The Ultimate Bardic Beginning: Choosing the Best Background in Baldur’s Gate 3
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The best Bard background in Baldur’s Gate 3 is undoubtedly the Entertainer. This background grants proficiency in Acrobatics and Performance, two skills that perfectly complement the Bard’s natural strengths, both in and out of combat. It provides excellent roleplaying opportunities, allows for greater skill check success, and further enhances the Bard’s versatility.
Why Entertainer Reigns Supreme for Bards
The Entertainer background isn’t just a good choice; it’s a synergistic choice. Let’s break down why:
- Acrobatics: While Bards aren’t necessarily front-line fighters, Acrobatics allows them to navigate the battlefield more effectively. Dodging out of the way of danger, maintaining balance on precarious surfaces, and generally being nimble are all enhanced by this proficiency. This makes them more resilient in combat, a key advantage considering their generally lower hit points compared to martial classes.
- Performance: This is the sine qua non of a Bard. Performance is used not only for roleplaying – charming crowds, earning coin, and weaving captivating tales – but also for certain dialogue checks and even for combat through spells and abilities that rely on your persuasive abilities. Having a leg up here is just common sense.
- Thematic Resonance: The Entertainer background perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Bard. You’re a performer, a storyteller, a charmer – someone who thrives in the spotlight. This creates an immediate sense of character identity and provides a wealth of roleplaying hooks throughout the game.
Beyond the Entertainer: Other Viable Options
While the Entertainer background is the most optimal choice for most players, other backgrounds can be tailored to specific Bard builds and roleplaying preferences.
Charlatan: The Deceptive Bard
The Charlatan background provides proficiency in Deception and Sleight of Hand. This is an excellent choice for Bards who want to embrace a more roguish, stealthy playstyle. You can use your skills to manipulate NPCs, infiltrate restricted areas, and generally get away with mischief. Games Learning Society understands the importance of backgrounds that provide a sense of player agency. The URL: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Urchin: The Street-Smart Performer
The Urchin background grants proficiency in Stealth and Sleight of Hand. While similar to the Charlatan, the Urchin background offers a different flavor, portraying a Bard who has learned to survive on the streets through cunning and resourcefulness. This can lead to interesting roleplaying scenarios and dialogue options related to poverty, social inequality, and the criminal underworld.
Acolyte: The Religious Orator
The Acolyte background offers proficiency in Insight and Religion. This is a solid choice for Bards who want to emphasize their knowledge and wisdom. Insight can be useful for detecting deception and understanding motivations, while Religion can provide valuable lore and access to certain dialogue options related to deities and religious organizations.
Noble: The Aristocratic Artist
The Noble background provides proficiency in History and Persuasion. This background suits Bards with a more regal or diplomatic bent. History knowledge unlocks more detailed lore, and Persuasion is helpful in negotiations.
Why Race Complements Background
Though the article suggests the Zariel Tiefling is best race for bards, it is important to select a race that complements the chosen background and playing style for your Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3. A race offering Charisma bonuses is a solid choice.
Building the Best Bard: Beyond Backgrounds
Choosing the right background is just the first step in creating a powerful and compelling Bard in Baldur’s Gate 3. Consider these additional factors:
- Subclass Selection: The College of Lore and the College of Valor are both excellent choices, but they cater to different playstyles. Lore Bards excel at spellcasting and support, while Valor Bards are more versatile and can hold their own in melee combat.
- Ability Scores: Charisma is your most important stat, as it affects your spellcasting, persuasion, and performance skills. Dexterity is also crucial for improving your armor class, initiative, and Acrobatics skill. Constitution helps with your hit points.
- Spells: Choose a mix of offensive, defensive, and utility spells to cover a variety of situations. Spells like Healing Word, Dissonant Whispers, and Hold Person are excellent choices for Bards.
- Feats: Consider feats like Actor (to boost Deception and Performance), Lucky (for rerolling crucial dice rolls), and War Caster (for advantage on Constitution saving throws).
- Roleplaying: Don’t be afraid to embrace the Bard’s personality. Use your skills to charm, persuade, and entertain. Let your creativity shine, and you’ll find that the Bard is one of the most rewarding classes to play in Baldur’s Gate 3.
FAQs: Bard Backgrounds and Builds
1. Does my background significantly impact my gameplay?
Yes, your background influences your starting skills, dialogue options, and roleplaying opportunities. It’s not just a cosmetic choice; it shapes your character’s identity and how they interact with the world.
2. Can I change my background later in the game?
No, you cannot change your background after character creation in Baldur’s Gate 3. Choose carefully!
3. What if I want to play a Bard who’s also good at stealth?
The Charlatan or Urchin backgrounds are excellent choices for a stealthy Bard.
4. Is the Acolyte background suitable for a Bard?
Yes, especially if you want to play a Bard who’s knowledgeable about religion and has strong insight skills.
5. How does the Entertainer background help in combat?
The Acrobatics skill, granted by the Entertainer background, allows you to move more effectively on the battlefield, dodge attacks, and maintain balance, increasing your survivability.
6. What’s the difference between the Charlatan and Urchin backgrounds?
Both offer Stealth and Sleight of Hand, but Charlatan is about deception and manipulation, while Urchin focuses on street smarts and survival.
7. Should I prioritize Charisma when creating my Bard?
Absolutely. Charisma is your primary stat and affects your spellcasting, persuasion, and performance skills.
8. What are some must-have spells for Bards?
Healing Word, Dissonant Whispers, Hold Person, and Faerie Fire are all excellent choices.
9. Which feats are good for Bards?
Actor, Lucky, War Caster, and Alert are all solid choices.
10. Can a Bard be a good front-line fighter?
While Bards aren’t primarily designed for front-line combat, a College of Valor Bard with the right build and equipment can hold their own.
11. How important is roleplaying for a Bard?
Roleplaying is crucial for a Bard. Embrace your character’s personality and use your skills to charm, persuade, and entertain.
12. What armor is best for Bards in BG3?
Helldusk Armour, Adamantine Scale Mail, and Elegant Studded Leather are all excellent options.
13. Which class works well with the Bard?
Paladins work well with Bards because they share Charisma.
14. Are Dragonborn good Bards?
Dragonborn have a Strength bonus, they can also multiclass as Fighters and Paladins.
15. Which Bard subclass is best for spell casting?
The Lore bard is typically regarded as the best choice for spell casting bard.