Can You Dual Wield Longswords in Baldur’s Gate 3? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: yes, but with a condition. By default, you cannot dual wield longswords in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3). Longswords lack the “light” property, which is a prerequisite for dual wielding in the game’s base rules. However, there’s a specific way to circumvent this limitation: by taking the Dual Wielder feat. This feat allows you to dual wield weapons that don’t have the light property, including the versatile longsword. This opens up exciting build possibilities, allowing you to unleash a flurry of attacks with two formidable blades. But is it always the optimal choice? Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics, trade-offs, and viable builds to help you decide if dual wielding longswords is right for your BG3 adventure.
Understanding Dual Wielding Mechanics in BG3
Before we explore the nuances of dual wielding longswords, it’s essential to grasp the core mechanics that govern this combat style in Baldur’s Gate 3.
The “Light” Weapon Requirement
The fundamental rule of dual wielding in BG3 is that both weapons must be tagged as “light”. This designation primarily applies to smaller, more easily wielded weapons, such as daggers, shortswords, scimitars, handaxes, and light hammers. Without any specific feats or abilities, these are the weapons you’ll be limited to when dual wielding.
The Dual Wielder Feat: Bypassing the Limitation
The Dual Wielder feat is the key to unlocking the potential of dual wielding longswords. This feat grants the following benefits:
- You gain a +1 bonus to AC while wielding a separate melee weapon in each hand.
- You can use two-weapon fighting even when the one-handed melee weapons you are wielding aren’t light.
- You can draw or stow two one-handed weapons when you would normally be able to draw or stow only one.
The most important aspect is the second point, as it removes the “light” weapon restriction, allowing you to wield two longswords simultaneously.
Bonus Action Requirement
It’s important to remember that performing an attack with your off-hand weapon when dual wielding consumes your bonus action. This means you’ll need to carefully consider your action economy in combat. Some classes and subclasses, like the Thief Rogue, gain additional bonus actions, making dual wielding a more attractive option for them.
Longswords in Baldur’s Gate 3: Versatility and Damage
Longswords in BG3 are versatile weapons that can be wielded in one or two hands.
One-Handed vs. Two-Handed Wielding
When wielded in one hand, a longsword deals 1d8 slashing damage, plus your Strength modifier. When wielded in two hands, the damage increases to 1d10 slashing damage, plus your Strength modifier.
The Absence of the “Light” Property
As mentioned earlier, the longsword’s lack of the “light” property is the primary obstacle to dual wielding it without the Dual Wielder feat. This balances the weapon’s versatility and damage output.
Is Dual Wielding Longswords Worth It? Weighing the Pros and Cons
Now that we understand the mechanics, let’s evaluate whether dual wielding longswords is a worthwhile investment in BG3.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Damage Output: Dual wielding two longswords can potentially lead to higher damage output compared to using a single weapon, especially if you have ways to enhance your attacks (e.g., through buffs, enchantments, or class features).
- Additional Attacks: The ability to make an extra attack with your off-hand weapon provides more opportunities to apply on-hit effects or trigger specific talents.
- Synergy with Certain Builds: Some classes and subclasses, like the Fighter or Rogue, can benefit significantly from the increased attack frequency and damage potential of dual wielding.
Potential Drawbacks
- Feat Investment: The Dual Wielder feat is a significant investment, especially early in the game when feats are scarce. You need to carefully consider if it’s the best option for your build.
- Bonus Action Consumption: Using your bonus action for an off-hand attack can limit your options in combat, particularly if you rely on bonus actions for other abilities or spells.
- Not Always Optimal: In many cases, other combat styles, such as two-handed weapon fighting or sword and board, may offer better overall performance or survivability.
Optimizing Your Dual Wielding Longsword Build
If you decide to pursue a dual wielding longsword build, here are some tips to optimize your character:
- Choose the Right Class/Subclass: Classes like Fighter (especially Battle Master or Champion) and Rogue (especially Thief) are well-suited for dual wielding due to their features that enhance attack frequency, damage, or bonus action economy.
- Prioritize Strength or Dexterity: Depending on your class and preferred fighting style, focus on either Strength (for melee-focused builds) or Dexterity (for finesse-based builds).
- Consider Feats: Besides Dual Wielder, other useful feats include Savage Attacker (to improve damage rolls) and Alert (to gain initiative and act earlier in combat).
- Seek Out Synergistic Gear: Look for weapons and armor that provide bonus damage, attack rolls, or other benefits that enhance your dual wielding capabilities. There are several items in the game that add damage to your attacks, improving the economy of dual wielding.
Dual Wielding Longswords: A Final Verdict
Dual wielding longswords in BG3 can be a fun and effective combat style, but it requires careful planning and optimization. It’s not a universally optimal choice, and you should weigh the pros and cons before committing to the Dual Wielder feat.
Ultimately, the best build is one that suits your playstyle and allows you to enjoy the game. So, experiment with different options, find what works best for you, and have fun exploring the vast world of Baldur’s Gate 3! For those interested in exploring the educational aspects of gaming and game design, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to discover research, resources, and a vibrant community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are “light” weapons in BG3?
Light weapons are smaller, easily wielded melee weapons that meet the default requirements for dual wielding. Examples include daggers, shortswords, scimitars, handaxes, and light hammers.
2. Can you dual wield rapiers in BG3?
No, rapiers are not “light” weapons. To dual wield rapiers, you need the Dual Wielder feat.
3. Is dual wielding better than using a two-handed weapon?
It depends on your build and playstyle. Two-handed weapons generally deal more damage per hit, while dual wielding offers more attacks. Consider your class features, feats, and gear when making this decision.
4. Does dual wielding increase your damage output?
Potentially, yes. Dual wielding gives you an extra attack, which can lead to higher overall damage, especially if you have ways to enhance your attacks (e.g., through buffs or enchantments).
5. What classes are best for dual wielding in BG3?
Classes like Fighter (Battle Master, Champion) and Rogue (Thief) are well-suited for dual wielding due to their abilities that enhance attack frequency, damage, or bonus action economy.
6. How does the bonus action work with dual wielding?
Attacking with your off-hand weapon when dual wielding consumes your bonus action. This limits what else you can do in the same turn.
7. Can I dual wield hand crossbows?
Yes, hand crossbows are “light” weapons, so you can dual wield them without a feat. Dual hand crossbows can be extremely potent, particularly when combined with certain class features.
8. What is the Dual Wielder feat?
The Dual Wielder feat allows you to dual wield weapons that aren’t “light,” grants a +1 bonus to AC, and allows you to draw or stow two one-handed weapons at once.
9. Is there a best dual wielding build in BG3?
There’s no single “best” build, as it depends on your preferences. However, a Thief Rogue dual wielding hand crossbows is considered one of the most powerful builds in the game.
10. Can I dual wield greatswords?
No, you cannot dual wield greatswords in BG3. Greatswords are two-handed weapons.
11. Does the Dueling fighting style work with a longsword?
No, the Dueling fighting style requires you to use a single, one-handed melee weapon and have your other hand free.
12. What are some good feats for a dual wielding character?
Besides Dual Wielder, other useful feats include Savage Attacker (to improve damage rolls) and Alert (to gain initiative).
13. What is the best piercing weapon in BG3?
Duellist’s Prerogative is one of the best rapiers and melee weapons in BG3, dealing piercing and necrotic damage.
14. Is the Oath of Vengeance Paladin a good class in BG3?
Yes, the Oath of Vengeance Paladin is considered one of the strongest classes in BG3 due to its versatility, damage output, and survivability.
15. Are there any items that enhance dual wielding?
Yes, there are several items in BG3 that add damage to your attacks, making dual wielding more effective. Experiment to find gear that synergizes with your build.