Alright, now, when it comes to them Bards in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3), there’s a bit of a fuss about what armor they can wear, right? You got this Bard here who ain’t like them sword-swingers or shield-toters. Nope, Bards do their thing with a bit of song and spell. So, let’s talk about what’s best to slap on ‘em for armor, and what kind of protection will work without messin’ up their tunes.
1. Starting Off Light: Basic Light Armor
See, Bards start off with what folks call light armor proficiency. They can wear some basic stuff like leather armor and not be bothered too much. Now, light armor don’t weigh ‘em down none, so Bards can still strum a tune and cast spells without much trouble. But you get to thinking, leather armor? That’s all? Yep, that’s the basic. Ain’t gonna protect you from everything, but it does the trick when you’re fresh outta camp.
2. Elven Chain: A Little Extra Protection
Now, if you’re lookin’ for a bit more sturdiness, there’s this fancy armor called Elven Chain. This is real nice for a Bard who wants to keep casting spells without a hitch. Even if you ain’t got the right armor skills, Elven Chain will still protect you. Only trouble is, it ain’t just handed out like a sack of grain at the market. You might have to do some searchin’ or pay a good price at a shop if they got it.
3. Blazer of Benevolence: Early Game Option
Now this Blazer of Benevolence, it’s a bit fancier, if you manage to rescue ol’ Volo, the fellow with all the tales and stories. He’ll hand this out as a thank you, but only if you save him from a tight spot. The Blazer ain’t the toughest around, but it’ll help a Bard look the part early on in the game. It’s got a bit of flair without weighin’ too heavy.
4. Heavy Armor Options: Helldusk Armor
Alright, now let’s get into the meat and potatoes. When you hit later parts of the game, you might want a real tough armor, and that’s where Helldusk Armor comes in. Now, Helldusk, that’s something else! You don’t need heavy armor skills to wear it, which is great ‘cause Bards usually don’t have ‘em. Helldusk gives the best Armor Class you can find, plus it’ll even help you resist fire. Not only that, but it lets you cast Fly once per long rest. Now, that’s mighty handy for gettin’ outta sticky situations or flyin’ over tough terrain.
What’s so special about Helldusk, you ask? Well, for a Bard, it’s like striking gold. It’s got the AC you need and doesn’t stop your spellcastin’. You get this armor, and your Bard will be struttin’ around like royalty. Just remember, this is a later-game find, so keep an eye out for it when you’re deeper into your journey.
5. Ways to Beef Up Your Bard’s Armor Skills
If you’re thinkin’ about makin’ your Bard a bit more durable, you got a couple of choices. For one, you could go with a Swords or Valor Bard subclass around level 3, and that’ll give you some more wiggle room with armor. Then, at level 4, if you really want, take the Heavily Armored feat to put on some serious gear. Just be mindful—heavier armor means no shield unless you’re half-elf or human.
Another trick some folks use is takin’ a level or two in Paladin or Fighter. Doin’ this adds a bit of strength, plus, if you go Paladin, you get Divine Smite which can add some real oomph to your attacks. But remember, you’re dabblin’ in other folks’ trades, so it might change how your Bard plays.
6. Spellcrux Amulet: Extra Casting Power
There’s also the Spellcrux Amulet out there, and if you get your hands on it, it’ll give your Bard some extra spell power. Now, an amulet ain’t armor, true, but every bit helps when you’re tryin’ to make a versatile Bard who can dodge hits and cast spells.
7. Dyeing Armor: Lookin’ Like a True Bard
Let’s say you’re stickin’ to basic armor, but you want your Bard to look the part. Some folks like to dye their armor, so it’s got that real Bard flair. Makes it look a bit like somethin’ special even if it’s just regular leather. So, grab some dye if you come across it, and let your Bard shine a bit.
Conclusion: Best Armor Picks for Your Bard
- Early Game: Stick with light armor or grab that Blazer of Benevolence if you can.
- Mid-Game: Try to find Elven Chain to cast spells freely.
- Late Game: Helldusk Armor is the crown jewel, with high AC, fire resistance, and flight.
So, there you go. Dress up your Bard right, keep ‘em light on their feet or tough as nails, and they’ll be ready for whatever BG3 throws at ‘em. Just remember, every bit of armor’s gonna change how your Bard performs, so pick what suits your playstyle best.
Tags:[Baldur’s Gate 3, BG3, Bard Armor, Helldusk Armor, Elven Chain, Spellcasting, RPG]