In Baldur’s Gate 3, players are always looking for creative builds that push the game’s mechanics to their limits. One of the more unusual ideas that has generated curiosity is the concept of dual wielding quarterstaves. Typically associated with monks, druids, or spellcasters, quarterstaves are two-handed weapons. However, with the right feats, class features, and a bit of clever itemization, some players are experimenting with equipping two at once. This approach, while unconventional, raises interesting questions about rules, utility, and potential synergies in combat scenarios across Faerûn.
Can You Dual Wield Quarterstaffs in BG3?
Understanding Weapon Properties
By default, quarterstaves are classified as versatile weapons in Baldur’s Gate 3. This means they can be wielded in one hand for 1d6 damage or in two hands for 1d8 damage. However, they are not light weapons, which means they are not eligible for standard dual wielding unless certain conditions are met.
How to Bypass Limitations
To dual wield quarterstaffs, players need to find a way to overcome the light weapon requirement that applies to off-hand attacks. This is where theDual Wielderfeat comes into play. This feat allows you to:
- Wield non-light weapons in your off-hand.
- Gain +1 to Armor Class when dual wielding.
With this feat, a character can technically equip two quarterstaves, one in each hand. However, the question remains how functional or practical is this setup in actual combat?
Practical Applications of Dual Wielding Quarterstaffs
Class Considerations
While most martial characters prefer weapons like longswords or battleaxes, some classes can benefit from the staff build. Here’s how certain classes interact with quarterstaffs:
- Monk: Monks are typically associated with quarterstaffs due to their martial arts and dexterity-based combat, but they rely more on unarmed strikes. Dual wielding quarterstaves would not synergize with their main abilities.
- Druid: While druids often carry a staff for thematic and spellcasting purposes, they aren’t focused on physical dual wielding.
- Fighter/Ranger: These classes can utilize Extra Attack and Two-Weapon Fighting to gain the most from this build. A fighter, especially a Battle Master or Eldritch Knight, can deal solid damage and even enhance their strikes with maneuvers or magic.
Combat Style and Damage Output
With theDual Wielderfeat and Two-Weapon Fighting style (gained by Fighters and Rangers), a player can attack with both quarterstaves in one turn. If both weapons have magical properties, the character could deal decent damage while gaining extra effects.
However, there are limitations:
- You must use each staff in one hand, so they deal 1d6 damage instead of the higher 1d8 from two-handed use.
- You won’t be able to cast spells that require a free hand or a focus.
- Bonus action economy becomes tight, especially if your class relies on it for other abilities.
Weapon Enchantments and Quarterstaff Effects
Unique and Magical Quarterstaves
Some magical quarterstaves in BG3 offer more than just physical damage. Many come with buffs, elemental effects, or class-specific enhancements. When dual wielding quarterstaves, you can potentially double up on passive bonuses or switch between effects based on the situation.
For instance, combining two different staffs like:
- Staff of Cronesfor necrotic synergy.
- Staff of Arcane Blessingfor spell DC bonuses.
…can provide a unique blend of offense and utility, especially for hybrid builds like Eldritch Knights or multiclass warlocks.
Synergies with Enchantment Spells
Some enchantments or class abilities may enhance melee attacks with elemental damage, making a dual quarterstaff build more viable. For example, castingShillelaghon one or both staves (via Druid dip or item effect) allows you to use Wisdom instead of Strength or Dexterity for attack and damage rolls, opening up interesting build options.
Multiclass Potential
Combining Classes for Better Dual Wielding
Multiclassing is a great way to make an unconventional build like this work. Some combinations worth considering:
- Fighter (Battle Master) + Druid: Use martial prowess and maneuver dice with magical buffs and Shillelagh.
- Ranger + Warlock: Benefit from Two-Weapon Fighting and use pact magic to enhance survivability or debuff enemies.
- Monk (just 1 level) + Fighter: Start with martial arts proficiency and AC bonuses before switching to weapon-based dual wielding.
Ability Scores to Focus On
Depending on the classes you select, prioritize your stats carefully:
- Strength or Dexterity: For physical attacks with quarterstaves unless using Shillelagh.
- Wisdom: If utilizing Druid spells or the Shillelagh cantrip.
- Constitution: To survive in melee when you lack a shield.
Combat Strategy and Playstyle
Best Scenarios for This Build
This build isn’t optimal for raw damage compared to traditional dual wielding builds with scimitars or shortswords, but it offers versatility. It excels in:
- Roleplay-heavy campaigns where a staff-wielding character fits your concept.
- Mid-level play where unique staves are more available.
- Party compositions lacking frontline casters or hybrid melee damage dealers.
Positioning and Tactics
Dual quarterstaff builds are most effective when you’re able to stay in melee range without needing constant repositioning. Use abilities that support locking down enemies or buffing allies while delivering solid melee attacks. Taking crowd control spells or control-based feats (like Sentinel) can also complement this playstyle.
Drawbacks and Limitations
Why It’s Not Meta
There are several reasons why dual wielding quarterstaffs isn’t considered a meta or top-tier strategy:
- Lower base damage due to not being able to use them two-handed.
- Limited access to attacks with bonus action unless you fully invest in martial combat.
- Fewer magical quarterstaffs than swords or daggers, especially early game.
- Conflicts with spellcasting requirements in classes like Druid or Wizard.
Opportunity Cost
Choosing this path often means giving up stronger builds like sword and board, polearms, or ranged spellcasting. If you’re playing on higher difficulties, survivability and efficiency become more critical, which may leave this concept more suitable for thematic or casual playthroughs.
While not the most optimized build in Baldur’s Gate 3, dual wielding quarterstaves is a fun and creative way to explore the game’s class mechanics, itemization, and roleplay potential. With the right feat namely, Dual Wielder and thoughtful multiclassing, this unconventional approach can be made viable and even enjoyable. The build excels in certain niches, especially for players who enjoy blending magic and martial combat. However, it requires careful planning and a willingness to sacrifice some raw power for uniqueness. For adventurers seeking new ways to engage with the world of Faerûn, this odd yet charming combat style offers a refreshing change of pace.