Baldur's Gate 3: Monk guide BG3 Baldurs Gate 3 guide, walkthrough

When choosing a Monk class in BG3, be sure to choose the right race and assign ability points. Our guide describes the best subclass and the best build.

Last update: 18 July 2023

Monk is one of the 12 classes in BG3. Keep reading if you want to find out what origin and race is best for a Monk. We explain how to distribute ability points and which class actions and spells will be useful in combat. We discuss the Monk's passive feats, fighting style and subraces.

• Best origin for a Monk
• Best race for a Monk
• Ability points
• Best spells and class actions for a Monk
• Best Monk subclass
• Best combat style for Monk
• Best Monk build

Best origin for a Monk

When choosing origins for the Monk in BG3, make sure to choose proficiencies in skills appropriate for this class, namely those based on Wisdom and Dexterity. The best origins for the Monk class are:

1. Acolyte possessing proficiency in religion and intuition.
2. Folk Hero whose specialization is animal care and survival.
3. Urchin possessing sleight of hand and perception.

Best race for a Monk

In BG3, you will find several races with a Dexterity bonus like:

1. Wood Elf with bonus +2 Dexterity and +1 Wisdom.
2. Halfling with bonus +2 Dexterity and +1 to Charisma or Constitution, depending on the subrace.
3. Human who has +1 to all abilities.

Ability points

1. The most crucial ability of this class is Dexterity. An agile Monk has a higher chance of inflicting damage and avoiding being hit by the enemy.
2. You need to put more points Wisdom to cast spells and read the intentions of encountered creatures. Wisdom is also useful in medicine, perception, and dealing with animals.
3. The Monk's Strength and Constitution should not be less than 11. A high level of Strength will be useful for defensive throws. Constitution modifier is added to the armor class when the character is not wearing armor.

Best spells and class actions for a Monk

1. Step of the Wind is a class action that you can use both in combat and during exploration. Double your jump range.
2. Flurry of Blows is a Monk's bonus action during which you attack twice with bare hands.
3. Patient Defense is a bonus action thanks to which you can dodge during your turn.

Best Monk subclass

Monk in BG3 can have 1 of 3 subclasses below:

1. Way of the Four Elements - Monk uses Ki points to cast spells or invoke elemental effects. You can deal up to 3 unarmed attacks and can create a water whip that either pulls a creature to you or knocks it down.
2. Way of the Long Death - provides temporary hit points after defeating enemies and can terrify nearby opponents. This Monk can spend their Ki points and cheat death or transfer necrotic damage through touch.
3. Way of the Shadow - This Monk subclass focuses on stealth and deception. It grants spells that conceal the caster and teleport him between shadows. They can cast invisibility on themselves and use the opponent's distraction to perform additional attacks.

Best combat style for Monk

Monks have proficiency in using a shortsword and any other simple weapon. They will perform perfectly without wearing armor.

Best Monk build

1. Race: Wood Elf
2. Subclass: Way of the Four Elements
3. Origin: Acolyte
4. Abilities: Dexterity and Wisdom 16, Strength and Constitution 11/12, Charisma and Intelligence around 8
5. Weapon: Shortsword of First Blood
6. Armor: None