Baldur's Gate 3: Best Monk Class Build

Best BG3 Monk Build: Way of Shadow Overview

What Sets Way of Shadow Apart

Monks of the Way of Shadow are all about sneaky maneuvers and cunning tactics. Picture this: you're in Baldur's Gate 3, eyeing your character creation screen. You've got options, but let's talk about the Way of Shadow. It's not your run-of-the-mill Monk subclass; oh no, it's a powerhouse, akin to the Thief Rogue build. While other Monk paths like the Way of the Open Hand or Way of the Four Elements have their merits, nothing quite matches the sheer potency of the Way of Shadow. Sneak Attacks and Stealth are like bread and butter here, especially when you're dipping into combat from the shadows.

The Way of Shadow Monk is like a fusion of the Rogue and Gloomstalker Ranger classes. These sneaky Monks rely on staying hidden and using their bare fists to unleash havoc. Inspired by Ninjas and other shadowy warriors, they bring a whole new flavor to the battlefield.

At lower levels, Shadow Monks can weave illusions with the Minor Illusion cantrip and dabble in Shadow Arts. This means casting enhanced versions of spells like Pass Without Trace, Darkness, Darkvision, Silence, and Hide as quick bonus actions. But it gets better. As you progress, your Shadow Monk gains the ability to vanish at will, letting you strike from the shadows whenever you please. It's stealth gaming at its finest, perfect for players seeking a different take on the classic Stealth archetype found in Dungeons and Dragons.

Way of Shadow Subclass Features -- Level By Level

Class Feature	Description
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 3	- Minor Illusion: Cantrip - Shadow Arts: Enhanced Hide, Pass Without Trace, Darkness, Darkvision, & Silence
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 5	- Cloak of Shadows: Grants invisibility when obscured, activated as an action
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 6	- Shadow Step: Teleport between obscured areas as a bonus action, granting advantage on the next attack
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 11	- Shadow Strike: Teleport to target for 3d8 damage, requires obscurity and is executed as an action

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, the Githyanki emerge as formidable contenders, boasting innate strengths ideal for diverse character classes. Among these, the Way of Shadow Monks find allies in the Githyanki, capitalizing on their Astral Knowledge ability for unparalleled proficiency in skills linked to selected ability scores. This racial trait becomes a linchpin for engaging dialogue and immersive roleplay within the game's dynamic world. Additionally, as Githyanki progress, they unlock a suite of spells and proficiencies, including the coveted Enhance Leap at Level 3, facilitating swift battlefield maneuvers crucial for Monks. Furthermore, the racial Psionics bestow unique advantages such as an invisible version of Mage Hand, offering strategic versatility. For those inclined towards stealth-based strategies, the Way of Shadow Monks benefit greatly from the Githyanki's spell repertoire, making them formidable adversaries unseen by their foes.

When it comes to selecting the optimal background for Monks, considerations should revolve around enhancing key abilities like Dexterity and Wisdom. Criminal backgrounds, for instance, amplify skills such as Stealth and Deception, aligning seamlessly with the elusive nature of Way of Shadow Monks. Alternatively, the Outlander background bolsters Athletics and Survival, offering advantages in outdoor pursuits and wilderness encounters. Each background presents unique avenues for character development and roleplaying, contributing distinct flavors to the gameplay experience.

Following background selection, Monks must deliberate over skill proficiencies crucial for their chosen path. Stealth emerges as paramount for Way of Shadow Monks, facilitating covert maneuvers and ambushes. Complementing this, Insight proves invaluable, providing keen perception and understanding of adversaries' motives. For Criminal backgrounds, Acrobatics or Religion can serve as secondary proficiencies, further augmenting the Monk's versatility and adaptability in various scenarios.

In the realm of feats, Monks have an array of options to amplify their combat prowess. Tavern Brawler enhances unarmed attacks and improvised weaponry, while Alertness ensures swift reactions and unparalleled readiness in combat situations. Savage Attacker, on the other hand, empowers melee strikes, maximizing damage potential and turning the tide of battle in the Monk's favor.

Regarding ability scores and stat distribution, Monks benefit most from emphasizing Dexterity and Wisdom. These attributes underpin the Monk's agility, combat finesse, and spiritual resilience, aligning with the core tenets of their martial philosophy. Crafting a Monk character with a balanced yet focused approach to ability scores ensures optimal performance and adaptability across various challenges encountered in the world of Baldur's Gate 3.

In the realm of Shadow Monk builds, leveling choices and feats play a pivotal role in shaping your character's prowess. Let's delve into the progression, beginning with the foundational Level 1 and gradually ascending through the ranks. At Level 1 and 2, no specific feats or subclass choices are mandated, leaving you to focus on fundamental abilities. However, at Level 3, a critical juncture emerges with the Subclass Choice. Opting for the Way of Shadow bestows a distinct flavor to your monk, emphasizing stealth and manipulation of darkness. As you reach Level 4, the spotlight shifts to Feat Choice, with Tavern Brawler standing out as a viable option, enhancing your close combat capabilities.

As you hit Level 5 and 6, no significant choices loom, allowing you to hone existing skills. Level 7 maintains this trend with no prescribed feats or subclass alterations. However, as you reach Level 8, another Feat Choice arises, presenting the tantalizing options of Alert or Savage Attacker. These feats imbue your monk with heightened alertness or ferocious combat prowess, respectively, each offering unique strategic advantages.

Navigating through Levels 9 and 10, the path remains unencumbered by mandatory choices, granting flexibility in character development. It's at Level 11 that the absence of mandated decisions persists, enabling you to consolidate existing strengths. Finally, at Level 12, another Feat Choice confronts you, allowing the selection between Alert or Savage Attacker, ensuring that your monk's evolution aligns with your preferred combat style.

In summary, the journey of a Shadow Monk is one of strategic decision-making and tailored progression. Each level presents opportunities for customization, ensuring that your character reflects your playstyle and preferences, ultimately culminating in a formidable force within the realm.

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, Way of Shadow Monks seek the finest gear to bolster their prowess across all Acts. Some items persist in usefulness from early stages to later ones, while new options emerge, potentially overshadowing their predecessors. Act 1 unveils a trove of equipment catering to the discerning monk's needs:

• Head: None (or a cosmetic hat) is the choice here, offering a blank canvas for personal style without altering stats.
• Cloak: Embrace the Deathstalker Mantle, an exclusive option for Dark Urge origin characters, granting expertise in stealth and a two-turn invisibility boon post-slay.
• Chest: Don the Armor of Uninhibited Kushigo, obtained as a reward for the "Find The Missing Boots" quest in Grymforge. It synergizes with Patient Defence, enabling a retaliatory strike against errant foes.
• Gloves: Secure the Bracers of Defence from the hidden cellar of Blighted Village, enhancing AC when unarmored or shieldless.
• Boots: Swiftly acquire the Boots of Speed from Thulla in the Myconid Colony of the Underdark, facilitating swift movement and evasive maneuvers with the Click Heels bonus action.
• Neck: Safeguard with the Moondrop Pendant, discovered within the Selunite Gilded Chest in the Owlbear Nest. It wards against Opportunity Attacks when health dips below 50%.
• Ring 1: Snatch the Smuggler's Ring from a Skeleton near the Risen Road bridge, boosting stealth and sleight of hand while modestly lowering charisma.
• Ring 2: Lay claim to the Ring of Absolute Force from Sergeant Thrinn in the Grymforge. This formidable accessory amplifies attacks with extra Thunder damage and bestows the Thunderwave spell upon the worthy bearer.
• Main Weapon: Opt for the UNARMED approach, though the Blood of Lythander proves a formidable substitute. Discover it amidst the depths of the Rosymorn Monastery or, for the daring, attempt a daring theft.
• Offhand: Acquire Corellon's Grace from Auntie Ethel in the Druid Grove, bolstering Unarmed Attack Rolls, Unarmed Damage, and Saving Throws while unarmored.

These selections, tailored for Act 1, pave the path to mastery for Way of Shadow Monks, ensuring their readiness for the trials that lie ahead.

In the world of shadow monks, gear is as crucial as skill. Here's a rundown of the top-notch items and equipment to amplify your monk's prowess:

Head

• Hat of Uninhibited Kushigo: Gain +1 Spell Save DC after dealing Unarmed damage. Find it at Quartermaster Talli's in the Last Light Inn.

Cloak

• Deathstalker Mantle: This cloak grants expertise in Stealth and lets you vanish for two turns after slaying a foe. Exclusive to Dark Urge origin characters, obtainable after Alfira joins the camp in Act 1.

Chest

• Armor of Uninhibited Kushigo: Wear this and retaliate against any enemy that misses an attack while you're in Patient Defence mode. Reward for completing "Find The Missing Boots" in Grymforge during Act 1.

Gloves

• Gloves of Crushing: Enhance your unarmed prowess with increased hit chance and additional bludgeoning damage. Snag them from Roah Moonglow in Moonrise Towers.

Boots

• Boots of Uninhibited Kushigo: Deal extra damage with your Wisdom Modifier for Unarmed Strikes. Acquire them by defeating Githyanki Monks at the end of Act 2.

Neck

• Surgeon's Subjugation Amulet: Critically hit humanoid foes to paralyze them once per Long Rest. Obtain it from Malus Thorm (the surgeon) in the House of Healing.

Ring 1

• Smuggler's Ring: Boost your Stealth and Sleight of Hand skills while sacrificing a bit of Charisma. Looted from a Skeleton near the Risen Road bridge in Act 1.

Ring 2

• Ring of Absolute Force: Add extra Thunder damage to all attacks and gain access to the Thunderwave spell. Requires the Mark of the Absolute to unlock its full potential. Drops from Sergeant Thrinn in Grymforge during Act 1.

Main Weapon

• UNARMED (or Blood of Lythander): This weapon heals you and your nearby allies, blinds Fiends and Undead, and grants the Sunbeam spell. Earn it by delving into the depths of Rosymorn Monastery after collecting all Ceremonial Weapons or attempt a daring theft during Act 1.

Offhand

• Corellon's Grace: Boost your Unarmed Attack Rolls and Damage, and gain an additional advantage on Saving Throws while unarmored. Available for purchase from Auntie Ethel in the Druid Grove during Act 1.

With this gear in tow, your shadow monk will be a force to be reckoned with on any battlefield.

In the realm of Shadow Monks, the quest for the ultimate gear is a journey fraught with peril and excitement. As we delve into Act 3, the treasure trove of formidable items and equipment awaits. Let's navigate this labyrinthine world of choice, where each artifact holds the promise of power and advantage.

Shadow Monks Equipment Guide: Act 3

Slot	Name	Effect	Location
Head	Hat of Uninhibited Kushigo	Gain a +1 Spell Save DC boost after landing Unarmed blows.	Acquired from Quartermaster Talli at the Last Light Inn (Act 2)
Cloak	Deathstalker Mantle	Bestowed with Expertise in Stealth, wearers can vanish for two turns post slaying foes.	Exclusive to Dark Urge origin characters after Alfira's arrival at the camp (Act 1)
Chest	Vest of Soul Rejuvenation	Succeeding Saving Throws rewards with 1d4 HP, grants Unarmed Strike reaction upon dodging enemies, and boosts AC by +2.	Available at Lorroakan's Projection in Sorcerous Sundries
Gloves	Gloves of Soul Catching	Unarmed Strikes deal 1d10 Force Damage and recover 10 HP per hit. Sacrifice healing for Advantage on incoming attacks and saving throws. Plus, enjoy a +2 CON bonus.	Drops from Raphael upon his defeat in the House of Hope
Boots	Boots of Uninhibited Kushigo	Wisdom Modifier adds extra punch to Unarmed Strikes.	Obtained from Githyanki Monks toward the end of Act 2
Neck	Amulet of Windrider	Unlock the ability to Ride the Winds (Fly) and unleash a Gust of Wind, pushing adversaries back 5 meters.	Completion of the Hag Survivors questline and saving Vanra in Act 3
Ring 1	Smuggler's Ring	Enjoy a +2 bonus to Stealth and Sleight of Hand, albeit at a cost of -1 Charisma.	Found on a Skeleton near the Risen Road bridge (Act 1)
Ring 2	Ring of Absolute Force	Amplify all attacks with an additional 1 Thunder damage, and wield the Thunderwave spell. Exclusive to those bearing the Mark of the Absolute.	Drops from Sergeant Thrinn in the Grymforge (Act 1)
Main Weapon	UNARMED (Blood of Lythander recommended)	Once per long rest, recover 2d12 HP upon reaching 0 HP. Nearby allies benefit from 1d6 HP. Emit a blinding light, affecting Fiends and Undead upon failed CON saves. Plus, unlock the Sunbeam spell.	Delve into the depths of the Rosymorn Monastery post-collecting all Ceremonial Weapons or attempt a daring theft (Act 1)
Offhand	Corellon's Grace	Enhance Unarmed Attack Rolls and Damage by +1 each, along with a bonus +1d4 on Saving Throws while unarmored.	Available for purchase from Auntie Ethel in the Druid Grove (Act 1)

As we embark on our journey through Act 3, remember, the path to greatness is paved with the right gear. Choose wisely, for in the shadows, every advantage counts.

Players diving into Baldur's Gate 3 can start multiclassing from Level 2, simply by hitting the "Add Class" button on the level up overview menu. This opens up a new avenue for character development, allowing allocation of levels into different classes.

Rogue Multiclass - Monk 9/Rogue 3

When it comes to blending Monk prowess with other classes, the Rogue stands out, particularly the Thief subclass. By investing three levels into Rogue, players unlock a range of Rogue abilities, including an extra bonus action. This additional action synergizes seamlessly with the Monk's unarmed combat style, providing more opportunities for strikes and maneuvers.

Opting for the Thief Rogue subclass alongside Monk sacrifices access to certain Monk abilities, such as the Shadow Strike and Purity of Body. However, it introduces the potent Sneak Attack ability, which complements the stealthy tactics of a Shadow Monk or the agile strikes of a Way of the Open Hand Monk.

Fighter Multiclass - Monk 10/Fighter 2

For those seeking a more martial approach, delving into the Fighter class proves beneficial. With just two levels in Fighter, characters unlock the coveted Action Surge ability. This powerful skill grants an additional action on a turn, enhancing combat flexibility and potency.

While this multiclassing choice means forgoing the final Monk Ki point upgrades and a feat, the trade-off is significant. Action Surge greatly amplifies a Monk's combat capabilities, especially for builds reliant on spellcasting, such as the Way of the Four Elements subclass.

Monks in Baldur's Gate 3 bring a unique flair to melee combat, emphasizing hand-to-hand engagements and specialized abilities that amplify their prowess. At the core of their toolkit lies Ki, a replenishing resource essential for executing their most potent maneuvers. Starting with a modest pool of two Ki points, Monks steadily accumulate more with each level gained, empowering them to unleash a flurry of strikes and masterful evasive techniques. Unlike other melee classes, Monks rely on being Unarmed to unlock their full potential, granting them access to a diverse array of Martial Arts abilities. These maneuvers, such as Deft Strikes and Bonus Unarmed Strikes, redefine the rhythm of battle, offering increased flexibility and strategic depth.

Each Monk subclass further refines their combat style, offering distinct approaches to martial prowess. The Way of the Four Elements transforms Monks into elemental spellcasters, imbuing them with unique spells and elemental actions. Meanwhile, the Way of the Open Hand emphasizes control and precision in combat, enhancing Ki abilities and unleashing devastating Flurries of Blows. For those inclined towards stealth and subtlety, the Way of Shadow provides access to shadowy spells and movement techniques, perfect for striking from the shadows with deadly precision.

In terms of proficiencies, Monks favor simplicity, eschewing traditional armor for the freedom of movement afforded by robes and clothing. Their weapon proficiency extends to simple weapons and shortswords, while their adeptness in Dexterity and Strength saves ensures their resilience in the heat of battle. Skill choices such as Acrobatics, Athletics, and Stealth further complement their agile and versatile nature, allowing Monks to navigate both physical and social challenges with finesse.

As Monks progress in levels, they unlock an array of class features that elevate their combat prowess. From the nimble maneuvers of Patient Defense and Step of the Wind to the mystical empowerment of Ki-Empowered Strikes, each advancement brings new dimensions to their martial prowess. With abilities like Deflect Missiles and Evasion, Monks demonstrate an unparalleled mastery of combat agility, effortlessly turning aside attacks and evading danger.

In summary, the Monk class in Baldur's Gate 3 offers players a dynamic and engaging experience, blending intricate melee combat mechanics with strategic resource management. Whether you seek to embody the serene discipline of the Way of the Four Elements, the unfettered freedom of the Way of the Open Hand, or the shadowy cunning of the Way of Shadow, the Monk class stands ready to deliver a truly immersive and rewarding gameplay experience.

Best BG3 Monk Build: Way of Shadow Overview

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, the Way of Shadow Monk emerges as a formidable choice, blending the finesse of a Rogue with the stealth of a Gloomstalker Ranger. Embracing a tradition steeped in stealth and subterfuge, this subclass offers a distinct approach to combat. When initiating or joining battles, the Way of Shadow Monk shines brightly, leveraging Sneak Attacks and Stealth to unleash devastating damage, akin to the prowess of a Thief Rogue build. While alternatives like the Way of the Open Hand and Way of the Four Elements boast their own merits, none quite match the potency of the Way of Shadow.

Drawing inspiration from elusive warriors like ninjas, Shadow Monks harness the power of darkness and agility, relying on Stealth and unarmed strikes to overwhelm adversaries. In the early stages, they wield the Minor Illusion cantrip alongside Shadow Arts, granting them access to specialized versions of spells like Pass Without Trace, Darkness, Darkvision, Silence, and Hide as bonus actions. As they progress, Shadow Monks attain unparalleled mastery, gaining the ability to vanish at will and strike from the shadows with uncanny precision.

Way of Shadow Subclass Features -- Level By Level

Class Feature
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 3
- Minor Illusion (Cantrip)
- Shadow Arts
- Hide becomes a Bonus Action
- Grants Pass Without Trace, Darkness, Darkvision, & Silence
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 5
- Cloak of Shadows
- Turns the caster Invisible, but only if Obscured
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 6
- Shadow Step
- Can teleport from one Obscured area to another
- Automatically grants Advantage on next attack
Way of Shadow Monk Lvl 11
- Shadow Strike
- Teleports to target and deals 3d8 damage
- Caster must be Obscured

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, Githyanki stand out as a formidable choice for monks, boasting potent racial abilities that enhance gameplay dynamics. Their Astral Knowledge ability, granting proficiency in skills aligned with chosen ability scores, significantly enriches dialogue and roleplay interactions. Moreover, as Githyanki advance, they acquire additional spells and proficiencies, including the invaluable Enhance Leap at Level 3, ideal for maneuvering swiftly across the battlefield, and Misty Step at Level 5, facilitating strategic teleportation. For Way of Shadow Monks prioritizing stealth, these abilities prove invaluable, ensuring swift and silent movements. Alternatives like Drow, with their proficiency in Stealth, or Wood Elf, boasting enhanced movement speed, offer compelling choices. Lightfoot Halflings also present a viable option, courtesy of their Lucky racial ability, allowing re-rolls of natural 1s on dice rolls.

When considering backgrounds, Criminal and Outlander emerge as optimal choices for monks, aligning well with Dexterity and Wisdom-based abilities crucial for their prowess. The Criminal background enhances skills like Stealth and Deception, rewarding successful clandestine actions, while the Outlander background amplifies outcomes of Athletics and Survival checks, particularly beneficial in wilderness encounters. Following background selection, Monks further refine their skills, with Stealth being paramount for Way of Shadow Monks. Additional proficiencies such as Insight, Acrobatics, or Religion (for Criminals with trained Stealth) complement their skill set, enhancing their versatility and effectiveness in various scenarios.

Delving into feats, Tavern Brawler, Alert, and Savage Attacker emerge as top contenders. Tavern Brawler amplifies unarmed attacks and improvised weapon usage, Alert bolsters initiative and prevents surprise, while Savage Attacker maximizes melee weapon damage potential, ensuring Monks excel in combat situations.

Lastly, when allocating ability scores, emphasizing Dexterity and Wisdom proves pivotal for Monks. A base Dexterity of 16 bolsters their agility and combat finesse, while a Wisdom of 16 enhances their spiritual attunement and perceptiveness, both critical for mastering the Monk's path.

For those embarking on the journey of Shadow Monk builds, the choices and decisions at each level can significantly impact your character's effectiveness. Let's delve into the progression and explore the key milestones.

Feats & Leveling Choices For Shadow Monk Builds

Class Level	Choices & Recommendations
Level 1	NONE
Level 2	NONE
Level 3	Subclass Choice
	- Way of Shadow
Level 4	Feat Choice
	- Tavern Brawler
Level 5	NONE
Level 6	NONE
Level 7	NONE
Level 8	Feat Choice
	- Alert or Savage Attacker
Level 9	NONE
Level 10	NONE
Level 11	NONE
Level 12	Feat Choice
	- Alert or Savage Attacker (whichever wasn't selected already)

Navigating the progression of a Shadow Monk entails strategic decision-making, especially concerning subclass and feat selections. Each choice contributes uniquely to the character's capabilities and playstyle. Whether opting for the stealthy maneuvers of the Way of Shadow or the versatile combat enhancements of various feats, every decision shapes the path of your monk. Embrace the journey, weigh your options, and forge a Shadow Monk build tailored to your preferences and the challenges that lie ahead.

In the world of Baldur's Gate 3, Way of Shadow Monks need top-notch gear to thrive across all three Acts. Some items from early Acts maintain their power even in later stages. Here's a breakdown of the best gear for these stealthy monks:

Best Way of Shadow Monks Items & Equipment: Act 1

Type	Name	Effect	Location
Head	None (or cosmetic hat)	N/A	N/A
Cloak	Deathstalker Mantle	Grants Expertise in Stealth. Wearer can vanish for two turns after killing an enemy.	Dark Urge origin characters, after Alfira joins the camp
Chest	Armor of Uninhibited Kushigo	Allows an Unarmed Attack as a Reaction when missed while using Patient Defence.	Reward for completing "Find The Missing Boots" in the Grymforge
Gloves	Bracers of Defence	+2 to AC without armor or shield.	Looted in the hidden cellar of the Blighted Village
Boots	Boots of Speed	Enables Click Heels bonus action, granting Disadvantage on incoming Opportunity Attacks.	Purchased from Thulla in the Myconid Colony of the Underdark
Neck	Moondrop Pendant	Prevents Opportunity Attacks when wearer is below 50% HP.	Looted from the locked Selunite Gilded Chest in the Owlbear Nest
Ring 1	Smuggler's Ring	+2 to Stealth and Sleight of Hand, but -1 to Charisma.	Looted from a Skeleton near the Risen Road bridge
Ring 2	Ring of Absolute Force	Adds 1 Thunder damage to all attacks. Grants Thunderwave spell (requires Mark of the Absolute).	Drops from Sergeant Thrinn in the Grymforge
Main Weapon	UNARMED (But, Blood of Lythander works well)	Heals for 2d12 HP once per long rest when reaching 0 HP. Nearby allies gain 1d6 HP. Sheds light that blinds Fiends and Undead. Grants the Sunbeam spell.	Explore the depths of the Rosymorn Monastery, after collecting all Ceremonial Weapons and earning the right to collect it. Or, try to steal it.
Offhand	Corellon's Grace	+1 to Unarmed Attack Rolls and Unarmed Damage. +1d4 on Saving Throws while unarmored.	Purchased from Auntie Ethel while she is in the Druid Grove

For Shadow Monks, these pieces are essential for sneaky success from the get-go, ensuring they stay one step ahead of their foes.

For those stealthy Shadow Monks out there, Act 2 presents a treasure trove of items and equipment to bolster your prowess. Let's delve into the shadows and uncover these gems:

Head

• Hat of Uninhibited Kushigo: After landing some Unarmed damage, enjoy a +1 Spell Save DC boost. Snatch it from Quartermaster Talli in the Last Light Inn.

Cloak

• Deathstalker Mantle: Don this cloak to gain expertise in Stealth and vanish for two turns after slaying an enemy. Exclusive to Dark Urge origin characters, obtainable post-Alfira's arrival in the camp during Act 1.

Chest

• Armor of Uninhibited Kushigo: With Patient Defence on, land a free Unarmed Attack against any missed enemy strike. Reward yourself with it by completing "Find The Missing Boots" in Grymforge during Act 1.

Gloves

• Gloves of Crushing: Up your unarmed hit chances and deal +2 Bludgeoning damage. Buy them from Roah Moonglow stationed in Moonrise Towers.

Boots

• Boots of Uninhibited Kushigo: Kick with extra oomph as your Wisdom Modifier joins the fray for Unarmed Strikes. Grab them from the clutches of Githyanki Monks towards the end of Act 2.

Neck

• Surgeon's Subjugation Amulet: Critically Hit humanoid foes to paralyze them once per Long Rest. Seek it from Malus Thorm (the surgeon) in the House of Healing.

Rings

1. Smuggler's Ring: Enhance Stealth and Sleight of Hand by +2 but suffer a -1 to Charisma. Plunder it from a Skeleton near the Risen Road bridge during Act 1.
2. Ring of Absolute Force: Infuse your attacks with an extra 1 Thunder damage and wield the Thunderwave spell, but only if you bear the Mark of the Absolute. It's a reward from Sergeant Thrinn in Grymforge during Act 1.

Main Weapon

• UNARMED (Blood of Lythander also works well): A miraculous weapon capable of healing you and your allies, blinding Fiends and Undead, and granting the Sunbeam spell. Seek it in the depths of Rosymorn Monastery after earning the right or attempt a daring heist during Act 1.

Offhand

• Corellon's Grace: Boost your Unarmed Attack Rolls and Damage by +1 and enjoy +1d4 on Saving Throws while unarmored. Snag it from Auntie Ethel when she's in the Druid Grove during Act 1.

With these tools at your disposal, become the shadowy force to be reckoned with in your adventures!

In the realm of shadow monks, equipment isn't just gear – it's an extension of oneself. Let's delve into the clandestine world of Act 3 and uncover the most coveted items to amplify your shadow monk's prowess:

Head

• Hat of Uninhibited Kushigo: Don this hat and watch your spell save DC soar by +1 after each unarmed blow. Obtainable from Quartermaster Talli in the Last Light Inn during Act 2.

Cloak

• Deathstalker Mantle: Stealth becomes your ally with this cloak, granting expertise in the art of unseen movement. Additionally, you can vanish for two turns upon felling an adversary. Exclusively available to Dark Urge origin characters after Alfira's arrival at the camp in Act 1.

Chest

• Vest of Soul Rejuvenation: This vest isn't just protective; it's revitalizing. Succeeding on saving throws grants a healing boon of 1d4 HP, while missed enemy strikes trigger an immediate unarmed retaliation. Plus, enjoy a +2 AC boost. Acquire it from Lorroakan's Projection in Sorcerous Sundries.

Gloves

• Gloves of Soul Catching: Infuse your strikes with force, dealing an additional 1d10 damage while replenishing 10 HP with each hit. Opt for an advantage on incoming attacks and saves instead of conventional healing. Plus, revel in a +2 CON enhancement. Snatch it from Raphael's clutches upon his defeat in the House of Hope.

Boots

• Boots of Uninhibited Kushigo: Let wisdom guide your steps as you deal extra unarmed damage equal to your wisdom modifier. Procure these boots from Githyanki Monks towards the end of Act 2.

Neck

• Amulet of Windrider: Soar through the skies with the ability to Ride the Winds, and repel adversaries with a forceful Gust of Wind, pushing them back 5 meters. Conclude the Hag Survivors questline and rescue Vanra during Act 3 to obtain this amulet.

Ring 1

• Smuggler's Ring: Enhance your stealth and dexterity with a +2 bonus to Stealth and Sleight of Hand, albeit at the expense of -1 Charisma. Plundered from a skeleton near the Risen Road bridge during Act 1.

Ring 2

• Ring of Absolute Force: Channel the thunder's might with an additional 1 Thunder damage to all attacks and access to the Thunderwave spell. To unlock these bonuses, bear the Mark of the Absolute. Seize it from Sergeant Thrinn in the Grymforge during Act 1.

Main Weapon

• UNARMED (But, Blood of Lythander works well): Embrace the power of the Blood of Lythander to heal for 2d12 HP once per long rest, while granting nearby allies a boon of 1d6 HP. Emitting a radiant light, it blinds fiends and undead who fail a CON save, and bestows the Sunbeam spell. Earn it by exploring the depths of the Rosymorn Monastery after collecting all Ceremonial Weapons, or dare to steal it during Act 1.

Offhand

• Corellon's Grace: Elevate your unarmed prowess with a +1 boost to attack rolls and damage, coupled with a bonus of +1d4 on saving throws while unarmored. Available for purchase from Auntie Ethel when she resides in the Druid Grove during Act 1.

With these enigmatic artifacts in your arsenal, your shadow monk will ascend to unparalleled heights of power and mystique in the world of Act 3.

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, players seeking to delve into the art of multiclassing can embark on this journey starting from Level 2. A simple click on the "Add Class" button within the level up interface opens up a realm of possibilities, allowing players to blend their Monk expertise with other classes for a diverse array of skills and abilities.

Rogue Multiclass - Monk 9/Rogue 3

For those eyeing the pinnacle of versatility, the Rogue class, particularly the Thief subclass, proves to be a seamless fit alongside Monk prowess. By investing three levels into Rogue, players unlock a variety of Rogue subclass options. Opting for the Thief subclass bestows an extra bonus action, a boon that meshes well with the Monk's affinity for swift, unarmed strikes.

Embracing the Thief Rogue path means bidding adieu to the Shadow Strike ability (exclusive to Level 11 Shadow Monks) and the Purity of Body (a Level 10 Monk perk). However, in exchange, players gain access to the Sneak Attack feature, a perfect complement to the Shadow Monk's stealth-oriented playstyle. Notably, the Thief Rogue subclass synergizes admirably with the Way of the Open Hand specialization.

Fighter Multiclass - Monk 10/Fighter 2

The Fighter multiclass route stands as a cornerstone choice for many adventurers in Baldur's Gate 3, offering unparalleled combat prowess. With just two levels in Fighter, characters unlock the coveted Action Surge ability. This remarkable feat grants an additional action within the same turn, providing Monks with newfound flexibility on the battlefield.

While Monks already boast formidable attack capabilities, integrating Fighter levels entails sacrificing the final two Ki point upgrades and a potential feat. However, the acquisition of Action Surge outweighs these losses, especially for Monk builds with a penchant for spellcasting, such as those following the Way of the Four Elements.

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