What is the best multiclass combination for a Monk in Baldur's Gate 3?
The Monk class in Baldur's Gate 3 is a highly versatile and mobile martial class that excels in unarmed combat, agility, and ki-based abilities. Multiclassing a Monk can enhance their strengths or compensate for their weaknesses, depending on your playstyle. One of the best multiclass combinations for a Monk is with the Rogue class, specifically the Thief subclass. This combination leverages the Monk's speed and unarmed strikes with the Rogue's sneak attack and bonus actions, creating a highly effective and dynamic character.
To start, let's break down the mechanics involved. Monks rely on Dexterity and Wisdom for their AC, attack rolls, and saving throws. Their ki points allow them to perform special abilities like Flurry of Blows, Patient Defense, and Step of the Wind. Rogues, on the other hand, gain Sneak Attack, which deals extra damage when attacking with advantage or when an ally is adjacent to the target. The Thief subclass grants an additional bonus action, which synergizes perfectly with the Monk's ability to make multiple attacks in a single turn.
To build a Monk/Rogue multiclass, you should start as a Monk for the first six levels. This ensures you gain access to key Monk features like Extra Attack, Stunning Strike, and your subclass abilities. At level 7, you can begin taking levels in Rogue. The Thief subclass is particularly beneficial because it grants an extra bonus action at level 3, allowing you to use Flurry of Blows twice in a single turn or combine it with other Monk abilities.
When allocating ability scores, prioritize Dexterity for attack rolls, AC, and initiative. Wisdom is also important for Monk abilities and AC, so aim for at least 16 in both Dexterity and Wisdom. Constitution should be your third priority to increase your survivability. Intelligence, Charisma, and Strength can be lower, depending on your roleplay preferences.
In combat, the Monk/Rogue multiclass excels at hit-and-run tactics. Use your high mobility to position yourself for Sneak Attack, then use Flurry of Blows to deal additional damage. The Thief's extra bonus action allows you to disengage or dash after attacking, keeping you out of harm's way. Stunning Strike can be used to set up advantage for Sneak Attack, making it a powerful combo.
One common mistake to avoid is neglecting your Monk levels. While the Rogue's Sneak Attack is tempting, delaying your Monk progression can weaken your core abilities. It's generally best to reach Monk level 6 before multiclassing to ensure you have Extra Attack and Stunning Strike. Another mistake is overusing ki points. While Flurry of Blows is powerful, it consumes ki points quickly. Balance your ki usage with regular attacks and Rogue abilities to maintain effectiveness throughout longer encounters.
Advanced techniques for this build include using items that enhance your mobility or damage. Boots of Speed, for example, can increase your movement speed, allowing you to close gaps or escape danger more easily. Weapons like the Shortsword or Dagger can be used for Sneak Attack, but remember that Monk weapons must be simple and lack the two-handed or heavy property to benefit from Martial Arts.
In terms of D&D 5E rules, the Monk/Rogue multiclass is a legal combination, but it requires careful planning. Multiclassing into Rogue requires a Dexterity score of 13, which should already be high for a Monk. The Thief's Fast Hands feature allows you to use items like potions or caltrops as a bonus action, adding utility to your combat repertoire.
Specific examples of this build in action include scenarios where you need to take down a high-priority target quickly. Use your mobility to reach the target, apply Stunning Strike to incapacitate them, then follow up with Sneak Attack and Flurry of Blows for massive damage. In exploration, your high Dexterity and Rogue skills like Stealth and Sleight of Hand make you an excellent scout and trap disarmer.
In summary, the Monk/Rogue multiclass is a powerful and versatile build that combines the Monk's martial prowess with the Rogue's cunning and sneakiness. By focusing on Dexterity and Wisdom, prioritizing Monk levels early, and leveraging the Thief's extra bonus action, you can create a character that excels in both combat and exploration. Avoid common pitfalls like overusing ki points and neglecting core Monk abilities, and use advanced techniques and items to maximize your effectiveness. This build is a proven strategy for players looking to create a dynamic and highly mobile character in Baldur's Gate 3.
To start, let's break down the mechanics involved. Monks rely on Dexterity and Wisdom for their AC, attack rolls, and saving throws. Their ki points allow them to perform special abilities like Flurry of Blows, Patient Defense, and Step of the Wind. Rogues, on the other hand, gain Sneak Attack, which deals extra damage when attacking with advantage or when an ally is adjacent to the target. The Thief subclass grants an additional bonus action, which synergizes perfectly with the Monk's ability to make multiple attacks in a single turn.
To build a Monk/Rogue multiclass, you should start as a Monk for the first six levels. This ensures you gain access to key Monk features like Extra Attack, Stunning Strike, and your subclass abilities. At level 7, you can begin taking levels in Rogue. The Thief subclass is particularly beneficial because it grants an extra bonus action at level 3, allowing you to use Flurry of Blows twice in a single turn or combine it with other Monk abilities.
When allocating ability scores, prioritize Dexterity for attack rolls, AC, and initiative. Wisdom is also important for Monk abilities and AC, so aim for at least 16 in both Dexterity and Wisdom. Constitution should be your third priority to increase your survivability. Intelligence, Charisma, and Strength can be lower, depending on your roleplay preferences.
In combat, the Monk/Rogue multiclass excels at hit-and-run tactics. Use your high mobility to position yourself for Sneak Attack, then use Flurry of Blows to deal additional damage. The Thief's extra bonus action allows you to disengage or dash after attacking, keeping you out of harm's way. Stunning Strike can be used to set up advantage for Sneak Attack, making it a powerful combo.
One common mistake to avoid is neglecting your Monk levels. While the Rogue's Sneak Attack is tempting, delaying your Monk progression can weaken your core abilities. It's generally best to reach Monk level 6 before multiclassing to ensure you have Extra Attack and Stunning Strike. Another mistake is overusing ki points. While Flurry of Blows is powerful, it consumes ki points quickly. Balance your ki usage with regular attacks and Rogue abilities to maintain effectiveness throughout longer encounters.
Advanced techniques for this build include using items that enhance your mobility or damage. Boots of Speed, for example, can increase your movement speed, allowing you to close gaps or escape danger more easily. Weapons like the Shortsword or Dagger can be used for Sneak Attack, but remember that Monk weapons must be simple and lack the two-handed or heavy property to benefit from Martial Arts.
In terms of D&D 5E rules, the Monk/Rogue multiclass is a legal combination, but it requires careful planning. Multiclassing into Rogue requires a Dexterity score of 13, which should already be high for a Monk. The Thief's Fast Hands feature allows you to use items like potions or caltrops as a bonus action, adding utility to your combat repertoire.
Specific examples of this build in action include scenarios where you need to take down a high-priority target quickly. Use your mobility to reach the target, apply Stunning Strike to incapacitate them, then follow up with Sneak Attack and Flurry of Blows for massive damage. In exploration, your high Dexterity and Rogue skills like Stealth and Sleight of Hand make you an excellent scout and trap disarmer.
In summary, the Monk/Rogue multiclass is a powerful and versatile build that combines the Monk's martial prowess with the Rogue's cunning and sneakiness. By focusing on Dexterity and Wisdom, prioritizing Monk levels early, and leveraging the Thief's extra bonus action, you can create a character that excels in both combat and exploration. Avoid common pitfalls like overusing ki points and neglecting core Monk abilities, and use advanced techniques and items to maximize your effectiveness. This build is a proven strategy for players looking to create a dynamic and highly mobile character in Baldur's Gate 3.