All New Subclasses Coming to BG3 in Patch 8
Baldur's Gate 3, the 2023 Game of the Year, is about to deliver yet another wave of thrilling content. With the announcement of Patch 8, which is expected to release in early 2025, Larian Studios has unveiled a free update that promises to redefine the player experience. Among the most anticipated features are 12 brand-new subclasses, offering players unprecedented opportunities for customization and strategic innovation.
This monumental update also introduces full crossplay support, enabling players across platforms to join forces, and cross-progression, which makes it seamless to continue adventures from one device to another. Fans of visual storytelling will also appreciate the addition of a photo mode, perfect for capturing their most epic moments.
As a free patch, Patch 8 underscores Larian Studios’ commitment to enhancing one of the most critically acclaimed RPGs of all time. In this article, we’ll explore the new subclasses, examine their gameplay potential, and highlight the other features that make Patch 8 an essential download for every Baldur’s Gate 3 fan. Prepare to dive into a new chapter of adventure in the Forgotten Realms!
12 New Subclasses in Patch 8 of Baldur's Gate 3
Patch 8 introduces a new subclass for each of Baldur’s Gate 3’s 12 main classes, offering fresh ways to play, strategize, and roleplay. From the destructive power of the Death Domain Cleric to the graceful agility of the Bladesinging Wizard, these subclasses breathe new life into the game, pulling from Dungeons & Dragons lore while incorporating creative twists by Larian Studios. Whether you favor tanks, damage dealers, spellcasters, or versatile hybrids, there’s something in this update for every adventurer.
Let’s break down each subclass, exploring their unique abilities and how they’ll shape gameplay in the Forgotten Realms.
1. Death Domain (Cleric)
The Death Domain Cleric turns the traditionally supportive role of a cleric into a damage-dealing powerhouse. With access to necromancy-focused spells like Ray of Sickness and Animate Dead, these clerics excel at spreading devastation. Their unique ability, Touch of Death, amplifies melee attacks with devastating necrotic damage, while Inescapable Destruction lets their necrotic spells ignore enemy resistances.
2. Path of the Giant (Barbarian)
The Path of the Giant Barbarian taps into the primal power of the giants, specializing in enhanced size and unparalleled throwing abilities. These barbarians gain the ability to throw enemies and objects with deadly force, thanks to abilities like Crushing Throw. At higher levels, their size increases to Large, amplifying their reach and damage. With Elemental Cleaver, they can infuse their weapons with elemental energy.
3. College of Glamour (Bard)
The College of Glamour Bard combines charm and battlefield manipulation, making them a tactical support class. Mantle of Inspiration grants temporary hit points to allies and allows them to reposition without provoking opportunity attacks. This subclass also leverages charm effects to influence enemies, with abilities like Mantle of Majesty, which lets the bard cast Command without expending a spell slot.
4. Circle of Stars (Druid)
The Circle of Stars Druid connects with the celestial heavens, drawing power from constellations. By adopting starry forms such as Archer, Chalice, or Dragon, they can transform their role on the battlefield—becoming a healer, ranged attacker, or spellcasting strategist. They also gain Cosmic Omen, a powerful ability that allows them to influence attack rolls, saving throws, or ability checks by adding or subtracting a bonus.
5. Oath of the Crown (Paladin)
The Oath of the Crown Paladin embodies the ideals of law, loyalty, and responsibility. They excel as tanks, using abilities like Divine Allegiance to absorb damage meant for allies. Their spells, including Command and Spirit Guardians, enhance their battlefield control, while their Channel Divinity options allow them to challenge enemies and heal allies in need.
6. Arcane Archer (Fighter)
The Arcane Archer Fighter blends traditional archery with magical prowess. At level three, they gain access to Arcane Shot, enabling unique effects like banishing enemies or piercing through multiple targets. Abilities such as Magic Arrow let their shots bypass resistances, while Curving Shot allows them to redirect missed attacks to other foes.
7. Way of the Drunken Master (Monk)
The Way of the Drunken Master Monk focuses on unorthodox combat techniques, using erratic movements and enemy debuffs. Abilities like Redirect Attack allow them to turn enemies' misses into strikes against other foes. With improved mobility and the ability to disengage freely, this subclass excels at weaving through enemies while delivering devastating blows.
8. Swarmkeeper (Ranger)
The Swarmkeeper Ranger forms a bond with a magical swarm, which can be used to attack enemies, move allies, or control the battlefield. They gain spells like Web and Gaseous Form to augment their versatility. At higher levels, abilities like Writhing Tide grant them flight, making them adaptable in both combat and exploration.
9. Swashbuckler (Rogue)
The Swashbuckler Rogue emphasizes agility and flair, excelling in one-on-one combat. Abilities like Fancy Footwork prevent opportunity attacks from enemies they strike, allowing them to move freely. They also gain bonuses to initiative and the ability to blind or disarm enemies, adding unique battlefield control to their repertoire.
10. Shadow Magic (Sorcerer)
The Shadow Magic Sorcerer thrives in dimly lit areas, leveraging abilities like Shadow Walk to teleport between shadows. With Hound of Ill Omen, they summon a spectral wolf to harass enemies, and Strength of the Grave allows them to resist death once per long rest. Superior darkvision enhances their effectiveness in low-light combat scenarios.
11. Hexblade (Warlock)
The Hexblade Warlock excels in melee combat, blending magic with martial power. They gain Hexblade’s Curse, boosting critical strike chances and restoring health upon defeating cursed foes. Proficiencies in medium armor, shields, and martial weapons make them formidable frontliners, while their ability to use charisma for attack and damage rolls sets them apart.
12. Bladesinging (Wizard)
The Bladesinging Wizard combines arcane mastery with melee combat. Using Blade Song, they gain increased AC, speed, and concentration checks, enhancing their survivability and mobility. At higher levels, abilities like Extra Attack and Song of Defense make them a deadly hybrid of sword and spell, capable of thriving in close combat.
Larian sets a new bar for game developers
Baldur’s Gate 3 continues to set the bar for RPGs, and Patch 8 reinforces why the game earned Game of the Year 2023 honors and Best Community Support in the The Game Awards 2024. With 12 exciting new subclasses, crossplay and cross-progression, and the addition of a photo mode, this free update offers something for everyone, whether you're a veteran adventurer or a newcomer to the Forgotten Realms.
As Larian Studios continues to listen to its passionate community and deliver meaningful content, Baldur’s Gate 3 remains an RPG masterpiece that evolves with its players. Whether you're looking to create new character builds, team up with friends across platforms, or capture the perfect in-game moment, Patch 8 ensures that the journey is far from over.
Prepare your party, adventurers—2025 promises to be another incredible year for Baldur's Gate 3.
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Patrick Yu is a Senior Project Manager at Level Interactive and has 8 years of experience writing business, legal, lifestyle, gaming, and technology articles. He is a significant contributor to Acer Corner and is currently based in Taipei, Taiwan.
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