Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 Subclasses has introduced a host of exciting changes to Larian Studios’ expansive RPG, revitalizing gameplay with fresh options like pirates, cursed warlocks, unique archers, and shadowy companions. Players can explore these new subclasses either as standalone characters or combine them with existing classes for greater versatility.
Each subclass offers distinct advantages, even though some might impose certain limitations. Experimentation is encouraged, as each subclass provides unique mechanics worth exploring. Below, we present our comprehensive ranking of these new subclasses from best to least effective, synthesized into tiers similar to our BG3 class tier list.
Subclass Ranking Overview
- S-tier: Death Domain Cleric, College of Glamour Bard, Bladesinging Wizard, Hexblade Warlock
- A-tier: Giant Barbarian, Oath of the Crown Paladin, Circle of Stars Druid, Swashbuckler Rogue
- B-tier: Arcane Archer Fighter, Swarmkeeper Ranger, Shadow Magic Sorcerer, Way of the Drunken Master Monk
1. Death Domain Cleric
The Death Domain Cleric excels as a formidable alternative to the Necromancer Wizard, particularly in the early game. This subclass features a passive ability that allows single-target cantrips to strike an additional enemy, significantly increasing their utility. Among its starting cantrips, False Life offers extra HP to allies, while Bone Chill inflicts a debilitating status effect, inhibiting enemy healing throughout the game.
At level six, the cleric gains the Inescapable Destruction passive, rendering their necrotic attacks effective against foes resistant to such damage—an invaluable trait in later game acts. Furthermore, a formidable Channel Divinity ability adds substantial necrotic damage to successful melee attacks, placing the Death Domain Cleric among the most versatile and impactful classes in the game.
2. College of Glamour Bard
The College of Glamour Bard has faced criticism for not offering damage-dealing capabilities akin to the College of Swords Bard, but its true strength lies in its support skills. At level three, the Mantle of Inspiration ability bestows temporary hit points to allies, with the added perk of charming attackers who strike those beneficiaries.
Later, Mantle of Majesty empowers the Bard with battlefield control by allowing them to command enemies effectively, making them a valuable asset in tactical engagements. While commitment to this subclass is essential for maximizing its potential, the inherent versatility of the Bard class allows for effective hybrid builds, including multiclass options to enhance offensive capabilities via Warlock spells.
3. Bladesinging Wizard
Initially perceived as a niche concept, the Bladesinging Wizard breaks the mold of typical spellcasters. Featuring the unique Bladesong ability, this subclass grants defensive bonuses, enhanced mobility, and damage reduction options, closely aligning it with melee prowess. The skills acquired at second level complement a comprehensive spell list, expanding tactical options beyond those of the traditional Eldritch Knight.
Adding to their toolkit in Patch 8 is the Shadow Blade spell, which damages foes with psychic energy, enhancing their combat versatility significantly. While navigating the challenges of demanding spell slots is necessary, the dual capabilities of wielding weapons and casting spells effectively create a well-rounded option for players.
4. Hexblade Warlock
The Hexblade Warlock stands out as a balanced and functional option, combining offensive spells and debuffs with unique features. Their ability to bond a weapon ensures that attacks can inflict the Hexblade’s Curse, providing significant damage increases and crit advantages against enemies.
Additionally, the Hexblade benefits from potent smite abilities, elemental weapon options, and defensive spells like Blink, enabling them to shine in both offensive and defensive scenarios. As a self-reliant class, Hexblade Warlocks excel at dealing with various threats effectively, marking them as a formidable choice among Warlocks.
5. Giant Barbarian
Focusing on the traditional role of a powerhouse, the Giant Barbarian brings hefty doses of fun while introducing elemental damage capabilities and throwing mechanics. The Elemental Cleaver ability at level six adds an extra layer of strategy by allowing attacks to deal elemental damage and capitalize on the Giant Rage bonus.
This subclass simplifies offensive gameplay with a unique approach—kicking enemies off cliffs!—making it a memorable and entertaining class for physical combat enthusiasts.
6. Oath of the Crown Paladin
As a supportive class, the Oath of the Crown Paladin emphasizes tanking capabilities with utility. Their signature Channel Oath ability enhances allies’ attack rolls, while Turn the Tide provides rare area-of-effect healing, aiding allies within range—an invaluable advantage in tough encounters.
At level nine, further support is provided through Divine Allegiance, fostering a sense of protection, while Spirit Guardians significantly bolster their capabilities. While not the primary damage dealer, their strength lies in support functionalities and effective tanking, making them an essential team player.
7. Circle of Stars Druid
Functioning as a hybrid class, the Circle of Stars Druid offers a versatile mix of healing and damage abilities. Instead of standard shapeshifting, they summon constellations for different effects—providing healing, radiant damage, or enhancing allies’ capabilities through Cosmic Omen.
While somewhat overshadowed by other subclasses initially, their potential significantly grows by level ten, allowing for enhanced tactical flexibility and fulfilling support roles effectively.
8. Swashbuckler Rogue
The Swashbuckler Rogue presents an engaging option for players who enjoy flamboyant combat styles, despite experiencing some limitations in progression. Early-level abilities provide significant advantages in engagements, including dodging attacks and gaining initiative bonuses. While the subclass does have gaps without new skills, its tactical abilities remain effective for debuffing foes.
Thanks to the early capabilities, it synergizes well with other dexterous classes and enhances overall combat fluidity.
9. Arcane Archer Fighter
Despite its conceptual appeal, the Arcane Archer Fighter often falls short when conventional archery tactics suffice. While it offers unique arrow options, including elemental damage types, its efficacy is limited by the constraints placed on arrow availability since BG3 lacks a crafting system. As a result, players may find themselves constantly managing limited resources.
Ultimately, this subclass might feel less effective at higher levels due to the static damage output as leveling progresses. A thorough analysis can lead to identifying when to pivot to other classes for better returns.
10. Swarmkeeper Ranger
The Swarmkeeper Ranger introduces an intriguing mix of nature-themed mechanic choices with their different swarm options. However, only one type—moths—proves effective throughout the game, making selection seem limiting. While swarming abilities grant some area control and enhanced damage against marked foes, the rigid nature of swarm selection curtails flexibility compared to other Ranger subclasses.
Though they provide debuffs with potential movement suppression, it generally benefits players more to explore multiclass options for increased effectiveness in combat.
11. Shadow Magic Sorcerer
The Shadow Magic Sorcerer embodies a compelling thematic choice, yet its inherent abilities often fall short of practical relevance. Though seeing in darkness, using sorcery points for spells, and evading fatal damage might seem enticing, many of its skills lack impactful application in various gaming scenarios.
The highlight of this subclass lies in the Hound of Ill Omen feature, which provides additional tactical options, albeit suggesting reliance on a broader multiclass approach to maximize advantages in challenging circumstances.
12. Way of the Drunken Master Monk
While entertaining to play, the Way of the Drunken Master Monk presents unique challenges with its mechanics, with the concept of drunken attacks proving restrictive. Restoring Ki points requires long rests rather than frequent taverns, which limits sustainability during encounters.
This subclass centers around Flurry of Blows while emphasizing agility and mobility, but elements like Sobering Realization and passive defenses may hinder overall effectiveness against various foes. Players might find short bursts of functionality, while broader utility requires supplementing with other class levels for maximized potential.
For an optimal gameplay experience, consider a hybrid approach, investing in other classes for expanded versatility and better-rounded capabilities.
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