Summary
Games that are based onDungeons & Dragonsrules usually start with choosing a race and class for the protagonist. There are a total of eleven different races to choose from during the character-building process ofBaldur’s Gate 3, and that doesn’t include the various subraces that are also available.
But the lore ofD&Dhas considerably more choices when it comes to races, and even more when counting Unearthed Arcana and homebrewed options. Just in case Larian ever decides to add a few more races along withthose extra Patch 8 subclasses, here are some ideas would make things even more interesting.
7Dhampir
Astarion is a High Elf, and he’s a vampire spawn, not a fully-fledged vampire lord like his master, Cazador. Thepopularity of Astarion’s characterhas prompted more interest in an obscure yet compelling choice that only exists inVan Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.
This is an adventure about vampires, so naturally it has the option of playing as a “Dhampir,” which isn’t exactly a vampire but is connected to one through lineage. The Dhampir is a powerful character, starting with a versatile ability score increase of +2 and +1 to any two choices, or +1 to three of them. Vampiric Bite counts as a weapon, and Deathless Nature means the character doesn’t need air to breathe, which can be handy in any adventure.
6Aasimar
Godlike In Power And Appearance
Considering that part of the story inBG3is about being in direct contact with gods and godlike beings, an Aasimar would make a lot of sense, plus they have some powerful and useful abilities. They have distinctive features, such as metallic eyes, hair that’s white or gold, and perhaps even a halo.
Aasimar often lean more towards good moral choices, and they’re often healing or defending classes such as Clerics, Paladins, or Bards. The version of the race fromVolo’s Guide to Monstersis slightly different, and players can choose between three subraces that represent Protectors, Scourge, and Fallen souls.
5Satyr
The Power Of Mythology
Satyrs come from the Feywild, but it’s not unusual to see them exploring or even living in the material plane. Thanks to one of their special traits, Reveler, Satyrs have proficiency in Persuasion and Performance, two skills that are useful for cheesing tough fights and avoiding physical conflict when navigating tricky NPC dialogue.
Mirthful Leaps gives this race an extra d8 when they use their Jump ability, and anyone who has playedBG3for any length of time knows how often the party uses this skill for finding hidden places and other secrets. Satyrs also get a +2 to Charisma and a +1 to Dexterity, which seems like a natural build for a Bard or Warlock, or adecent basis for a Paladin multiclass.
4Tabaxi
Quick, Chaotic, Deadly, But Still Adorable
In keeping with the spirit of cats as the player knows them, members of this race tend to lean towards the Chaotic side of the alignments, but have equal capacity to be good or evil. They also have Darkvision, and Feline Agility gives them extra speed, which they can also use during combat.
Cat’s Claws make them better climbers, giving Tabaxis an extra speed of 20 feet, and as natural weapons, they do 1d4 damage plua the character’s Strength modifier. Cat’s Talent gives them proficiency in Perception and Stealth, which is great for Rogues, Rangers, and Monks.
3Harengon
The Quick And The Dexterous
The Harengon size ranges from medium to small, depending on the player’s choice. Survival for this race is mostly about speed and Perception, which is heightened thanks to Leporine Senses. Perception is an excellent skill to have inBG3because it helps find traps and other important details in one’s surroundings.
The Hare-Trigger ability allows the player to add their proficiency bonus to their Perception skill, and Lucky Footwork gives them a chance to add a d4 roll to a failed Dexterity save, possibly changing it to a success. There are currently only Halflings and Gnomes inBG3asoptions for smaller races, and the Harengon would add one more.
2Loxodon
Warriors, Clerics, and Barbarians
Just the thought of playing a character that’s part elephant prompts ideas about melee classes and large, blunt weapons. Monks, Barbarians,and Paladins are obviouschoices for the noble Loxodin, which leans towards the Lawful side of the good moral alignment.
Officially, their size is medium, but they get a +2 to Constitution and the ability Powerful Build, which allows them to carry the equivalent of a creature one size larger. A +1 to Wisdom and Loxodon Serenity gives them extra skills against being Charmed or Frightened. Keen Smell, thanks to their oversized noses, increases chances of success on any Perception, Survival, or Investigation check that involves an odor.
1Eladrin Elf
Life In The Seasonal Fey
There are already elves inBG3, and this is an addition that’s a subrace instead of its own distinct species. Right now,BG3has a selection that includes Wood, High, and Drow elves, and another unique addition would be interesting. They’re connected to a season, which the player can choose or use a d4 to determine, and each has their own unique traits and talents.
The Eldarin Elves have some fascinating and useful abilities in addition to the usual talents of Darkvision and ability score increases. Fey Step is a bonus action that the Eldarin Elf can use to teleport to a certain location, similar to the spellMisty Step. Depending on the season, they’re associated with, they can Surprise, Frighten, or deal damage to a target within reach. Keen Senses gives them Perception proficiency, and Trance means the Elf doesn’t need sleep, nor can they be put toSleepwith magic.
