What is the best multiclass combination for a Ranger in Baldur's Gate 3?

Multiclassing a Ranger in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a highly versatile and powerful character, capable of excelling in both ranged and melee combat, while also offering utility and survivability. One of the best multiclass combinations for a Ranger is with the Rogue class. This combination leverages the Ranger's strengths in tracking, survival, and ranged combat, while the Rogue adds sneak attack damage, stealth, and cunning actions. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of how to achieve this build, along with tips and considerations.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Rangers are known for their martial prowess, particularly with ranged weapons, and their ability to track and survive in the wilderness. They gain access to spells like HunterÔÇÖs Mark, which increases damage output, and abilities like Favored Enemy and Natural Explorer, which provide situational bonuses. Rogues, on the other hand, excel in stealth, sneak attacks, and mobility. Their Sneak Attack feature allows them to deal extra damage when they have advantage on an attack roll or when an ally is within 5 feet of the target. Combining these two classes allows you to deal significant damage while remaining highly mobile and versatile.

To start this multiclass build, you should begin as a Ranger. This gives you access to better weapon and armor proficiencies early on. At level 1, choose the Archery fighting style to boost your ranged attacks. At level 2, you gain access to spells like HunterÔÇÖs Mark, which is essential for increasing your damage output. At level 3, choose the Hunter subclass for abilities like Colossus Slayer, which adds extra damage to wounded enemies. Alternatively, the Gloom Stalker subclass offers increased stealth and initiative bonuses, which synergize well with Rogue abilities.

After reaching level 5 as a Ranger, you should multiclass into Rogue. This is because level 5 grants you Extra Attack, allowing you to make two attacks per turn, which is crucial for maximizing your damage output. When you multiclass into Rogue, you gain Sneak Attack, which adds extra damage to your attacks under certain conditions. At Rogue level 2, you gain Cunning Action, which allows you to Dash, Disengage, or Hide as a bonus action, greatly enhancing your mobility and survivability. At Rogue level 3, choose the Thief subclass for an additional bonus action, or the Assassin subclass for increased damage in the first round of combat.

When building your character, prioritize Dexterity as your primary ability score, as it affects both your attack rolls and armor class. Wisdom is also important for your Ranger spells and abilities. Constitution should be your third priority to increase your hit points and survivability. For race, consider choosing Wood Elf for their Dexterity and Wisdom bonuses, as well as their increased movement speed and stealth proficiency.

In combat, use your Ranger abilities to deal consistent damage from range, while leveraging your Rogue abilities to reposition and avoid enemy attacks. Use HunterÔÇÖs Mark to increase your damage output, and take advantage of Sneak Attack whenever possible. Use Cunning Action to stay mobile and avoid being targeted by enemies. If you chose the Thief subclass, you can use your additional bonus action to attack with an off-hand weapon or to reposition yourself.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting your Dexterity score, as it is crucial for both your attack rolls and armor class. Also, avoid multiclassing too early, as you want to ensure you have access to key abilities like Extra Attack before branching into another class. Additionally, be mindful of your positioning in combat to maximize your Sneak Attack damage.

Advanced techniques include using your stealth abilities to set up ambushes and gain advantage on your attacks. You can also use your mobility to flank enemies and gain Sneak Attack without needing advantage. Consider using feats like Sharpshooter to increase your ranged damage output, or Alert to improve your initiative and ensure you act first in combat.

In terms of D&D rules, multiclassing requires careful planning to ensure you meet the ability score prerequisites for both classes. For Ranger and Rogue, you need a Dexterity score of 13 and a Wisdom score of 13. Additionally, multiclassing affects your spellcasting progression, so be aware that your spell slots will be limited compared to a single-classed Ranger.

In specific scenarios, this multiclass build excels in both open combat and stealth-based encounters. For example, in a dungeon setting, you can use your stealth abilities to scout ahead and set up ambushes, while in open combat, you can use your ranged attacks and mobility to stay out of harmÔÇÖs way while dealing consistent damage.

Overall, the Ranger/Rogue multiclass is a highly effective and versatile build that combines the strengths of both classes to create a character capable of excelling in a variety of situations. By carefully planning your ability scores, subclass choices, and combat tactics, you can create a character that is both powerful and fun to play.