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Each of thenew subclasses added inBaldur’s Gate 3Patch 8comes with a distinct concept behind it, featuring abilities that perfectly match their themes. The Swashbuckler Rogue, for instance, lets players take on a character reminiscent of pirates, engaging in close-quarters combat while using deception and flair to outmaneuver opponents. It’s an excellent choice for dealing with isolated targets in a stylish and efficient way.
For those who want to win through the most underhanded means, such as blinding, knocking down, or even taunting enemies, this is the ideal subclass. It introduces a refreshing flavor to the Rogue archetype in the game. However, to truly unlock the full potential of what this subclass offers, building an optimal Swashbuckler Rogue inBaldur’s Gate 3is key, especially when it comes to selecting the right items, races, and even multiclass.
Swashbuckler Rogue Overview In Baldur’s Gate 3
Among all the options introduced in Patch 8, the Swashbuckler Rogue stands out as the most stylish of the twelve. Drawing inspiration from duelists and pirates, it captures the feeling of playing a flashy, agile fighter who thrives in one-on-one scenarios. This subclass performs best when operating away from both allies andother enemies in combat, maximizing the chances of landing high-damage attacks under the right conditions.
It excels in isolated encounters, using mobility and cunning tricks to control the battlefield. It also happens to be one of the best Rogue variants for generating Advantage to trigger Sneak Attacks, while simultaneouslyinflicting various debilitating effects on targets. That said, due to its high mobility, mastering this subclass demands smart positioning during every encounter.
When choosing this subclass at Rogue level 3, players gain the following abilities:
Best Races For Swashbuckler Rogue In Baldur’s Gate 3
While any race can work reasonably well for a Swashbuckler Rogue inBaldur’s Gate 3, since attribute bonuses are no longer tied to race, there are three standout options that offer meaningful synergy with this subclass. These choices provide additional racial features that complement the Swashbuckler’s playstyle, offering both versatility and power:
Best Multiclass Options For Swashbuckler Rogue In Baldur’s Gate 3
Since most of the subclass-defining abilities are acquired by level 9,players can often consider multiclassingafterward to enhance their builds further. Several multiclass combinations stand out as particularly effective, expanding the Swashbuckler’s offensive capabilities and action economy. The most impactful options include College of Swords Bard, Hexblade Warlock, and Fighter for those reasons:
Best Build For Swashbuckler Rogue In Baldur’s Gate 3
Players aiming to create one of the best Swashbuckler Rogue builds in Baldur’s Gate 3 have two distinct paths to follow. Those who prefer a purist,single-class approach should prioritize Dexterity, Constitution, and Charisma, ensuring survivability in melee combat while also maximizing the impact of Dirty Tricks against isolated enemies.
The second route involves multiclassing,most notably with Hexblade Warlock. Choosing this path eliminates the need for high Dexterity to deal damage, as Charisma becomes the primary stat for attacks. Dexterity can still be kept as a secondary attribute to maintain a respectable Armor Class. This setup allows players to focus on Charisma, boosting both damage output and the effectiveness of their Dirty Tricks.
For this build, the recommendation is a Swashbuckler Rogue with just one level of Hexblade Warlock.
8
15 (+1)
14
10
15 (+2)
1
2
3
—
4
5
6
7
9
Feat: +1 Charisma / +1 Dexterity or Alert
11
Feat: Alert or Lucky
12
Rogue 11
In addition to allowing players to use Charisma for attack and damage rolls, the HexbladeWarlock also offers several situational benefitsthat complement the Swashbuckler’s toolkit. For instance, Booming Blade serves as an excellent damage boost in the early game and remains a solid option throughout the campaign, while Shield provides a much-needed layer of defense during close encounters.
However, not having maximum Dexterity at level 1 can make early fights, especially on the Nautiloid and during the first few encounters in Act 1, slightly more challenging. Fortunately, it doesn’t take long to level up and gain access to Hexblade features. Alternatively, players can begin with a full Rogue build and respec using Withers later, once the camp becomes available.
Best Companions For Swashbuckler In Baldur’s Gate 3
Party composition is essentialto ensure the Swashbuckler Rogue performs at peak efficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3. Since the subclass thrives when supported by a balanced team, companions who complement its hit-and-run and crowd-isolation tactics are ideal.
Best Equipment For Swashbuckler Rogue In Baldur’s Gate 3
When gearing up a Swashbuckler Rogue, players should prioritize equipment that enhances Charisma, improves mobility, and increases survivability in one-on-one engagements. Additionally, combining the Phalar Aluve with a buckler can slightly boost Armor Class, although Duellist’s Prerogative remains a strong alternative for more offensive setups.
Enemies have Disadvantage to hit until you take damage
Ignores target’s physical resistances on attacks
Grants Misty Step and prevents slipping on grease/fire
Buffs allies or weakens enemies with a special ability
Guarantees a critical hit after defeating an enemy
Ring of Protection
+1 to Armor Class and Saving Throws
One of the biggest strengths of this build is the use ofFlick o' the Wristas a Dirty Trick bonus action to gain an extra attack per round, removing one of the Rogue’s main disadvantages inBaldur’s Gate 3compared to other classes - the limited number of attacks per turn. However, this attack only works on opponents wielding a weapon and also has a chance to disarm them, so it can occasionally be a more situational move. Therefore, if players want a Swashbuckler with more attacks, it might be worth dropping a few Rogue levels to take 4 more levels in Hexblade Warlock and selecting Pact of the Blade at level three.
