The Ultimate Guide to Dominating Baldur's Gate 3 with a Rogue Class

Rogues play a crucial role in fantasy games, particularly those centered around parties or companions like Dungeons and Dragons or the upcoming Baldur's Gate 3. Known for their expertise in finding traps, stealing, and picking locks, Rogues also offer an exciting element of stealth-based gameplay. Having a Rogue as part of the group is often seen as vital, and although Baldur's Gate 3 provides players with various companions, some may prefer to embrace the Rogue class themselves.

Those who make this choice are in for an enjoyable experience, as Baldur's Gate 3 heavily incorporates elements from Dungeons and Dragons 5E. Players can utilize stealth, sneak attacks, and more during combat, and have the freedom to be as cunning or creative as they desire in terms of roleplaying. Opting for a Human, Halfling, or specific Elven options can optimize a Baldur's Gate 3 Rogue build. Alternatively, players can dive into the game with a Half-Orc Rogue, whose idea of stealth involves eliminating all witnesses. The upcoming game from Larian Studios provides limitless possibilities, and it is only natural that some players will push the boundaries.

Baldur's Gate 3: Rogue Roleplaying Features

Interested in playing a Rogue in Baldur's Gate 3? You have two main options: creating a custom character or using the Origin Character Astarion. If you prefer to play a different class, such as a monk, recruiting Astarion early on ensures having a Rogue companion readily available. Playing as Astarion offers the perks of embodying a charming, albeit occasionally deceitful, Rogue. Additionally, there are added benefits, as Astarion is not just any Rogue. He is a vampire under the control of a sadistic master, constantly on the run from his troubled past. Reacting to this unique aspect of Astarion's character adds a fresh perspective to the Baldur's Gate 3 story, creating an experience that standard Rogue classes may not provide. The inclusion of vampiric elements adds depth to roleplay opportunities and opens up exciting avenues for players, alongside the regular rogue options.

Either way, Rogues are also excellent for their versatility and wide range of skills, ensuring players always have a modifier to apply to most dice rolls. Because of this, players will feel well-prepared for any unexpected encounters or challenges. Additionally, outside of combat situations, Rogues excel at sneaking and maneuvering stealthily, making it easier for them to navigate their surroundings. In certain quests, a Rogue's cleverness and extensive toolkit may be crucial for successful completion. For instance, if players are planning a heist in the city of Baldur's Gate, having a custom Rogue character in their party could prove invaluable. While it's not impossible for a heavily-armored Paladin to attempt stealth, a Rogue will undoubtedly have the upper hand in this regard. Overall, the Rogue class is ideal for those who prefer a stealthy playstyle and value party abilities such as lockpicking, which can be executed with exceptional proficiency.

Baldur's Gate 3: Rogue Gameplay Features

Rogues, from a gameplay perspective, are known as the versatile class that excels in various areas but does not specialize in any specific one. At the start of their journey, they possess a multitude of proficiencies, skills, and stealth-related maneuvers, such as sneak attacks. Additionally, Rogues have the opportunity to further enhance their skillset by choosing one of three subclasses: Thief, Arcane Trickster, or Assassin. Sneak Attack stands as the defining characteristic of Rogues in Dungeons and Dragons, and it remains true in this context as well. This ability not only augments the damage dealt but also proves to be user-friendly. Consequently, Rogues have the potential to swiftly transform into glass cannons, capable of inflicting significant damage. However, the mobility offered by this class during combat is equally noteworthy. With the aid of level 2 Rogue abilities such as Cunning Action: Dash and Disengage, many Rogue players can attain both the desired damage output and the necessary agility.

Core Baldur's Gate 3 Rogue Features

Dex and Int Saving Throw Proficiencies

Light armor, Simple Weapon, Hand Crossbow, Longsword, Rapier, and Shortsword Proficiencies

Expertise: Doubles Proficiency Bonus on 2 Skills

The core elements mentioned above only scratch the surface. Subclasses play a crucial role in guiding a Rogue's development. The Thief subclass offers great utility, granting an additional bonus action with its Fast Hands feature. Further utility options become available as the Rogue progresses. On the other hand, in Baldur's Gate 3, the Arcane Trickster subclass enhances the Rogue's overall utility by providing a complete spell list. While they may not possess the same magical proficiency as classes such as the Wizard or Sorcerer, having damage spells like Thunderwave or Witch Bolt, defensive spells like Mage Armor, and even fun, chaotic spells like Disguise Self (usable even outside of combat) greatly enhance both roleplay and gameplay experiences for the Rogue class.

Second-Story Work

Arcane Trickster FeaturesSpell List

The Mage Hand Legerdermain subclass for the Rogue in Baldur's Gate 3 is relatively unknown, as it was not available during Early Access. Mirroring its Dungeons and Dragons counterpart, the Assassin, it is evident that these Rogues excel in the art of death, enhancing their effectiveness in combat. In fact, their initial ability alone provides them with an advantage on attack rolls against foes who have yet to act, making them particularly formidable at the start of a battle. If the game stays true to its DnD roots, players can anticipate the inclusion of lethal poison usage as well.

Assassinate Feature

It is important to note the significance of the Uncanny Dodge feat for Rogues, which greatly enhances their survivability. In Baldur's Gate 3, Rogues acquire Uncanny Dodge at level 5, allowing them to only take half damage from applicable attacks. While Rogues may still be perceived as fragile, this feature greatly strengthens any Rogue build. Ultimately, they remain highly skilled and versatile individuals, with Rogue builds offering some of the most exciting options overall. And this doesn't even include the potential for Multiclassing in Baldur's Gate 3. Regardless, players who enjoy stealth will greatly appreciate the versatility of this class.

Baldur's Gate 3 releases on August 3 on PC and September 6 on PS5.