Baldur's Gate 3: A Whimsical Walkthrough for Warriors and Wizards

Ahoy, intrepid adventurer! So, you've decided to dive into the vast, vibrant, and occasionally vexing world of "Baldur's Gate 3". Fear not, for this guide is here to ensure you don't end up as dragon chow on your very first quest. Let's embark on this journey of dice, drama, and daring decisions!

1. Setting the Stage: Welcome to the Forgotten Realms, a land where magic is as common as tavern brawls and where dragons are just oversized lizards with a penchant for hoarding gold. In "Baldur's Gate 3", you start with a tadpole in your brain (rude, right?) and embark on a quest to avoid becoming a mind flayer's snack.

2. Crafting Your Legend:

• Races:

• Humans: As the most adaptable of races, humans have the unique ability to excel in any class or role. Their versatility is their strength.

• Elves & Half-Elves: Elves possess keen senses and a natural affinity for magic. Half-elves, meanwhile, enjoy the best of both their elven and human heritages.

• Dwarves: Their resilience and hardiness make them excellent fighters. Plus, their resistance to poison means they can enjoy their ale without much worry.

• Tieflings: Their infernal heritage grants them resistance to fire, and they have a natural knack for casting spells.

• Githyanki: With a history of conflict with mind flayers, they possess unique psionic abilities.

• Halflings: Their small size grants them agility, making them hard to hit in combat.

• Drow: These dark elves have superior darkvision and can cast spells innately.

• Classes (and Sub-Classes):

• Fighter:

• Champion: Focuses on improving physical abilities.

• Battle Master: Uses combat maneuvers to outwit foes.

• Eldritch Knight: Combines martial prowess with arcane magic.

• Wizard:

• School of Evocation: Masters of elemental magic.

• School of Abjuration: Specializes in protective spells.

• School of Conjuration: Summons creatures and objects.

• Rogue:

• Thief: Masters of stealth and agility.

• Assassin: Deadly killers who strike from the shadows.

• Arcane Trickster: Combines roguish skills with illusion magic.

• Ranger:

• Hunter: Excels in tracking and hunting foes.

• Beast Master: Forms a bond with a beast companion.

• Cleric:

• Life Domain: Focuses on healing and restoration.

• Light Domain: Harnesses the power of light and fire.

• War Domain: Combines martial skills with divine magic.

• Warlock:

• Archfey: Draws power from the realms of fairy.

• Fiend: Gains abilities from infernal beings.

• Great Old One: Connects with ancient, cosmic entities.

• Backgrounds:

• Acolyte: Their divine connection can grant them favors in religious communities.

• Charlatan: Possesses a "unique" set of skills, including forgery.

• Criminal: Has contacts in the underworld and can acquire illicit goods.

• Entertainer: Can always find a place to perform and earn a living.

• Guild Artisan: Recognized for their craft, they can find patrons easily.

• Hermit: Their isolation has granted them unique insights or discoveries.

• Noble: Has the respect of the elite and can exert influence.

• Sage: Their knowledge can be a treasure trove when seeking answers.

• Soldier: Has proficiency in handling weapons and can command respect from fellow soldiers.

3. 3. Navigating the Nuances:

• Exploration: Remember to interact with the environment. Objects can be moved, used, or even thrown. High ground offers advantages in combat, and hidden paths can lead to treasures.

• Combat: Use the "Help" action to assist allies. Remember, flanking enemies can grant you advantage. Use bonus actions wisely, and always be aware of attack of opportunity.

• Dialogue: Your choices matter. The game employs a dynamic system where your decisions can affect future interactions and outcomes.

4. Companions and Confidants: Building relationships is key. Each companion has their own questline, and aiding them can unlock unique abilities and gear. But be wary, as disagreements can lead to conflicts or even duels.

5. Gear, Gold, and Gobbledygook:

• Weapons & Armor: Different classes have different proficiencies. Ensure you equip gear that maximizes your abilities. For instance, rogues benefit from light armor, allowing them to move stealthily.

• Potions & Scrolls: Always keep a diverse set. Potions of healing are a must, and scrolls can offer spells that might be outside your usual repertoire.

6. Mysteries of Magic: There are different schools of magic, each with its strengths. Abjuration focuses on protection, while Evocation is all about dealing damage. Understand the components required for spells—some need verbal, somatic, or material components to cast.

• Save, Save, Save: The three golden rules of any RPG. Save your game. Often.

• Experiment: Try different approaches, take risks, and learn from mistakes.

• Engage: Talk to NPCs, pet the dog, read the lore. Immerse yourself.

In conclusion, "Baldur's Gate 3" is a tapestry of tales, waiting for you to weave your own story into it. Whether you aspire to be a hero, a villain, or just that person who "accidentally" sets things on fire, the realms are your oyster. Dive in, drink deep of the adventure, and remember: it's not about the destination, but the journey... and the number of dragons you befriend along the way. Happy adventuring!