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Introduction
Baldur’s Gate 3, is the talk of the town. Offering players a plethora of customization options. With a myriad of Races and Classes to choose from, it's like finding a needle in a haystack. Among these, the Bard stands out like a sore thumb. A versatile character, capable of both combat and magic. This guide spills the beans, providing a comprehensive breakdown to create the most effective Bard build in BG3. But is it really the best guide out there?
Key Attributes of a Bard
Primary Stats: When the chips are down, the success of a Bard largely depends on the right allocation of stats. Charisma is the most crucial, followed by Dexterity and Constitution. A high Charisma score is the ace up the Bard's sleeve, allowing them to excel in controlling situations using Deception, Persuasion, and Performance. It also determines the damage modifiers for Spells. Dexterity influences damage modifiers for Melee and Ranged Weapon attacks, while Constitution is the backbone, determining the Bard's HP.Optimal Starting Stats for a Bard
- Strength: 8
- Dexterity: 15
- Constitution: 14
- Intelligence: 10
- Wisdom: 10
- Charisma: 17
Best Races for a Bard Build
- Human: Offers Shield Proficiency and a Skill Proficiency through the Human Versatility trait. It's like having an extra arrow in your quiver.
- Zariel Tiefling: Provides additional Spells through Racial Feats, enhancing the Bard's versatility. It's like adding another string to their bow.
- High Half-Elf: Grants Shield Proficiency and a bonus Cantrip, adding to the Bard's defensive and magical capabilities.
- Drow: Ideal for a Melee Magic Bard, offering proficiency in various weapons and additional Spells. But is it the best choice for everyone?
Bard Subclasses
The Bard can choose from three subclasses: College of Lore, College of Valour, and College of Swords. The choice is like choosing between apples and oranges, depending on whether the player wants to prioritize magic or melee combat.
Level-wise Recommendations for Bards
- Level 3: Prioritize Charisma-based skills such as Performance, Persuasion, Intimidation, and Deception.
- Level 4: Opt for an Ability Increase, adding +2 to Charisma. It's like hitting the jackpot.
- Level 8: Choose Ability Increase and add +2 to Dexterity.
- Level 10: Boost Charisma-based skills or Dexterity-based skills. It's like having your cake and eating it too.
- Level 12: Opt for an Ability Increase, adding +1 to both Charisma and Dexterity.
Spell & Cantrip Choices for Bards
Bards have a wide array of Spells and Cantrips to choose from. Some of the best choices include:
- Cantrips: Vicious Mockery, Blade Ward, Mage Hand
- Level 1 Spells: Speak With Animals, Thunderwave, Faerie Fire, Feather Fall, Cure Wounds, Healing Word
- Level 2 Spells: Hold Person, Cloud of Daggers, Heat Metal
- Level 3 Spells: Stinking Cloud, Plant Growth, Hypnotic Pattern
- Level 4 Spells: Dimension Door
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary stat for a Bard in BG3?
A: The primary stat for a Bard in BG3 is Charisma. It plays a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness of the Bard's abilities, especially in controlling situations and casting spells.
Q2: Which Races are most suitable for a Bard build?
A: Some of the most suitable races for a Bard build include Human, Zariel Tiefling, High Half-Elf, and Drow. Each of these races offers unique advantages that complement the Bard's abilities.
Q3: How does the Drow race benefit a Bard build?
A: The Drow race is beneficial for Bards aiming for a Melee Magic build. They provide proficiency in weapons like Rapiers, Shortswords, and Hand Crossbows, and also grant useful Spells as part of their Racial Features.
Q4: What are the Bard subclasses available in BG3?
A: Bards in BG3 can choose from three subclasses: College of Lore, College of Valour, and College of Swords. Each subclass offers distinct advantages, catering to different playstyles.