In the mystical and treacherous world of Baldur’s Gate 3, where shattered lands and powerful spirits collide, your journey as an adventurer begins. As you explore the realms, you’ll encounter formidable foes and ancient relics. Among these artifacts are the best weapons powerful tools that can turn the tide of battle. Whether you’re a seasoned warrior or a curious newcomer, this guide will lead you to the finest weapons and reveal their locations. Let’s delve into the magical and uncover the secrets of these legendary blades.
What Is Armor Class (AC) in Baldur’s Gate 3?
When you think of armor in a video game, you likely imagine something that reduces the amount of damage you take when hit or absorbs a certain amount of damage before your health starts to decrease. However, that’s not how armor class (AC) works in Baldur’s Gate 3. AC determines how protected someone is from being hit by an attack. When an attack is made, the creature attacking rolls a D20; if that roll (plus all its bonuses) equals or exceeds the AC number of the creature being attacked, then the attack is successful, and damage is dealt. If the roll is below the AC number, the attack misses.
For example:
- If I attack and roll a 16 against a creature with an AC of 15, then the attack succeeds, and I deal damage.
- If the creature has an AC of 18, then that attack would miss.
How Is Armor Class Determined?
- Base AC: Every character has a base AC of 10 plus their Dexterity modifier, not including armor, shields, or other effects. Players with a Dexterity above 11 get a boost to their AC, while players with Dex below 10 have their AC reduced.
- Armor and Shields: AC is also influenced by armor and shields. These items increase your AC when equipped, but choose wisely:
- Heavy Armor: Provides a ton of AC but offers no benefit from your Dexterity modifier.
- Medium Armor: Provides a moderate amount of AC but restricts your Dexterity modifier to +2.
- Light Armor: Offers the smallest AC increase but doesn’t restrict your Dexterity modifier at all.
- Shields: Add +2 or +3 to any character’s AC, but equipping a shield may reduce your attacking rolls.
How to Improve Your AC
- Increase Dexterity: Boost your natural defenses by increasing your character’s Dexterity as much as possible. Allocate your Ability Score at Character Creation wisely.
- Find Better Armor Sets: Seek out armor that enhances your AC. Choose the type of armor based on your character build:
- Rogues and Ranged Characters: High Dexterity characters benefit from light armor to maximize their modifier bonus.
- Tank Characters: High Strength and Constitution characters should wear heavy armor.
- Use Shields: Equipping a shield adds +2 or +3 to your AC. Keep in mind that it may reduce your attacking rolls.
- Spells and Effects: Some spells and effects can increase your AC:
- Armor of Shadows (spell): Provides +3 AC if you’re not wearing armor.
- Shield of Faith (spell): Adds +2 AC.
- Defense (fighting style): Grants +1 AC (martial classes only).
