Best Monk build in Baldur's Gate 3

Monks epitomize one of Baldur’s Gate 3’s most adaptable classes so here is our suggestion for the best Monk build. Their potential spans an array of playstyles, encompassing damage dealing, crowd control, and stealth. However, the multitude of possibilities can make it challenging to navigate where to commence.

Within these pages, we delve into crafting the optimal monk build within BG3. Our exploration extends to the paramount statistics for Monks, the premier subclasses, and the most formidable Ki abilities. Moreover, we furnish strategies to wield your Monk adeptly in combat.

As you journey through this article, you’ll amass the knowledge needed to forge the ultimate monk build in BG3. Irrespective of your expertise level, whether a novice or an accomplished player, read on to glean invaluable insights that will undoubtedly enhance your Monk experience.

The Basics of the Best Build for Monk

Monks are one of the three classes in Baldur’s Gate 3 that focus on melee combat. They are unique in that they can fight unarmed, and they have a number of abilities that allow them to move quickly and evade attacks.

Monks gain Ki points, which they can use to fuel their abilities. These abilities include:

Martial Arts: Monks can make two unarmed attacks as a bonus action.
Deflect Missiles: Monks can use their Ki to deflect incoming ranged attacks.
Evasion: Monks can take no damage from area effects if they make a successful Dexterity saving throw.

Race: Drow
Subclass: Way of the Shadows
Background: Outlander
Skills: Acrobatics, Athletics
Weapons: Quarterstaff
Ability focus:

Below we will explain in more detail about these choices for the best monk build.

Subclass – Way of the Shadows

Monks also have a number of subclasses, each with its own unique abilities. The Way of Shadow is in our opinion the best monk subclass that is focused on stealth and subterfuge. Shadow Monks can cast the Minor Illusion cantrip, as well as Shadow Arts, which allows them to cast Pass Without Trace, Darkness, Darkvision, Silence, and Hide as bonus actions. They can also become invisible at will.

Opting for the Way of Shadow Monk proves to be an excellent decision for those seeking to embody a character brimming with stealth and agility. Moreover, individuals who prioritize crowd control in their gameplay will find this path equally appealing. With their skill set, they possess the capability to impede adversaries and enhance their vulnerability, ultimately paving the way for more manageable victories.

Race – Drow

Our choice for the best monk race is the Drow. Possessing versatility, the Drow race stands as a commendable option for Monk builds of various kinds. Their racial attributes are tailored to amplify stealth, encompassing advantages in resisting charm effects and the aptitude to perceive darkness. A distinctive advantage lies in their access to the Drow Cantrip Darkness, a spell that seamlessly aligns with the skill set of Shadow Monks.

Background – Outlander

Monks rely on Dexterity and Wisdom for the majority of their abilities. When choosing proficiencies and background, it is important to choose options that will boost these stats. The Criminal background gives proficiency in Stealth and Deception, which are both useful for Monks. The Outlander background gives proficiency in Athletics and Survival, which can be helpful for exploration.

With the Outlander archetype, Monks heavily depend on Dexterity and Wisdom to fuel their array of skills. When delving into the realm of proficiencies and backgrounds, the key lies in selecting options that bolster these attributes. Opting for the Criminal background imparts expertise in Stealth and Deception, both of which align seamlessly with a Monk’s skill set. Conversely, the Outlander background extends proficiencies in Athletics and Survival, enhancing the Monk’s prowess in matters of exploration.

Skills

Acrobatics: This skill is essential for Monks, as it allows them to move quickly and nimbly around the battlefield. It is also useful for escaping grapples and avoiding attacks.
Athletics: This skill is also important for Monks, as it allows them to jump higher, climb walls, and grapple enemies.
Deception: This skill can be useful for Monks who want to use stealth and deception to their advantage.
History: This skill can be helpful for Monks who want to learn more about the world and its history.
Insight: This skill can be helpful for Monks who want to understand their enemies and allies.
Perception: This skill is essential for Monks, as it allows them to spot traps and enemies before they become a threat.
Stealth: This skill is essential for Monks who want to use stealth checks to their advantage.
Survival: This skill can be helpful for Monks who are exploring the wilderness.

It is also important to choose skills that complement your Monk’s subclass. For example, if you are playing a Way of the Shadow Monk, you may want to focus on skills like Stealth and Deception. If you are playing a Way of the Open Hand Monk, you may want to focus on skills like Athletics and Intimidation.

Monks are a versatile class in Baldur’s Gate 3, with a variety of abilities that can be used in combat and out of combat. Some of the best abilities that monks have include:

Unarmored Defense: Monks’ AC is equal to 10 + their Dexterity modifier + their Wisdom modifier. This means that they can wear no armor and still be very difficult to hit.
Martial Arts: Monks can make unarmed strikes with their hands or feet, and they can use Dexterity instead of Strength for their attack and damage rolls. This makes them very agile and deadly in combat.
Flurry of Blows: Monks can make two unarmed strikes as a bonus action on their turn. This allows them to deal a lot of damage in a short amount of time.
Deflect Missiles: Monks can use their reaction to deflect a ranged attack that is directed at them. This can be very helpful for avoiding damage.
Evasion: Monks can avoid taking damage from area of effect effects if they succeed on a Dexterity saving throw. This can be very helpful for staying alive in the heat of battle.
Patient Defense: Monks can spend a ki point to take a bonus action to dodge. This can be very helpful for avoiding damage.
Step of the Wind: Monks can spend a ki point to take a bonus action to move up to their speed. This can be very helpful for getting out of danger or getting into a better position to attack.

Weapons – Quarterstaff

The Quarterstaff is a versatile weapon that can be used for both melee and ranged attacks. It is also light and easy to wield, making it a good choice for Monks who want to be able to move quickly around the battlefield that the monk class will have weapon proficiency in.

Category: Simple Weapon
Range: Melee
Damage: 1d6 Bludgeoning
Properties: Light, Versatile (1d8)
Cost: 1gp

The Quarterstaff deals 1d6 damage on a successful hit. It can also be used to make ranged attacks, but it deals 1d4 damage in this case. The Quarterstaff is a light weapon, which means that it does not give disadvantage on attacks made while moving. It is also a versatile weapon, which means that it can be used as a d8 weapon when two-handed.

The Quarterstaff is a common weapon, so it is relatively inexpensive to purchase. It is also a good weapon for Monks, as it does not require any special proficiency to use.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using the Quarterstaff in Baldur’s Gate 3:

Pros:

A versatile weapon that can be used for both melee and ranged attacks
A light weapon that does not give disadvantage on attacks made while moving
Affordable and easy to find
Good weapon for Monks, as it does not require any special proficiency to use

Cons:

Deals relatively low damage
Not as effective against heavily armoured enemies
Can be outmatched by other weapons in the late game

Ability Focus – Dexterity and Wisdom

Monks in Baldur’s Gate 3 channel their strength through the dynamic interplay of Dexterity and Wisdom. Dexterity emerges as a linchpin, wielding influence over the Monk’s AC, attack rolls, and the potent force of their unarmed strikes. This attribute underscores the Monks’ combat style, founded upon fleetness and agility.

Wisdom, equally pivotal, extends its sway over the Monk’s saving throws, the compelling Ki save DC, and the apt utilization of select class features. This mental mettle and connection to the Ki energy that fuels their prowess define the Monk’s connection to Wisdom. A robust Wisdom score shields against mental incursions and elevates the potency of their Ki-infused abilities.

In tandem with Dexterity and Wisdom, the Monk’s vitality benefits from a substantial Constitution score. This core attribute amplifies their hit points, an essential lifeline for a class reliant on mobility and finesse amid battles. Bolstering Constitution grants heightened resilience against ailments and toxins, fortifying the Monk’s endurance on all fronts.

Tips to Elevate Your Monk

Use your Ki abilities wisely: Ki abilities are powerful tools that can give Monks a significant advantage in combat. However, Ki points are limited, so it is important to use them wisely including Ki-empowered strikes. Some of the most useful Ki abilities for Monks include:

Flurry of Blows: Allows you to make two additional unarmed strikes as a bonus action.
Deflect Missiles: Allows you to deflect incoming ranged attacks.
Evasion: Allows you to take no damage from area effects if you make a successful Dexterity saving throw.

Use your mobility to your advantage: Monks are very mobile, so use this to your advantage in combat. Move around the battlefield quickly to avoid attacks and get into a position to strike your enemies. You can also use your mobility to escape from danger or to flank enemies for a damage bonus.
Be patient: Monks are not the most powerful class in Baldur’s Gate 3, so it is important to be patient in combat. Don’t try to rush in and attack enemies head-on. Instead, wait for an opening and then strike.
Have fun! Monks are a very versatile class, so there are a lot of different ways to build them. Experiment with different builds and find one that you enjoy playing.

We hope this article about the Best Monk builds in BG3 has been helpful! Larian Studios have spent a good amount of time editing the monk class from the original D&D class and it shows, this class is now balanced and fun and easier to understand. If you enjoyed this article check out our ultimate class list or our best Cleric build.

Best Monk build in Baldur’s Gate 3