When you think of powerful characters in the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, bards might not be the first class that comes to mind. After all, with options like barbarians and assassins, being a musician may seem like a tough sell. However, in this game, bards bring more to the table than just a catchy tune. These magical minstrels use their instruments to weave powerful spells, making them one of the best support classes available. If you’re looking to enhance your party’s abilities and bring out the best in your companions, playing as a bard may be your best bet. Let’s take a look at some of the best bard spells in Baldur’s Gate 3.
8. Heat Metal
Heat Metal is a unique spell that combines both damage and debuff effects. Instead of directly targeting an enemy, you choose to heat their metal armor or weapon. This causes fire damage and forces the enemy to either drop their weapon or suffer disadvantage on attacks and ability checks. If the enemy continues to touch the heated metal, the effect can be extended across multiple turns. This unconventional yet potent spell is undoubtedly one of the best choices for a bard.
7. Cloud of Daggers
What’s more intimidating than a single dagger? A swirling tornado of blades, of course! Cloud of Daggers summons a mass of daggers that hang in the air, slicing up anything that comes into contact with them. Dealing consistent damage over ten turns, this spell can be used to control an area and block enemies from advancing. Whether you’re trying to protect your party or control the field, Cloud of Daggers is a cost-effective option that deserves a spot in your bard’s spell arsenal.
6. Bestow Curse
As a bard, your role is to enhance your party members while hindering your enemies. Bestow Curse, a spell hailing from the necromancy school, allows you to do just that. This versatile spell can rob enemies of actions, make them vulnerable to damage, or impose disadvantage on their activities. While pure damage-dealing spells often steal the spotlight, the debuff potential of Bestow Curse is a valuable asset to any bard’s repertoire.
5. Crown of Madness
Crown of Madness is a level 2 enchantment spell that can turn the tide of battle. When cast, it causes the target to temporarily lose their mind and attack the nearest creature (other than the caster). This spell not only removes a source of incoming damage but also turns an enemy against their allies. The only downside is the need to maintain concentration, requiring strategic play and careful avoidance of hits. Mastering this spell allows you to manipulate the battlefield and keep your party members safe.
4. Mass Healing Word
Some spells are complex with multiple effects, but Mass Healing Word is simple and effective. This level 3 evocation spell allows you to heal up to six allies, providing 4-7 points of healing each within an 18-meter range. In large battles with multiple allies in need of healing, Mass Healing Word ensures that everyone receives some much-needed medical attention. Don’t limit your healing to just the tank; this spell allows you to support your entire party at once.
3. Fireball
No spell tier list for Baldur’s Gate 3 would be complete without Fireball. This powerful area-of-effect (AoE) spell has good range and the potential to incinerate multiple enemies at once. However, using Fireball requires careful aim to avoid friendly fire, especially if you or your enemies have introduced grease into the mix. Despite the risk, Fireball remains a top choice for bards due to its consistently high damage output. Just remember to practice your aim early in the game!
2. Counterspell
Counterspell is a spell that players of Magic: The Gathering would find familiar. As the name suggests, this spell allows you to counter and dispel enemy spells. While countering higher-level spells requires more effort, the ability to shut down an enemy mage can be invaluable in combat. Counterspell is a versatile and powerful spell that can prevent disaster and turn the tide of battle in your favor. It’s no surprise that it finds its place as one of the best bard spells in Baldur’s Gate 3.
1. Haste
Haste is a spell that can be cast by several different classes, but bards excel at using its power to empower their allies. As a bard, your goal is to enhance your teammates, and when you spend your turn speeding up an ally with Haste, it never feels like a missed opportunity. Haste increases the number of actions available to its target, allowing fighters to rush into battle or sorcerers to cast more devastating spells. Its versatility and raw power make Haste one of the best spells in a bard’s arsenal.
Baldur’s Gate 3 is available now for PC, and it will be coming to PlayStation 5 on September 6. Make sure to harness the power of these incredible bard spells to bring success and support to your party’s adventures.
