This guide details a powerful multiclass build combining the Gloomstalker Ranger and Assassin Rogue subclasses in Baldur's Gate 3. This hybrid excels at both ranged and melee combat, leveraging stealth and devastating damage.
The synergy between Ranger and Rogue is potent. Both rely heavily on Dexterity for core abilities and share skills crucial for stealth, lockpicking, and trap disarming. Rangers contribute weapon proficiencies and supportive spells, while Rogues offer potent melee capabilities. Their combined stealth prowess is unmatched.
Updated December 24, 2024, by Kristy Ambrose: While Larian Studios has confirmed no BG3 DLC or sequels, Patch 8 (2025) introduces new subclasses, opening exciting build possibilities. For this Ranger/Rogue combination, Dexterity remains paramount, complemented by Wisdom for Ranger spellcasting. Careful selection of race, background, feats, and gear further optimizes the build.
The Gloomstalker Assassin Build: Savage Stealth in Any Environment
This build merges the deadly precision of an assassin with the wilderness survival skills of a Gloomstalker. Damage output is exceptional, whether at close or long range, depending on your chosen specialization. Stealth, Sleight of Hand, and Dexterity proficiency are core strengths. Depending on racial choices and cantrips, limited spellcasting can also be integrated.
Ability Scores: Dexterity and Wisdom Take Center Stage
Prioritize physical damage and survivability, but don't neglect spells entirely.
Race Selection: Tailoring Your Ancestry
Race | Subrace | Abilities |
---|---|---|
Drow | Lloth-Sworn | Superior Darkvision, Drow Weapon Training, Fey Ancestry, spells like Faerie Fire and Darkness. |
Seldarine | Superior Darkvision, Drow Weapon Training, Fey Ancestry, spells like Faerie Fire and Darkness. | |
Elf | Wood Elf | Improved Stealth, increased movement speed, Elven Weapon Training, Darkvision, Fey Ancestry. |
Half-Elf | Drow Half-Elf | Advantages of Drow and Human, enhanced weapon/armor proficiency, Civil Militia ability. |
Wood Half-Elf | Elven Weapon Training, Civil Militia. | |
Human | na | Civil Militia Feat, increased movement speed and carrying capacity. |
Githyanki | na | Increased movement speed, spells like Enhanced Leap and Misty Step, Martial Prodigy (medium armor proficiency). |
Halfling | Lightfoot | Brave, Halfling Luck, advantage on Stealth checks. |
Gnome | Forest | Speak with Animals, improved Stealth. |
Deep | Superior Darkvision, Stone Camouflage (advantage on Stealth checks). |
Backgrounds: Shaping Your Character's Past
Background | Skills | Description |
---|---|---|
Outlander | Athletics, Survival | Ideal for a Ranger, reflecting a life in the wilderness. |
Charlatan | Deception, Sleight of Hand | A more sophisticated criminal, relying on charm and guile. |
Soldier | Athletics, Intimidation | A soldier turned smuggler, combining discipline with cunning. |
Folk Hero | Animal Handling, Survival | A classic hero archetype, fitting for a Ranger or Rogue. |
Urchin | Sleight of Hand, Stealth | A streetwise Rogue, skilled in thievery from a young age. |
Criminal | Deception, Stealth | A common Rogue background, also suitable for an urban-dwelling Ranger. |
Feats: Refining Your Abilities
Twelve levels allow for six feats. Consider a balance of Ranger and Rogue levels (e.g., 10 Ranger/3 Rogue).
Feat | Description |
---|---|
Ability Score Improvement | Increase one ability score by 2 or two by 1 (boost Dexterity and Wisdom). |
Alert | Prevents the Surprised condition, +5 bonus to Initiative. |
Athlete | +1 Dexterity or Strength, faster recovery from Prone, increased jump distance. |
Crossbow Expert | Removes Disadvantage on ranged attacks in melee, doubles Gaping Wounds duration. |
Dual Wielder | Use two weapons (non-heavy), +1 to AC while dual-wielding. |
Magic Initiate: Cleric | Grants access to a few Cleric spells. |
Mobile | +10 movement speed, unaffected by difficult terrain while Dashing, avoids Attacks of Opportunity. |
Resilient | Increase one ability score by 1 and gain proficiency in that ability's saving throws. |
Spell Sniper | Enhanced ranged spellcasting, access to cantrips using Wisdom or Dexterity as a casting modifier. |
Gear Recommendations: Enhancing Your Prowess
Prioritize items boosting Dexterity, Wisdom, or Constitution. Rogues are limited to clothing, while Rangers have broader equipment options.
This detailed guide provides a solid foundation for building your Gloomstalker Assassin. Remember to adapt and experiment based on your preferred playstyle and the challenges you encounter in your Baldur's Gate 3 journey.