Unleashing the Ultimate Dwarven Powerhouse in Baldur's Gate 3: Early Access

The Dwarf is a prominent character in both Baldur's Gate 3 and the Dungeons and Dragons tabletop RPG, on which the video game is based. While some fans are already familiar with the Dwarf's fantasy origins, even those with limited knowledge can easily recognize the typical Tolkien-style Dwarf.

As a result, these Dwarfs often face certain unfortunate stereotypes, such as being portrayed as alcoholic sword-and-board fighters. While this is one way to approach playing them in Baldur's Gate 3, it is important to note that Dwarfs can also excel in other roles, just like any other race in the game.

Gold Dwarf - Life Domain Cleric

Critics may argue that the Gold Dwarf lacks a significant bonus to Constitution, which is not a primary attribute for any class in terms of attack. However, the main purpose of Life Domain Clerics is to focus on healing and providing occasional frontline assistance. This inherent robustness is ideal for their role, making the disadvantage in attack negligible.

In terms of weapon proficiencies, Gold Dwarfs are capable of utilizing weapons typically designated for other classes in the event that they need to engage in combat. Once inspired, a Gold Dwarf Cleric becomes incredibly versatile and excels in providing support in various aspects.

Shield Dwarf - Barbarian

The Shield Dwarf may have "shield" in its name, but it excels as a damage-dealing Barbarian. With a +2 boost to Strength and Constitution, which are crucial attributes for Barbarians, it is considered one of the top choices for this class.

Although Dwarfs possess certain proficiencies, it is absolutely acceptable to remain unarmored while taking full advantage of both the Shield Dwarf and Barbarian abilities. Just remember to keep a ranged weapon handy to sustain the Rage status.

Gold Dwarf - Druid

The Druid utilizes the Gold Dwarf's +1 wisdom to enhance their spellcasting abilities. Additionally, the Druid's shape-shifting powers are further enhanced by the Gold Dwarf's bonus to constitution, allowing them to withstand more damage as a frontline animal.

Playing with friends can provide support in different areas, but there are distinct advantages to being able to both tank damage and cast spells with the same character. Notably, the Gold Dwarf's expertise with weapons allows the Druid to deliver more powerful strikes compared to other Druid races.

Shield Dwarf - Great Weapon Fighter

While Defence and Protection may seem attractive as subclasses for the Shield Dwarf, the additional Constitution attribute enables the class to trade off armor class (AC) for increased damage. By combining the inherent resilience of the Shield Dwarf race with the ability to unleash devastating bursts of damage, Great Weapon Fighting proves to be a formidable option.

Among the Fighter's various subclasses, all are viable choices, particularly due to the +2 Strength bonus. In addition, the Great Weapon Fighter possesses the ability to heal through Second Wind, offering a safeguard against critical hits. However, the primary focus will largely revolve around dealing massive amounts of physical damage as a Shield Dwarf.

Baldur's Gate 3 is currently in Early Access for PC and will be released on August 3rd, 2023. The PlayStation 5 version will follow on September 6th, 2023. We are currently working on developing a version for Xbox Series X/S.