Baldur’s Gate 3 Subclasses Guide

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Guide to Baldur’s Gate 3 Subclasses: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Playstyle

When stepping into the immersive world of Faerun, adventurers must steel themselves for the unimaginable horrors and imminent dangers that lie in wait. Before embarking on your grand adventure, it is crucial to select the class that will serve as your foundation. But the choices don’t end there. As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to further specialize your chosen path by selecting a subclass. This comprehensive guide to Baldur’s Gate 3 subclasses will aid players in discovering which subclass best aligns with their playstyle and preferences.

What are Baldur’s Gate 3 Subclasses?

Subclasses are secondary advanced jobs that allow characters to specialize in a particular role or niche based on their primary job. These specializations can dramatically alter gameplay and your approach to various situations. Carefully selecting your subclass will significantly impact your abilities and tactics, making it essential to choose the one that best suits your preferred playstyle.

There are various factors to consider when deciding on your primary job and subclass, but the most crucial aspect to evaluate is your play style. Ask yourself whether you prefer melee or ranged combat, physical attacks or magic, and direct confrontation or stealth. Determining your desired gameplay style is key to finding the perfect subclass.

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Baldur’s Gate 3 Subclass List

In the current version of Baldur’s Gate 3, there are 12 primary jobs available, each with its own set of subclasses. As the game evolves, future updates may introduce new classes with unique specializations. For now, here are all the paths that players can choose from:

  • Barbarian
    • Wildheart
    • Berserker
    • Wild Magic
  • Bard
    • College of Valour
    • College of Lore
    • College of Swords
  • Cleric
    • Knowledge Domain
    • Life Domain
    • Light Domain
    • Nature Domain
    • Tempest Domain
    • Trickery Domain
    • War Domain
  • Druid
    • Circle of the Land
    • Circle of the Moon
    • Circle of the Spores
  • Fighter
    • Champion
    • Eldritch Knight
    • Battle Master
  • Monk
    • Way of the Four Elements
    • Way of the Open Hand
    • Way of Shadow
  • Paladin
    • Oathbreaker
    • Oath of Devotion
    • Oath of the Ancients
    • Oath of Vengeance
  • Ranger
    • Beast Master
    • Hunter
    • Gloom Stalker
  • Rogue
    • Assassin
    • Arcane Trickster
    • Thief
  • Sorcerer
    • Draconic Bloodline
    • Wild Magic
    • Storm Sorcery
  • Warlock
    • Archfey
    • The Fiend
    • The Great Old One
  • Wizard
    • Abjuration
    • Conjuration
    • Divination
    • Enchantment
    • Evocation
    • Necromancy
    • Illusion
    • Transmutation

Which Baldur’s Gate 3 Subclasses Should You Play?

Each subclass fulfills a particular role or niche within a dungeon-delving party. They have the power to transform the way a job is played, turning ranged magic-casters into front liners and vice versa. Here’s a breakdown of each subclass to help you determine which ones to try out:

Barbarian

  • Wildheart – Focused on harnessing the power of nature, Wildheart Barbarians gain abilities such as increased movement speed, resistance to elemental damage, and the ability to summon animals as allies. This subclass excels in combat and exploration, making it a versatile choice for players who enjoy various challenges.
  • Berserker – Embracing reckless abandon in combat, Berserker Barbarians gain increased damage output and pain tolerance while in a state of frenzy. However, this intense fighting style comes with drawbacks, including a loss of control and the inability to cast spells. The Berserker subclass best suits players who prioritize raw damage and are willing to take risks.
  • Wild Magic – Known for their unpredictable nature, Wild Magic Barbarians can trigger wild surges, resulting in random and varied effects. These effects can range from harmless to devastating, requiring players to exercise caution. The Wild Magic subclass offers a fun and unpredictable playstyle for those seeking a challenge and excitement.

Bard

  • College of Valour – Focusing on martial combat, this subclass enhances a Bard’s frontline capabilities. Abilities like Bardic Inspiration empower allies with bonuses to attack rolls or saving throws. Additionally, Combat Inspiration grants temporary boosts to ally AC or movement speed. The College of Valour is an excellent choice for players seeking a Bard who excels as both a fighter and spellcaster.
  • College of Lore – Delving deep into the realm of spellcasting, Bards of this subclass gain access to various spells, encompassing offensive and utility options. Cutting Words is a notable ability that allows Lore Bards to impose a disadvantage on enemy attack rolls or saving throws. Players who desire a potent spellcaster capable of supporting their allies will find the College of Lore a fitting choice.
  • College of Swords – Masterfully combining martial prowess and spellcasting finesse, Bards of this subclass utilize Bardic Inspiration to augment ally attack or damage rolls. Furthermore, the Blade Flourish abilities empower the Bard with additional damage output and temporary benefits. The College of Swords appeals to players seeking a versatile character proficient in combat and spellcasting.