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Best Builds for Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3

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best BG3 bard build

Key Cantrips for the best BG3 bard build include Blade Ward and Minor Illusion. Essential Spells include Bane and Hold Person.

In Baldur’s Gate 3, where the thrill of battle calls out like a charming melody, the Bard class stands out as a unique and flexible choice for those who want to change what becomes of history. If the idea of being in charge of song and dance sounds appealing to you, the Bard build could be your ticket to becoming a powerful class in the world of games. This guide goes into detail about how to make the best BG3 Bard build. It talks about Cantrips and Spells, Proficiencies, and good ways to level up your character.

Bard
Bard

Best BG3 Bard build

Bards might look like they’re just making up minstrels, but they have a lot of hidden talent. To use this power well, you must understand the role of the Bard in your party and how to improve their skills. A Bard starts a journey with two Cantrips, two Level 2 Spell slots, and a unique ability called “Bardic Inspiration.” This unique ability gives a +1d6 bonus to Attack Rolls, Ability Checks, and Saving Throws, making Bards important members of any team.

Upon reaching Level 3, Bards can start on one of three distinct paths:

  • College of Lore: Get into the arcane arts and attract both friends and enemies with your mesmerizing knowledge.
  • College of Valor: Narrate epic tales of heroes past and present while filling the courage of your companions on the battlefield.
  • College of Swords: Master the art of combat, seamlessly blending the use of words and weapons to become a strong force.

As you get on your journey, it’s crucial to select the right weapons, armor, and skills to complement your Bard build. Here are some key considerations:

Bards are proficient in a variety of weapons, including simple weapons, hand crossbows, longswords, rapiers, and shortswords. This versatility allows you to adapt your playstyle to your preferences. Bards favor agility over heavy armor, making them proficient in light armor. This ensures that you can maintain your mobility while weaving spells and songs on the battlefield. Choose three skills from a range of options, including Performance, Persuasion, Deception, Sleight of Hand, and Acrobatics. These skills can enhance your ability to navigate the challenges that await you.

Crafting the Ideal Bard

To maximize your Bard’s potential, consider the following choices for race, background, and skills:

Best BG3 Bard Build: Race 

The High Elf race offers several advantages, including Darkvision and an extra Cantrip. Darkvision allows you to see in low light and darkness, a valuable asset in the shadows of Baldur’s Gate. Additionally, you gain access to one Cantrip from the Wizard Spell list, broadening your magical repertoire. Perception proficiency further aids in uncovering hidden secrets.

Best BG3 Bard Build: Background

The Entertainer background provides proficiency in Acrobatics and Performance. Acrobatics enhances your balance and agility, while Performance allows you to attract and entertain your audience, be it a raucous tavern or the chaos of combat.

Best BG3 Bard Build: Skill Proficiencies

Deception, Sleight of Hand, and Persuasion are the key skills to unlock your Bard’s potential. Deception conceals the truth when needed, Sleight of Hand aids in dexterous feats, and Persuasion enables you to influence others with grace and charm. With this build, you can solve puzzles and survive the Underdark.

Best BG3 Bard Build: Subclass

For those seeking unparalleled power, the College of Valor stands out as the most potent Bard subclass. This college introduces Combat Inspiration, a feature that enhances Bardic Inspiration by applying its benefits not only to Attack rolls and Ability Checks but also to damage and armor class. This makes it the pinnacle choice for those who wish to excel in both support and combat roles. Check out some companion builds of Astarion, Gale, Halsin, and Jaheira.

Best BG3 Bard Build: Spells and Cantrips

Bards possess a versatile array of spells and Cantrips, allowing for adaptable gameplay. Here are our recommendations for the best spells and Cantrips at various levels:

Best Bard Cantrips

  • Level 1 Cantrips: Blade Ward, True Strike
  • Level 4 Cantrip: Vicious Mockery
  • Level 10 Cantrip: Minor Illusion

Top Bard Spells by Spell Level

  • Level 1: Bane
  • Level 2: Hold Person, Silence
  • Level 3: Bestow Curse
  • Level 4: Greater Invisibility
  • Level 5: Hold Monster
  • Level 6: Otto’s Irresistible Dance
Bard
Bard

Bard Feats

Bards can select feats at Levels 4, 8, and 12, enhancing their capabilities. The following feats are recommended to optimize your Bard build:

  • Level 4: Resilient
  • Level 8: Alert
  • Level 12: Lucky

Resilient increases an Ability Score by +1 and grants Proficiency in that Ability’s Saving Throws, enhancing your concentration and resilience. Alert provides a +5 Initiative bonus, ensuring you act swiftly in combat. Lastly, Lucky grants Advantage on various rolls and the ability to force opponents to reroll their attacks, making it a versatile and powerful choice.  You can use more builds for Shadowheart, Wyll, Minsc, and Minthara.

FAQs

What is the primary role of a Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3?

A Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3 can fulfill multiple roles, including support, crowd control, and damage dealing. They use their unique abilities, such as Bardic Inspiration and spells, to sway the outcome of battles and entertain with their talents.

Which Bard subclass is recommended for optimal performance in the game?

The College of Valor is the recommended Bard subclass for those looking to excel in both support and combat. It enhances Bardic Inspiration, making it a powerful choice for players who want to contribute to damage output and defense.

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