What is the best multiclass option for a Rogue in Baldur's Gate 3?

Multiclassing a Rogue in Baldur's Gate 3 can significantly enhance your character's versatility and effectiveness, but it requires careful planning to ensure you maximize the benefits while minimizing weaknesses. One of the best multiclass options for a Rogue is combining it with the Fighter class. This combination leverages the Rogue's sneak attack and stealth capabilities with the Fighter's combat prowess and durability, creating a highly effective hybrid character.

To start, let's break down the mechanics involved. Rogues excel in dealing high burst damage through sneak attacks, which require advantage on the attack roll or having an ally within 5 feet of the target. They also have access to Cunning Action, which allows them to Dash, Disengage, or Hide as a bonus action, making them highly mobile and evasive. Fighters, on the other hand, are versatile combatants with access to multiple attacks, Action Surge for an extra action, and a Fighting Style that can enhance their combat effectiveness. Combining these two classes allows you to deal significant damage while maintaining high survivability.

When multiclassing, the first step is to decide how many levels to invest in each class. A common approach is to take 3 levels in Rogue to gain access to the Assassin subclass, which provides automatic critical hits on surprised enemies and advantage on attacks against creatures that haven't taken a turn yet. This pairs exceptionally well with the Fighter's Action Surge, allowing you to unleash a devastating burst of damage in the first round of combat. After taking 3 levels in Rogue, you can then invest the remaining levels in Fighter to gain additional attacks, improved combat abilities, and increased durability.

One important tip is to prioritize Dexterity as your primary ability score, as it affects both your attack rolls and damage with finesse weapons, as well as your Armor Class and stealth capabilities. Constitution should be your secondary focus to increase your hit points and survivability. Strength can be a dump stat unless you plan to use heavy armor, but keep in mind that heavy armor can negate some of the Rogue's stealth advantages.

A common mistake to avoid is neglecting your Rogue's sneak attack mechanics. Always ensure you have advantage on your attack rolls or an ally within 5 feet of your target to trigger sneak attack damage. Additionally, be mindful of your positioning in combat to avoid being surrounded by enemies, as Rogues are relatively squishy compared to Fighters.

Advanced techniques include using the Fighter's Action Surge in combination with the Rogue's Assassin abilities to maximize damage output in the first round of combat. For example, you can use Action Surge to make multiple attacks, each potentially triggering sneak attack damage if the conditions are met. Another optimization is to choose the Two-Weapon Fighting style as a Fighter, allowing you to make an additional attack with your off-hand weapon, further increasing your damage potential.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, multiclassing requires meeting the ability score prerequisites for both classes. For a Rogue/Fighter multiclass, you need at least 13 Dexterity and 13 Strength. However, since Dexterity is your primary stat, you can easily meet these requirements. Additionally, remember that multiclassing can delay access to higher-level abilities, so plan your progression carefully to ensure you don't miss out on key features.

Specific examples and scenarios include using your Rogue's stealth to position yourself advantageously before combat begins, then using the Fighter's Action Surge and multiple attacks to take down high-priority targets quickly. In a dungeon setting, you can scout ahead using your Rogue's stealth and trap detection abilities, then switch to your Fighter's combat prowess when enemies are encountered.

In conclusion, multiclassing a Rogue with a Fighter in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a highly effective and versatile character. By carefully planning your ability scores, class progression, and combat tactics, you can maximize your damage output and survivability. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting sneak attack mechanics and poor positioning, and utilize advanced techniques such as combining Action Surge with Assassin abilities for devastating burst damage. With the right strategy, your Rogue/Fighter multiclass will be a formidable force in any encounter.