Mastering the Melodies: Unleashing the Ultimate Bard Build in Baldur's Gate 3

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The Bard Basics

The Race: Guarantee Spellcasting

The Background: Emphasize On Charisma

The Ability Array: Life Takes Second Priority

Level 1: Pursue Basic Survivability

Level 2: Grab Some More Healing

Level 3: Cement Healing Specialization, Prioritize Combat Role

Level 4: Enhance Combat Strategy

Fans of narrative-focused games eagerly anticipate Baldur's Gate 3 as a highly anticipated sequel, recognizing the intense storylines prevalent in classic CRPGs. In this installment, players find themselves caught in the midst of an ongoing invasion by mind-flayers in Faerun, and their only means of combating this seemingly insurmountable threat is by utilizing their chosen Class and skillset.

For players seeking to embody the distinct Bard persona from Dungeons & Dragons, tailoring their Baldur's Gate 3 Bard character for optimal performance and considering potential optimization options is essential. However, achieving the perfect Bard requires a strategic approach.

Updated by Erik Petrovich on August 4, 2023: Following the full release of Baldur's Gate 3, numerous changes have occurred compared to the Early Access version. The introduction of new subclasses and an expanded maximum level has reshaped players' perceptions of the ideal Bard build in BG3. As fans delve deeper into the game, these ideas will likely continue to evolve. This guide has been updated to align with the full release version of Baldur's Gate 3, providing accurate information. Nevertheless, it only offers build choices up to Level 4. Stay tuned for further advice on creating the ultimate Bard build, as the Baldur's Gate 3 community gains more insight into the class's performance at higher levels.

The Point Of The Bard

If players of the Baldur's Gate game are unfamiliar with the original Dungeons & Dragons 5e sourcebook, they may not fully grasp what to expect from the Bard Class. As one of the starting Classes in D&D 5e, the Bard offers a versatile character build that combines utility and combat skills. While they are often joked about for their enticing charisma, there are several other reasons why players may choose the Bard Class as their go-to option.

Bardic Inspiration: Bardic Inspiration is the standout feature of the Class, providing Bards with the ability to significantly enhance their allies. This allows them to add additional dice to any d20 roll, with the potency growing as Bards progress in level.

Abilities: Players should focus on developing their Charisma and Dexterity. A high Charisma enables Bards to cast potent spells and utilize battlefield utilities effectively, while having a decent amount of Dexterity allows them to deal considerable damage in weapon combat.

Spellcasting: Bards possess the ability to cast Spells, utilizing CHA as their Spellcasting Modifier, which grants the party diverse advantages in combat and simplifies interactions outside of battle.

Subclass - College of Lore: As a more academically focused path for Bards, the College of Lore offers enhanced access to utility spells that effectively support allies in combat.

Subclass - College of Valor: As the battle-focused branch of the Bards, the College of Valor empowers Bards with a range of offensive-oriented skills, equipping them to excel as frontline attackers.

The Bard Basics

When starting as a Bard in the playable version of Baldur’s Gate, it is important to first understand the initial benefits that come with this class choice. These inherent qualities often become the focal points of optimization when players aim to create a min-maxed Bard build. Here are the elements players can anticipate when embarking on their Bard journey:

InstrumentPlayers have the option to choose from a variety of musical tools as the Bard's instrument. This choice alters the game's soundscape when casting Spells and can be easily changed by switching to a different instrument.

Proficiencies in Saving Throws: Dexterity, CharismaBy adding their Proficiency Bonuses in Dexterity and Charisma, players enhance their ability to evade dangerous attacks (Acrobatics) or resist truth-disclosing Zone of Truth Spells.

Bards gain the ability to wear Light Armor without suffering attack disadvantages or limitations on spellcasting.

Bards also gain proficiency with a variety of weapons, including Simple weapons, Hand Crossbows, Longswords, Rapiers, and Shortswords. This proficiency allows Bards to add their Proficiency Bonus to their Attack Rolls, improving their chances of successfully hitting enemies.

The Race: Guarantee Spellcasting

The best Races for the Bard, a Charisma-heavy Class, are those that maximize the boosts to their Ability Score. In the Baldur's Gate title, certain Races can greatly enhance a Bard's performance in battle. One such Race is the Wood Half-Elf, who typically live quiet lives in the forests but are driven by their half-heritage to explore the rest of the Realms. Wood Half-Elves provide Bards with the benefits of Fleet of Foot, increasing their walking speed to 10.5m, and Mask of the Wild, granting them Stealth Proficiency. This makes the Wood Half-Elf Bard particularly suitable for long-range builds.

Drow: Despite their underground existence, the Drow are notorious for their worship of Lolth. However, this is only true for the Lolth-Sworn faction, as Seladrine Drows strive to separate themselves from the dark deity. As Drow, players possess Fey Ancestry, granting them an advantage when resisting charm and immunity to sleep. They also have Superior Darkvision, enabling them to see clearly in the dark within a 24-meter radius. Even without light, they can use Dancing Lights, an Evocation Cantrip, to illuminate a 12-meter area. Additionally, they excel in wielding rapiers, shortswords, and hand crossbows due to their proficiency. With their expertise in versatile weapons, the Drow is the ideal choice for enhancing a Bard's arsenal.

Human: Humans, the most widespread race in Faerun, can be found establishing lives in various regions. Although they lack distinctive racial traits, they compensate by gaining proficiency in an extra skill. As Bards are already skilled in various areas, this bonus ensures even greater success in dialogues. Humans make for a well-rounded choice when building a Bard character.

The Background: Emphasize On Charisma

The Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3 excels in both Dexterity and Charisma, but stays true to its original Dungeons & Dragons roots by emphasizing Charisma in combat. This is particularly important for impressing or intimidating adversaries, which are skills that these Backgrounds are proficient in:

Criminal (Deception, Stealth): Skilled in unlawfulness and evading capture, Criminals have a knack for blending into the shadows when necessary. With their Deception Proficiency, they can lie without significant consequences, while their Stealth proficiency allows them to seamlessly merge with shadows, making them perfect for surprise attacks. This Background is ideal for offensive builds that rely on stealth.

Guild Artisan: With their expertise in their trade, the Guild Artisan excels in specialized subjects, making them the perfect choice for a Dungeons & Dragons character focused on a traveling craftsman. Their skill in Insight allows them to acquire knowledge from what they observe, and their proficiency in Persuasion enables them to persuade others to their side. This Background is ideal for characters who excel in verbal communication.

Soldier: Equipped with training in various battlefield tactics, the Soldier is both courageous and intelligent in the midst of combat. Their proficiency in Athletics enables them to perform impressive displays of strength, while their expertise in Intimidation empowers them to instill fear and subdue others.

Charlatan (Deception, Sleight of Hand): With a remarkable talent for manipulation, Charlatans excel at inciting betrayal among allies for personal gain and amusement. Their expertise in Deception enables them to easily deceive others, while their mastery of Sleight of Hand makes thievery a breeze.

Noble (History, Persuasion): Hailing from an esteemed lineage, Nobles place great importance on gaining loyalty, prestige, and influential connections. Their proficiency in History enables them to uncover fascinating nuggets of ancient wisdom in any given situation, while their skill in Persuasion allows them to successfully garner support from others.

The Ability Array: Life Takes Second Priority

In order to optimize the performance of a Bard in the early game, players of Baldur's Gate 3, similar to other RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons, should prioritize an Ability Array that emphasizes Charisma and Dexterity. With these considerations in mind, the following setup is suggested:

Strength 12 (+1): In the event of worst-case scenarios, Strength could serve as a Bard's combat Ability, particularly for melee-oriented builds. However, it is important to also take into account how Strength affects Encumbrance.

Dexterity 14 (+2): While Dexterity is essential for combat, it should be given less importance compared to other abilities as a Bard. For Bard builds that rely on long-ranged weapons, Dexterity is crucial. Additionally, Dexterity can also be used instead of Strength for versatile weapons, which fit well with the Bard's specialization.

Constitution 16 (+3): As the main factor in determining Hit Points, Constitution becomes vital for a support-focused Bard. It is advisable to prioritize Constitution and aim for a distribution that is as close to Charisma as possible.

Intelligence 8 (-1): Since the resident spellcaster already fulfills most of the intellectual tasks relevant to Bards, Intelligence can be disregarded as a less important attribute.

Wisdom 10 (0): Given the limited instances in the game where a Bard would need a Wisdom saving throw or actively use their Wisdom for checks, it can be considered a neutral attribute.

Charisma 16 (+3): The bread and butter of the Bard’s build, it’s important they get as high Charisma as possible to maximize the output of their D&D Spells.

Level 1: Pursue Basic Survivability

When players construct their Bards for their initial playthrough of Baldur's Gate 3, it is crucial that they approach it with the intention of maximizing their combat prowess. Despite the impending Level 2, it is advisable for the Level 1 Bard to prioritize enhancing their combat capabilities to the best of their ability, while occasionally incorporating supportive Spells. It is of utmost importance for the Bard to be developed as a secondary attacker, allowing their healing abilities to serve as either a primary role or a backup option to the Cleric. Here are additional factors that players should take into account:

Bardic Inspiration (Class Feature): When using this action, you can grant a target ally a bonus of +1d6 to any d20 roll until their next Long Rest. This bonus applies to Attack Rolls, Ability Checks, and Saves. It is advisable to promptly give Bardic Inspiration to all allies, as it can be a lifesaver during emergencies.

Vicious Mockery (Cantrip): This Enchantment Cantrip inflicts 1d4 Psychic Damage on a target and imposes Disadvantage on their next Attack Roll. Consequently, this Cantrip proves to be an effective debuff against formidable adversaries.

True Strike (Cantrip): This Divination Cantrip bestows players with an Advantage on Attack Rolls against the target. With a Concentration that lasts for two (2) turns, it serves as an excellent offensive enhancement for Ranged Weapons, ensuring highly probable strikes.

Dissonant Whispers (Level 1): This Enchantment Spell not only inflicts 4d6 Psychic Damage on the target, but also induces a state of Fear. Despite the target being able to reduce damage by half with a successful Wisdom Save, 2d6 remains a formidable attack against more resilient adversaries.

Blade Ward (Level 1): The Abjuration Spell offers the user resistance against Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing damage inflicted by weapons, reducing the damage received by half.

Heroism (Level 1): The Enchantment Spell not only provides an ally with up to 5 Temporary HP, but also grants them immunity to the Frightened condition for a duration of ten (10) turns. By relying less on healing, the assurance of maximum HP enhancement through Temporary HP significantly enhances the user's chances of survival.

Healing Word (Level 1): This Evocation Spell only heals for 1d4+CHA Mod Hit Points, but this becomes a nifty emergency heal due to its nature as a Bonus Action.

Level 2: Grab Some More Healing

Once Bards reach Level 2, they unlock numerous bonuses that further solidify their position as the Dungeon & Dragons party's primary "face" or persuasive speaker. While Level 1 focused on the Bard's ability to survive, Level 2 ensures their effectiveness in combat and non-combat situations, especially when it comes to healing in the D&D game. Here are a few key points to consider:

Jack of All Trades (Class Feature): This feature enables players to enhance their non-Proficient Skills checks by incorporating half of their Proficiency Bonus (rounded down). It solidifies the Bard's skill in charming or deceiving their way towards triumph.

Song of Rest (Class Feature): Outside of combat, a Bard bestows their allies with the benefits of a Short Rest.

Cure Wounds is an essential spell for healers, as it provides 1d8+CHA Mod Hit Points through touch. Players can choose to add this spell as an additional option if they focus on healing, or replace Heroism with it using Spell Replacement.

Tasha’s Hideous Laughter is an Enchantment spell that renders the target prone and incapacitated, making them vulnerable to attacks without the risk of retaliation. Players have the choice to acquire Tasha's as a free spell or replace Heroism with it using Spell Replacement.

Level 3: Cement Healing Specialization, Prioritize Combat Role

Unlike other Classes in Dungeons & Dragons, the Bard of Baldur’s Gate 3 lacks the ability to choose a subclass or an archetype until reaching Level 3. Referred to as a Bard College, this designation solidifies the Bard's specialization throughout the game. Players can choose the College of Lore to focus on healing, or opt for the College of Valor to become a skilled combatant. Here are some key points to consider:

College Of Lore: Outside Battle Matters Too

Bards who embrace the College of Lore prioritize knowledge and truth above all else, dedicating themselves to amassing wisdom and lore from every possible source. Their prowess lies not in combat, but in their insatiable thirst for information. The College of Lore Bard is an invaluable asset for support builds seeking enhanced maneuverability outside of battle, thanks to their additional Proficiencies. Take note of the following as well:

Cutting Words (Class Feature): The Bard can weaken their opponent's combat performance by imposing a penalty of 1d6 on Attack Rolls, Ability Checks, and Damage Rolls until the start of their next turn. This ability functions similar to a negative Bardic Inspiration, aimed at debilitating the enemy.

Arcana, Intimidation, Sleight of Hand (Proficiency): Additionally, the Bard gains proficiency in Arcana (INT), Intimidation (CHA), and Sleight of Hand (DEX), expanding their capabilities beyond combat. Proficiency in Arcana allows the Bard to tap into arcane knowledge even in the absence of a spellcaster. Meanwhile, proficiency in Sleight of Hand allows the Bard to adopt a rogue-like role, proficient in stealthily acquiring items. Lastly, proficiency in Intimidation enhances the party's ability to evoke fear in enemies, increasing the chances of their submission.

College Of Valor: Cementing Offense

Players looking to maximize their Bard's combat potential should consider selecting the College of Valor. This College focuses on training Bards to stay vigilant of the heroes around them, ensuring their survival in order to pass on their heroic tales. As a result, Bards from the College of Valor must undergo rigorous training to become the very heroes they admire. Opting for the College of Valor will greatly enhance a Bard's combat effectiveness, especially in close-quarters engagements. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Combat Inspiration: Serving as an upgraded version of Bardic Inspiration, this ability allows the affected target to either add a +1d6 bonus to their Damage Roll or utilize it to gain a +4 bonus to their Armor Class against a single attack. This enables them to bolster the offensive capabilities or defensive prowess of their allies.

Medium Armor proficiency now allows Bards to cast spells and make attack rolls without penalty, making it ideal for Bards who prefer melee weapons. Additionally, Bards can now proficiently use shields without negatively affecting their attack rolls or spellcasting abilities.

Martial Weapon (Proficiency): Bards can now equip more complex weaponry, making them more in tune with Fighters regarding base damage potential.

Level 4: Optimize Combat Routine

Once players reach Level 4, they are likely to have established a "set routine" for their Bard during combat. This level presents a great opportunity for Bards to leverage these routines and enhance them even further to guarantee flawless performance, particularly considering their additional role as a support unit. Here are some factors to take into account:

+2 CHA (Ability Score Improvement): While players can choose a Feat, it's advantageous for a Bard to prioritize maximizing their CHA whenever possible to enhance their Spellcasting abilities. Having a +2 to their CHA Score can prove to be extremely valuable in the long run, particularly when utilizing more potent Spells.

Mage Hand (Cantrip): If players struggle to reach distant objects, it may be beneficial for the Bard to possess Mage Hand, enabling them to interact with items up to a distance of 18m. This clever tactic helps alleviate some burden from the Wizard, allowing them to focus on combat-oriented Spells. Although obtaining Mage Hand at Level 4 may seem like a significant wait, players are already well-acquainted with the game's mechanics by this point and recognize the advantages of utilizing Mage Hand to cleverly bend the rules to their advantage.

Enhance Ability (Free Spell/Spell Replacement, Level 2): This Transmutation Spell enables the caster to bestow a mystical enchantment upon an ally. Until the conclusion of the Spell, the ally gains Advantage on one (1) Ability Check and receives an additional benefit (+7 Temporary HP for Constitution, doubled carrying capacity for Strength, and reduced fall damage by half for Dexterity).

Lesser Restoration (Free Spell/Spell Replacement, Level 2): This Abjuration Spell empowers the caster to eliminate a single condition or disease affecting a creature, solidifying the Bard's role as a supportive force.

Crown of Madness (Free Spell/Spell Replacement, Level 2): This enchantment instills fear and anger in its target, compelling them to attack nearby creatures regardless of their allegiance.

Shatter (Free Spell/Spell Replacement, Level 2): This evocation spell inflicts up to 3d8 thunder damage on objects and creatures. While a successful saving throw results in half damage, creatures made of inorganic materials such as stone have a disadvantage when making the save.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is available on PC and will release on PlayStation 5 on September 6, 2023.