Build:E/any GvG Lightning Surge

Extremely strong split character that outputs large bursts of damage with knockdown(s). Especially effective against healers.

Frequency

 * Solosplit variant is common as the best bar in that role.
 * Duo split version is somewhat common as an alternative to Mind Shock. The duo split partner is usually a Mind Burn Elementalist.

Armor

 * 5x Blessed Insignia. Aeromancer if anticipating to play against other lightning surge elementalists.
 * Superior Vigor
 * Air rune (Minor/Major/Superior are all acceptable according to personal taste)
 * Minor Energy Storage
 * Restoration
 * Vitae

Weapons

 * Air Wand of Memory, 20% cast time
 * Air Focus of Aptitude, 20% recharge
 * Air Wand of Memory, +15/-1 energy
 * Energy Storage Focus of Fortitude, +15/-1 energy
 * Adept Air Staff of Enchanting, 20% cast time
 * Spear of Defense, +5 energy or 10% recharge or 10% cast time
 * Strength Shield of Fortitude, -20% cripple
 * Strength Shields of Fortitude, +10 armor vs each damage type

Usage

 * Maintain Air Attunement, cover with Aura of Restoration.
 * Use Lightning Surge both as a source of damage and a knockdown (e.g. against split characters being collapsed on, or on the enemy healer on splits, or as a leadup to a spike).
 * Cover Lightning Surge with Lightning Strike if needed (e.g. against monks who are actively removing Lightning Surge before the 3-second delay). Make sure to have some Overcast so that Lightning Strike has its hex effect.
 * Use Windborne Speed as needed.
 * If Shock Arrow is being used, try to land its conditional effect as often as possible for energy management. Bear in mind that Cracked Armor from Lightning Surge has a long duration, and Shock Arrow does not need to be used in sequence with other offensive spells.
 * If Gale is being used, use it to set up Lightning Surge on a kiting target or to quarterknock after Lightning Surge's knockdown.
 * If Teinai's Wind is being used, quarterrupt with it after knockdowns, or simply use it as a large nuke. Make sure to coordinate with your split partner about when Mind Burn is being used (or confirm the burning effect visually if possible).

Counters

 * Enchantment removal
 * General Anti-Caster
 * Hex removal