Unleash the Power: Mastering the Pact of the Blade in Baldur's Gate 3

In Baldur's Gate 3, players have the option to select different subclasses for each class, although not all choices from D&D 5e are available. One specific subclass missing from the game is the Hexblade Warlock. However, the game compensates for this by enhancing one of the Warlock's pact options at level 3, resembling the role of the Hexblade. This upgraded version of "Pact of the Blade" in Baldur's Gate 3 incorporates a bonus typically associated with the "Hex Warrior" trait from the Hexblade subclass. As a result, players can still create a melee-focused warlock despite the absence of the subclass. This guide will outline the disparities between the game's "Pact of the Blade" and the original version in D&D 5e.

How Pact of the Blade Works in D&D 5e

In D&D 5e, the Warlock class can obtain the ability "Pact of the Blade" at level 3. This ability allows them to create a magic weapon of their choice as an action. They are considered proficient with the weapon and it will disappear if they are more than 5ft away from it for longer than 1 minute. Additionally, they can perform a ritual for one hour to convert any weapon they are holding into a pact weapon, which grants the same benefits as "Pact of the Blade". This allows them to dismiss and summon the weapon as needed. They can only have one magic weapon affected by this ability at a time, and if they die while it is dismissed, the weapon will reappear next to them. This ability pairs well with the Hexblade Patron's "Hex Warrior" ability, which allows the Warlock to use their Charisma modifier for attack and damage with a one-handed weapon they imbue with power, or with any pact weapon regardless of its properties.

How Pact of the Blade Works in Baldur's Gate 3

In Baldur's Gate 3, players can select the "Pact of the Blade" at level 3 as a Warlock. This ability summons a magical weapon of their choice as an action. They gain proficiency with this weapon and can use their Charisma modifier for attack and damage rolls when using it. Additionally, they can convert a held weapon into a pact weapon with the same benefits until their next long rest, allowing them to use their Charisma instead of Strength or Dexterity. This grants them versatility in weapon choices and enhances their combat abilities when not relying on spells. Choosing the Fiend as their patron can be advantageous for Warlocks seeking increased survivability in close combat, as they gain Temporary Hit Points when killing a creature.

Baldur's Gate 3 is available now for PC and Mac and releases on 09/06/2023 for PS5.