Exploring Dragonborn Variants in Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3 offers players an intriguing selection of 11 playable races, each shaping the initial reactions of non-playable characters (NPCs). These races not only enrich the gameplay experience but also come with unique racial bonuses that enhance player abilities. Rooted in the iconic Dungeons & Dragons Player’s Handbook, Baldur’s Gate 3 provides greater freedom for players in terms of character customization, particularly in terms of statistics.

Among the intriguing race options is the dragonborn, which presents a striking humanoid appearance reminiscent of dragons. This distinctive feature sets them apart from the other ten races available. But who exactly are the dragonborn in the universe of Baldur’s Gate 3?

Understanding the Variations Among Dragonborn Colors

Dragonborn Abilities Rooted in Color

Contrary to many other races, dragonborn do not share a set of universal racial bonuses; instead, their attributes are derived from one of the ten distinct subraces. Each subrace offers specific resistances and a unique breath attack that inflicts damage based on their elemental affinity. These affinities correlate with different colors, yet players have the flexibility to choose different colors during customization, allowing for richer character development.

Subrace	Resistance	Dragonborn Breath Ability (Level 1)
Black Dragonborn	Acid Damage	Acid Breath – 2d6 Acid Damage
Blue Dragonborn	Lightning Damage	Lightning Breath – 2d6 Lightning Damage
Brass Dragonborn	Fire Damage	Fire Breath – 2d6 Fire Damage (Line/Column)
Bronze Dragonborn	Lightning Damage	Lightning Breath – 2d6 Lightning Damage
Copper Dragonborn	Acid Damage	Acid Breath – 2d6 Acid Damage
Gold Dragonborn	Fire Damage	Fire Breath – 2d6 Fire Damage (Cone)
Green Dragonborn	Poison Damage	Poison Breath – 2d6 Poison Damage
Red Dragonborn	Fire Damage	Fire Breath – 2d6 Fire Damage (Cone)
Silver Dragonborn	Cold Damage	Frost Breath – 2d6 Cold Damage
White Dragonborn	Cold Damage	Frost Breath – 2d6 Cold Damage

The damage output of the dragonborn’s breath weapon scales over time, increasing to 3d6 at level 6 and 4d6 at level 11. Attacks based on Acid, Lightning, and Fire damage require targets to make Dexterity saving throws, while those that deal Cold and Poison damage necessitate Constitution saves. While resistance to these types of damage isn’t absolute—merely halving the impact—being resistant can certainly aid in surviving traps. Notably, Fire damage is prevalent throughout Baldur’s Gate 3, although many foes possess immunity or resistance to it, making strategy essential.

Furthermore, dragonborn appear to have far-reaching customization options compared to other races. Players can amalgamate scale colors if they opt for becoming a Draconic bloodline sorcerer, contributing to a unique aesthetic that diverges significantly from typical humanoid appearances. In the absence of hair, dragonborn can leverage the game’s “Crests” feature to modify head appearances. Also, players can give their dragonborn character tails, a rarity in traditional Dungeons & Dragons gameplay.

Exploring Dragonborn Lore in Baldur’s Gate 3

Dragonborn: Lore Inside and Outside Faerûn

As highlighted in the subrace descriptions, dragonborn do not share a direct lineage with dragons, unlike tieflings and their fiendish counterparts. They were fashioned to emulate dragons by deities or powerful dragon beings. Interestingly, dragonborn have a complicated relationship with their draconic progenitors, often harboring animosity towards them due to a history of enslavement. This past has shaped their emphasis on freedom and individuality.

In terms of alignments, while each dragon species in Dungeons & Dragons typically adheres to certain ethical and moral standards based on their type, a dragonborn’s color does not dictate their personality traits.

Previously, dragonborn were absent from earlier Baldur’s Gate iterations; their introduction occurred in the timeline between the second and third installments. They originate from the planet Abeir, which is connected to Toril, the realm that encompasses Faerûn and the city of Baldur’s Gate. Despite their popularity in Dungeons & Dragons lore, dragonborn in Baldur’s Gate 3 seem less prioritized. The game’s mechanics allow stat bonuses to be allocated independently of race, slightly diminishing the dragonborn’s inherent advantages.

From gnome druids to dragonborn barbarians, here are your top 3 character classes per race! pic.twitter.com/TpVBAvEql2 — Baldur’s Gate 3 (@baldursgate3) August 7, 2024

In Baldur’s Gate 3, dragonborn are relatively rare, with few notable characters. The most recognizable is likely the default Dark Urge origin character. Statistics released during the one-year anniversary of the game indicated that sorcerers were the most popular class choice among players opting for dragonborn characters. This trend may stem from the default selection being sorcerers or the distinctive visual flair associated with the draconic bloodline subclass. Despite their rich potential for diversity and customization in Baldur’s Gate 3, dragonborn often remain underappreciated.

Source: Baldur’s Gate 3/X

Source & Images