Baldur's Gate 3's Game-Changing Feature: Master the Art of Dual-Wielding Crossbows

Highlights

Hand crossbows in Baldur's Gate 3 are a unique and pleasantly surprising ranged weapon option.

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Using two hand crossbows simultaneously enables backup attacks and can double the potential damage output.

Although hand crossbows are not common and have a limited range, they are well-suited for characters who possess high Dexterity but lack magical capabilities.

Baldur's Gate 3 offers a wide array of weapons and spells that players can utilize in their quest to defeat enemies. Among the various options available, there are the conventional fantasy choices such as fireballs and longbows. However, it is the unique physical ranged attack of hand crossbows that truly captures the attention of players as one of the game's most delightful surprises.

As the name implies, hand crossbows are small crossbows that can be held in one hand. Though they possess slightly lower maximum damage compared to other crossbows, they remain highly effective in the game. The distinguishing factor that sets hand crossbows apart from other ranged weapons in Baldur's Gate 3 is their ability to provide reliable damage from a distance, making them an excellent choice for characters who lack the capability to cast the game's dependable cantrips.

Dual-Wielding Hand Crossbows is a Surprisingly Optimal Ranged Option

Baldur's Gate 3 offers a unique option for ranged combat: dual-wielding hand crossbows. Similar to dual-wielding smaller melee weapons, this allows players to have a backup attack with a bonus action if their initial ranged attack misses.

What sets hand crossbows apart even further is that unlike dual-wielding melee weapons, there is no damage reduction when using the off-hand crossbow. This means that the potential damage output when attacking from a distance is essentially doubled. In fact, even when compared to a heavy crossbow, assuming both hits are optimal, the hand crossbows deal far more damage. Even if both attacks hit for minimum damage, the hand crossbows still inflict significant harm on the enemy, almost as much as the bulkier alternative.

The off-hand crossbow has no accuracy penalties, making it function as a second attack. At level 5, certain classes gain an extra attack, allowing for a total of 3 potential attacks within a short time of starting a Baldur's Gate 3 playthrough.

Characters who prioritize Dexterity would find hand crossbows to be ideal, as they scale with this stat. This weapon type is particularly beneficial for the best Rogue builds in Baldur's Gate 3, offering significant damage from a distance. However, it is also advantageous for any character relying on Dexterity and lacking magical abilities.

Monks in Baldur's Gate 3 are a surprising class that can greatly benefit from utilizing hand crossbows due to their proficiency in this weapon type. By dual-wielding hand crossbows, monks can maintain their strength and power even when they have not yet closed the distance with their enemies. However, one drawback is that finding hand crossbows in the game is extremely rare compared to their two-handed counterparts. This means that players may have to spend a substantial portion of the game with only a single character having this option.

Furthermore, even if players do find hand crossbows, they are unlikely to be unique or rank among the best ranged weapons in Baldur's Gate 3. The true value of hand crossbows lies in wielding them as a pair, and any additional modifiers would most likely have to come from using elemental arrows or equipping accessories that enhance ranged attacks.

Additionally, their range is shorter compared to other crossbows, making them less effective for long-range stealth attacks or keeping the attacker safe. However, this is not a major issue since most battles occur within close range, allowing them to showcase their full potential.

Despite these minor limitations, utilizing dual-wielding hand crossbows proves to be one of the game's pleasant surprises and is highly suitable for party setups in Baldur's Gate 3. By acquiring a pair of these weapons, players can optimize their gameplay and deal significant damage from a distance.

Baldur's Gate 3 is out now on PC and will come out September 6 for PS5.