Baldur’s Gate 3 is massive and complex, but these 15 tips will save you hours of frustration. After three complete playthroughs, here’s everything I wish someone told me before starting.
Quick Answer
- Save often: Quicksave (F5) before every conversation and fight
- Talk to everyone: NPCs have quests that aren’t marked
- Long rest freely: There’s no penalty for resting often
- Shove is OP: Push enemies off cliffs for instant kills
- Respec is cheap: You can rebuild characters anytime at camp
Combat Tips
1. Shove Enemies Off Things
Shove is a bonus action that costs nothing. Push enemies off cliffs, into chasms, or into hazards for instant kills regardless of HP. This trivializes many “hard” fights.
2. High Ground Matters
Attacking from elevation gives +2 to hit. Always position ranged characters on high ground before combat starts.
3. Concentrate Fire
Kill one enemy completely before spreading damage. A dead enemy deals zero damage; a wounded enemy deals full damage.
4. Use Consumables
Potions, scrolls, and grenades are abundant. Don’t hoard them for a “harder fight” — use them now.
5. Sneak Attack Positioning
Rogues get Sneak Attack when an ally is within 5ft of the target. Position your tank to enable consistent sneak attacks.
Exploration Tips
6. Talk to Everything
Animals (with Speak with Animals), corpses (with Speak with Dead), and random NPCs all have quests and lore. The game doesn’t mark most of this.
7. Check Perception Rolls
Your party auto-rolls Perception when near hidden objects. Watch for the dice roll in the corner — it means something’s hidden nearby.
8. Lockpick Everything
Locked chests have the best loot. Bring a character with Thieves Tools proficiency and decent Dexterity.
Character Building Tips
9. You Can Respec Anytime
Withers at your camp lets you completely rebuild any character for 100 gold. Experiment freely.
10. Multiclassing Is Powerful
Dipping 1-2 levels into another class can add huge value. Fighter 2 for Action Surge, Rogue 1 for Expertise, Warlock 2 for Eldritch Blast.
11. Don’t Neglect Constitution
Every class needs HP. A dead wizard deals zero damage. Aim for at least 14 CON on everyone.
Story/Choice Tips
12. Choices Have Real Consequences
NPCs can die permanently. Factions can become hostile. Save before big decisions if you care about outcomes.
13. Companions Have Personal Quests
Each companion has a storyline that can succeed or fail based on your choices. Talk to them regularly at camp.
14. Romance Is Optional But Deep
You can romance most companions. It takes time and right choices. Check approval ratings in the character sheet.
15. The “Evil” Path Is Fully Developed
Unlike most RPGs, being evil has unique content, companions, and endings. It’s not just “good path but meaner.”
FAQ
Q: What’s the best class for beginners?
A: Fighter or Paladin. Both are tanky, deal good damage, and have straightforward mechanics.
Q: Can I play solo?
A: Yes, but it’s designed for a 4-person party. You can hire mercenaries if you don’t want companions.
Q: How long is the game?
A: 80-120 hours for a thorough playthrough. Speedruns skip most content.
Summary
Save often, use Shove liberally, talk to everyone, and don’t stress about “perfect” builds — respec is cheap. BG3 rewards exploration and experimentation, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
