Summary
With the sheer number of locked doors and chests scattered around the Sword Coast inBaldur’s Gate 3,having a Rogue on the team is definitely a necessity. This stealth-focusedBaldur’s Gate 3class is perfect for delivering powerful Sneak Attacks, robbing merchants and civilians of their hard-earned savings, and more. With utility both in and out of combat, Rogue is one of the most versatile classes inBaldur’s Gate 3.It also pairs well with many other classes for those who prefer multi-class builds.
The recruitable NPCs inBaldur’s Gate 3include one character who starts out as a Rogue, thevampire elf Astarion. However, players should keep in mind that the unwritten rules for building a custom character as a Rogue are slightly different than for building Astarion. This is because he comes with some unique quirks, such as his Vampire Bite attack. A custom Rogue should prioritize a high Dexterity score, but not neglect Charisma for when they need to get out of a sticky situation. Sleight of Hand and Stealth are the most crucial skills, but “social skills” like Deception and Persuasion can be worth picking up as well.
The Best Race And Background For A Rogue
When building a Rogue, players should start by selecting a race and background that will best benefit their chosen class. Notably, NPC rogue Astarion is a High Elf Charlatan, which is a solid background but less-than-ideal race.
Deep Gnomes And Lightfoot Halflings Are Masters Of Stealth
Two ofBaldur’s Gate 3’s races, the Deep Gnome and theLightfoot Halfling, provide natural enhancements to stealth that can greatly benefit a Rogue. Lightfoot Halflings have the ability Naturally Stealthy, which grants them advantage on Stealth checks. They’re also Lucky, allowing them to re-roll natural 1s. Deep Gnomes have a Superior Darkvision of up to 24 feet and also gain advantage on Stealth checks due to Stone Camouflage. All Gnomes also have advantage on Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws.
Duergar Gain Natural Invisibility
Another race with Superior Darkvision,Duergaralso have the benefit of gaining access to Invisibility at Level 5. This Invisibility can be cast without a spell slot, so Rogues can use it without needing to multi-class. Duergar also gain advantage in saving throws against illusions, Charm, and Paralysis.
Wood Elves Move Swiftly
Players who want to build a rogue that gets in and out as quickly as possible should consider theWood Elf. They gain an increase in movement speed as well as proficiency in Stealth, standard Darkvision, and proficiency in many ranged weapons that can help a Rogue stay away from danger.
A Stealthy Background Is Best
The followingBaldur’s Gate 3backgroundsare recommended for a Rogue because of their useful skill proficiencies.
Unwritten Rules For Rogues In Combat
ARogue inBG3should be mobile during battle, able to deliver attacks and then hide or disengage using a Cunning Action so that other, bulkier characters can bear the brunt of damage. For this reason, many Rogues are built using the Thief subclass, which grants an extra bonus action. This second bonus action can be used to run or hide or even do a little extra damage with an off-hand attack if the Rogue is dual wielding.
Rogue equipment tends to include anything that boosts dexterity or makes it easier for the Rogue to pull off sneak attacks. Some good options include:
Roleplaying As A Rogue
Rogues do not necessarily have to be evil schemers. A Rogue is someone who values discretion and always considers the profits to be made or the rewards to be earned in a situation. Rogues should also be unafraid to steal from merchants and civilians who have things they want, and willing to lie should they get caught in the act. A few specific Rogue-focused actions and decisions include:
Help Mol Against Raphael
A Rogue might have a lot of respect for the tiefling child Mol, a natural conwoman who runs various schemes and scams in the Emerald Grove and ultimately hopes to join the Thieves' Guild in Baldur’s Gate. In Act 2 of the game, Mol becomes involved withthe cambion Raphael, and can ultimately make a contract and sell her soul to him. A Rogue would likely want to help Mol by rigging the lanceboard game she plays against Raphael and later stealing her contract back from the House of Hope.
Get To Know The Thieves' Guild
Whether a Rogue is an independent agent or a loyal Thieves' Guild member, they likely want to ingratiate themselves with the local underworld. They can befriend Nine-Fingers Keene, the Underduke of Baldur’s Gate, by siding with the Thieves' Guild against the Zhentarim and ending the threat of rival kingpin “the Stone Lord” by rescuingMinsc. Rogues who earn Nine-Fingers' support as an ally should definitely call on her and her Lady’s Court during the final battle.
In general, a Rogue develops a mastery of all things stealthy and an interest in getting “a peek behind the city’s mask,” asJaheirasays of Astarion. They will be effective both in combat and out, and will be an invaluable part of anyBaldur’s Gate 3party due to their ability to acquire valuable items without spending huge amount of gold. A world filled with chaotic plots and secret organizations like Faerun is a perfect place for a Rogue to explore.
