Best Baldur’s Gate 3: Lae’zel Companion Build Guide

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8, released on April 15, 2025, marks the final major update for Larian Studios’ critically acclaimed RPG. This patch introduces 12 new subclasses—one for each of the game’s core classes—alongside cross-play, Photo Mode, and a host of quality-of-life improvements. For players eager to explore fresh builds and gameplay styles, these subclasses offer exciting new mechanics, spells, and tactical options.

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of every new subclass, their unique abilities, and step-by-step instructions on how to unlock them. Whether you’re a veteran adventurer or a newcomer to the Forgotten Realms, this article will help you master the latest additions to Baldur’s Gate 3.

Introduction to Patch 8: What’s New?

Patch 8 is a landmark update for Baldur’s Gate 3, designed to expand character customization and replayability. The patch’s centerpiece is the addition of 12 new subclasses, each tailored to a specific class and offering distinct playstyles. From the Bladesinging Wizard—a fusion of swordplay and spellcasting—to the Death Domain Cleric, which harnesses necrotic energy, these subclasses are built to diversify combat strategies and roleplaying opportunities.

In addition to subclasses, Patch 8 introduces:

Cross-Play: Players on PC, Mac, Xbox, and PlayStation 5 can now adventure together seamlessly.
Photo Mode: Capture and customize in-game moments with a robust suite of tools, including filters, stickers, and camera controls.
Modding Enhancements: The Baldur’s Gate 3 Toolkit now supports partial level editing, allowing modders to create even more immersive content.
Bug Fixes and Balance Tweaks: Hundreds of improvements to gameplay, UI, and stability.

All 12 New Subclasses: Abilities and Features

Below is a detailed overview of each new subclass, including their signature abilities, spells, and unlock requirements.

1. Bladesinging Wizard

The Bladesinging Wizard merges martial prowess with arcane mastery, allowing players to wield swords and spells with equal finesse. This subclass is ideal for those who want to be both a frontline fighter and a spellcaster.

Bladesong: Grants a +2 bonus to Armor Class, increased movement speed, and Advantage on Acrobatics checks. Also provides a +2 bonus to Constitution saving throws, making you harder to knock out of combat.
Extra Attack: At Level 6, you can make an additional free attack after a weapon or unarmed strike.
Song of Defense: At Level 10, you can expend a spell slot to reduce incoming damage.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 2 for Wizards.

2. Death Domain Cleric

The Death Domain Cleric is a harbinger of doom, specializing in necrotic damage and undead manipulation. This subclass is perfect for players who enjoy dealing devastating damage while supporting their allies.

Touch of Death: Use Channel Divinity to deal extra necrotic damage on melee attacks.
Inescapable Destruction: At Level 6, your spells ignore resistance to necrotic damage.
Divine Strike: Necrotic: At Level 8, deal additional necrotic damage on melee attacks.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 1 for Clerics.

3. Circle of Stars Druid

The Circle of Stars Druid draws power from the cosmos, offering three unique Starry Forms: Archer, Chalice, and Dragon. Each form provides distinct combat and support abilities.

Starry Form: Archer: Cast Luminous Arrow as a Bonus Action, dealing radiant damage.
Starry Form: Chalice: Enhance healing spells with additional effects.
Starry Form: Dragon: Gain improved concentration saves and the ability to cast Dazzling Breath.
Cosmic Omen: At Level 6, consult the stars to grant allies bonuses or penalize enemies.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 2 for Druids.

4. Arcane Archer Fighter

The Arcane Archer Fighter infuses arrows with magical energy, allowing for devastating ranged attacks. This subclass is perfect for players who want to combine archery with spellcasting.

Arcane Shots: Choose from a variety of magical arrows, such as Banishing Arrow, Beguiling Arrow, and Bursting Arrow.
Curving Shot: At Level 7, missed magical ranged attacks can be redirected to the next closest target.
Magic Arrow: All ranged attacks are considered magical, overcoming resistance.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Fighters.

5. Way of the Drunken Master Monk

The Way of the Drunken Master Monk uses unpredictability and alcohol-fueled antics to confuse and overwhelm enemies. This subclass is both fun and powerful, offering unique movement and combat abilities.

Cheeky Tipple: Regain Ki Points by drinking alcohol, and become immune to the negative effects of being drunk.
Drunken Technique: Punch twice in quick succession and gain additional movement.
Intoxicating Strike: At Level 4, hit enemies to apply the Drunk condition, making them more vulnerable.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Monks.

6. Oath of the Crown Paladin

The Oath of the Crown Paladin is a champion of law and order, specializing in defense and crowd control. This subclass is ideal for players who want to protect their allies and disrupt enemy formations.

Champion Challenge: Compel enemies to attack only you, granting allies protection.
Divine Allegiance: At Level 7, absorb damage dealt to nearby allies.
Turn the Tide: Heal all nearby non-enemy creatures with a shout.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 1 for Paladins.

7. Swarmkeeper Ranger

The Swarmkeeper Ranger bonds with a swarm of nature spirits, using them to deal damage, teleport, and control the battlefield. This subclass is highly versatile, offering both offensive and defensive options.

Gathered Swarm: Choose from Legion of Bees, Cloud of Jellyfish, or Flurry of Moths, each with unique effects.
Writhing Tide: At Level 7, use your swarm to gain a flying speed and protection from surface effects.
Mighty Swarm: At Level 11, your swarm’s attacks deal increased damage and provide additional benefits.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Rangers.

8. Swashbuckler Rogue

The Swashbuckler Rogue excels in single combat, using agility and wit to outmaneuver foes. This subclass is perfect for players who enjoy fast-paced, high-risk combat.

Fancy Footwork: Avoid opportunity attacks after making a melee attack.
Rakish Audacity: Gain a bonus to Initiative and trigger Sneak Attack without needing Advantage.
Panache: At Level 9, use Persuasion to beguile or charm enemies.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Rogues.

9. Shadow Magic Sorcerer

The Shadow Magic Sorcerer draws power from the Shadowfell, excelling in darkness and deception. This subclass is ideal for players who enjoy stealth and shadow-based spells.

Hound of Ill Omen: At Level 6, summon a spectral hound to attack enemies.
Shadow Walk: At Level 11, teleport between shadows and enhance your next spell.
Strength of the Grave: Regain 1 hit point instead of becoming downed at 0 HP.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 1 for Sorcerers.

10. Hexblade Warlock

The Hexblade Warlock forms a pact with a sentient weapon from the Shadowfell, gaining powerful curses and necrotic abilities. This subclass is perfect for players who want to deal massive damage and control the battlefield.

Hexblade’s Curse: Curse a target to deal bonus damage and reduce their critical hit threshold.
Accursed Spectre: At Level 6, raise a spectral ally from a fallen cursed enemy.
Armour of Hexes: At Level 10, potentially nullify attacks from cursed enemies.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 1 for Warlocks.

11. College of Glamour Bard

The College of Glamour Bard uses fey magic to inspire allies and charm enemies. This subclass is ideal for players who enjoy support and crowd control.

Mantle of Inspiration: Grant temporary hit points to allies and charm attackers.
Mantle of Majesty: At Level 6, command charmed enemies to flee, freeze, or drop their weapons.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Bards.

12. Path of the Giant Barbarian

The Path of the Giant Barbarian channels the strength of giants, gaining increased size, throwing power, and elemental damage. This subclass is perfect for players who want to deal massive physical and elemental damage.

Giant’s Rage: Enter a rage to increase size and double throwing damage.
Elemental Cleaver: At Level 6, imbue your weapon with elemental damage and gain the Thrown property.
Mighty Impel: At Level 10, throw creatures or objects with devastating force.
Unlock Level: Available at Level 3 for Barbarians.

How to Unlock the New Subclasses

Unlocking the new subclasses in Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 is straightforward. Each subclass becomes available at a specific level for its corresponding class. Below is a quick reference table:

Level 1: Cleric (Death Domain), Sorcerer (Shadow Magic), Paladin (Oath of the Crown), Warlock (Hexblade)
Level 2: Druid (Circle of Stars), Wizard (Bladesinging)
Level 3: Barbarian (Path of the Giant), Bard (College of Glamour), Fighter (Arcane Archer), Monk (Way of the Drunken Master), Ranger (Swarmkeeper), Rogue (Swashbuckler)

To unlock a subclass, simply reach the required level for your chosen class and select the subclass during the level-up process. Each subclass offers unique abilities that can dramatically alter your playstyle, so choose wisely based on your preferred role in combat.

Pro Tips for Maximizing the New Subclasses

To get the most out of the new subclasses, consider the following expert tips:

Synergize Abilities: Combine subclass features with your class’s core abilities. For example, a Bladesinging Wizard can use Bladesong to boost Armor Class before casting spells, while a Death Domain Cleric can pair Touch of Death with necrotic spells for maximum damage.
Experiment with Multiclassing: Some subclasses, like the Arcane Archer Fighter or Hexblade Warlock, can be powerful when multiclassed with spellcasters or melee classes.
Optimize Gear: Equip weapons and armor that complement your subclass. For instance, a Swarmkeeper Ranger benefits from ranged weapons, while a Path of the Giant Barbarian should focus on heavy, two-handed weapons.
Use Environmental Tactics: Subclasses like the Circle of Stars Druid and Shadow Magic Sorcerer excel in specific environments. Use darkness, elevation, and terrain to your advantage.
Focus on Team Synergy: Subclasses like the College of Glamour Bard and Oath of the Crown Paladin are designed to support allies. Coordinate with your party to maximize buffs and crowd control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are the new subclasses available in existing save files?

Yes, you can unlock and use the new subclasses in both new and existing save files, provided your character meets the level requirement for their class.

2. Can I respec my character to try a new subclass?

Yes, you can use the Withers NPC in your camp to respec your character and choose a new subclass, provided you meet the level requirement.

3. Do the new subclasses work in multiplayer?

Absolutely! All new subclasses are fully compatible with multiplayer, including cross-play between PC, Mac, Xbox, and PlayStation 5.

4. Are there any new spells or cantrips associated with the subclasses?

Yes, each subclass introduces unique spells and cantrips. For example, the Death Domain Cleric gains access to new necrotic spells, while the Circle of Stars Druid can cast Guiding Bolt without a spell slot.

5. Can I use mods with the new subclasses?

Yes, but ensure all players in a multiplayer session have the same mods installed to avoid compatibility issues. The Baldur’s Gate 3 Toolkit now supports partial level editing, allowing for even more modding possibilities.

6. What is the best subclass for beginners?

For beginners, the Oath of the Crown Paladin and College of Glamour Bard are excellent choices. Both offer strong support abilities and are forgiving in combat.

7. Are there any new achievements tied to the subclasses?

Patch 8 includes new achievements related to the subclasses, such as using specific abilities or completing challenges with certain subclasses equipped.

Conclusion

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 is a monumental update that breathes new life into the game with its 12 new subclasses, cross-play functionality, and Photo Mode. Each subclass offers unique mechanics and playstyles, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans will find fresh ways to enjoy the Forgotten Realms. Whether you’re drawn to the arcane archery of the Arcane Archer Fighter, the cosmic power of the Circle of Stars Druid, or the shadowy might of the Hexblade Warlock, Patch 8 delivers something for every type of player.

By understanding the strengths and unlock requirements of each subclass, you can tailor your character to fit your preferred role—whether as a frontline warrior, a spellcasting support, or a stealthy rogue. Experiment with different builds, synergize with your party, and make the most of the new tools at your disposal.

With Patch 8, Larian Studios has not only expanded the depth of Baldur’s Gate 3 but also set the stage for future adventures. As the community continues to explore these new subclasses, the possibilities for creativity and strategy are endless.