Saying that Baldur’s Gate 3 is massive would be an understatement. It launches on August 3rd for PC and September 6th for PS5 and is touted as having over 170 hours of cinematics and is roughly four times the size of Divinity: Original Sin 2. While Larian Studios discussed the various races and subraces available at launch, it also outlined all the classes and sub-classes while revealing a new Companion.
First, each class from early access is getting “at least” one new sub-class for a total of 46 (so “nearly half” will be new). There are 12 total classes, including the newly revealed Monk. As a cross between the Fighter and Rogue, they can cross distances quickly using Step of Wind and attack Ki-infused melee strikes.
While receiving an AC of 10+ to Dexterity and Wisdom modifiers at level 1, they don’t use heavy or two-handed weapons. Monks rely on clubs and quarterstaves or their fists (with a bonus unarmed attack available after a punch or weapons trike). Larian describes the “animation, VFX and SFX” for the class as being “on a whole other level. We’ve pulled inspiration from the rulebook to create a stunning audio-visual experience which lives up to Kung-Fu cinema classics.”
Their sub-classes include Monks of the Open Hand for close combat with Psychic, Necrotic or Radiant damage. They can use Ki Resonating Blast at higher levels, which punches Ki into opponents and triggers an explosion for other Ki-afflicted targets. Alternatively, you can become a Shadow, a ninja that can enter the shadows to strike from stealth, or a Four Elements caster who uses spells.
The Monk’s attack damage with weapons and fists scales based on their level and can use Deflect Missiles to knock away any thrown items or weapons (even sending them back, thanks to a new Interrupt mechanic). All in all, they present another compelling option for players to use when the RPG exits early access in August. Stay tuned for more details, especially with a new Panel From Hell taking place on July 7th.
