Mastering the Barbarian in Baldur's Gate 3: Top Feats for Maximum Rage
Barbarians in Baldur's Gate 3 (BG3) are potent damage dealers, but the right feats can elevate their power significantly. While Barbarians have fewer feat choices than some classes, selecting wisely makes a huge difference. This guide highlights the top 10 feats to consider for your Barbarian build.
Top 10 Barbarian Feats in Baldur's Gate 3
Barbarians are inherently durable and deal substantial damage, but these feats amplify those strengths:
10. Durable
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | +1 Constitution (max 20), regain full HP after each short rest. |
Durable enhances survivability. The Constitution boost is beneficial, but the full HP restoration on short rests is invaluable, especially on harder difficulties.
9. Lucky
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | 3 luck points per long rest; use to gain advantage on rolls or force enemy attack rerolls. |
Lucky's versatility shines. Three luck points per long rest provide options for improving your chances or hindering enemies, making it effective across various situations.
8. Mage Slayer
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Advantage on saving throws against spells cast at melee range; reaction to attack the caster; enemies hit have disadvantage on concentration. |
Mage Slayer directly counters a common Barbarian nemesis: spellcasters. The advantage on saving throws, counterattack, and concentration disadvantage make it a powerful choice.
7. Athlete
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | +1 Strength or Dexterity (max 20); easier standing up from prone; 50% increased jump distance. |
Athlete enhances mobility and exploration. The stat boost is useful, but the improved standing and jumping capabilities are significant for traversal and combat positioning.
6. Savage Attacker
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Roll damage dice twice, use the higher result for melee weapon attacks. |
Savage Attacker boosts damage output. The simple yet effective increase to damage rolls aligns perfectly with the Barbarian's aggressive playstyle.
5. Charger
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Charge 9m, attack the first enemy; does not provoke opportunity attacks. |
Charger is thematically fitting and tactically sound. The ability to charge without provoking attacks allows for aggressive positioning and powerful opening strikes.
4. Tough
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | +2 HP per level gained (retroactive). |
Tough significantly increases survivability. The substantial HP boost, applied retroactively, makes it a valuable choice at any level.
3. Sentinel
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Reaction to attack an enemy targeting an ally; advantage on opportunity attacks; hit with opportunity attack prevents enemy movement that turn. |
Sentinel turns the Barbarian into a formidable protector. The ability to punish enemies attacking allies and hinder their movement makes it exceptionally strong.
2. Polearm Master
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Bonus action attack with polearm butt; opportunity attack when a target enters range. |
Polearm Master synergizes well with polearms' reach. The extra bonus action attack and opportunity attacks significantly increase combat effectiveness.
1. Great Weapon Master
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unlock Level | 4 |
| Effect | Bonus action attack after critical hit or kill; +10 damage, -5 attack roll penalty with heavy melee weapons. |
Great Weapon Master maximizes damage potential. The risk-reward of the -5 penalty is often outweighed by the substantial damage increase and bonus action attack.
These feats offer diverse benefits, enhancing both damage and survivability. While Great Weapon Master offers immediate power, the others provide valuable strategic options depending on your preferred playstyle. Consider your build and desired combat role when making your selections.
