enemies and bosses within the main game.

Stats

Soul Level: 111
Vigor: 40
Attunement: 14
Endurance: 40
Vitality: 21
Strength: 18
Dexterity: 40
Intelligence: 23
Faith: 12
Luck: 7

Equipment

Right hand: Fride’s Great Scythe +5 (and the Storm Curved Greatsword +5)
Left hand: Immolation Tinder +5
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Havel’s Ring
Ring 2: Ring of Favor
Ring 3: Cloranthy Ring
Ring 4: Prisoner’s Chain

1. One-Shot Mage

A Magic Glass Cannon That Should Be Used With Caution

Build Overview

Players can create a powerful, one-time build focused on immense magical power at the expense of defense, transforming them into formidable “glass cannons.” This tactical approach for mages was devised by Youtuber Mood Master in 2017 and relies on an extraordinary Intelligence stat of 99 to unleash devastating overkill spells.

PVP Tips

This highly potent mage setup primarily excels in a single tactic: overwhelming opponents with an intensely powerful Crystal Soul Spear. It is not suggested to employ this build with heavier sorceries such as White Dragon Breath or Soul Stream, as they require extended casting time and are more easily evaded. For best results, players should adopt an agile playstyle to bait enemies into vulnerable positions where they cannot dodge a spell. Failing to do so may lead to the caster’s swift defeat, given their low hit points and defense.

PVE Tips

Given the heavy focus on large single magic attacks in this build, there are numerous opportunities for enemies to retaliate. While players can unleash potent sorceries, their low health makes them susceptible. Aiming for massive strikes against every enemy isn’t recommended; instead, consider using quicker spells such as the Great Heavy Soul Arrow for better defense.

Stats

Soul Level: 120 (approximately)
Vigor: 14
Attunement: 26
Endurance: 18
Vitality: 11
Strength: 16
Dexterity: 9
Intelligence: 99
Faith: 15
Luck: 11

Equipment

Right hand: Sage’s Crystal Staff +5
Left hand: Anything
Head: Anything
Chest: Anything
Arms: Anything
Legs: Anything
Ring 1: Young Dragon Ring
Ring 2: Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring
Ring 3: Magic Clutch Ring
Ring 4: Red Tearstone Ring

2025-02-13 08:59