In Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3), the Monk class shines in melee combat and unarmored agility. They can leap into action, disengage with ease, and even stun their foes. But what if you want a stealthy approach? The good news is that the Monk can embrace stealth too, especially if you select the Way of the Shadow subclass.
Here’s a breakdown of why the Shadow Monk might be the right choice for you.
Why Choose the Shadow Monk Subclass?
At level 3, Monks can specialize in the Way of Shadow, unlocking incredible stealth abilities. The Shadow Monk offers a mix of strategic and sneaky gameplay, letting you teleport, silence enemies, and even become invisible.
While other subclasses like Way of the Open Hand and Way of Four Elements bring unique strengths, the Shadow Monk excels in utility and versatility. It allows you to play as a stealthy assassin while maintaining the speed and precision that define the Monk class.
What Makes the Shadow Monk Stand Out?
- Cloak of Shadows: This ability lets you turn invisible, making it easy to bypass enemies and Arcane Turrets. You can also use this to strike an unsuspecting enemy in the backline without triggering alarms.
- Shadow Step: Teleport across the battlefield without being noticed. This can give you the upper hand by getting close to enemies or reaching strategic spots.
- Shadow Arts: Darkness & Dark Vision: Use Darkness to blind your enemies or enhance your visibility in low-light areas with Dark Vision. Both abilities help you gain a tactical edge.
- Minor Illusion: Create a distraction to sneak past tough guards or tricky areas. This spell can be a lifesaver in stealth-heavy missions.
- Pass Without Trace: Boost your stealth checks to move undetected. Whether sneaking through hostile zones or planning an ambush, this makes your Monk hard to spot.
- Shadow Strike: Unarmed: Once unlocked, this lets you teleport directly to an enemy and deal massive damage—a great option for surprise attacks.
Is the Shadow Monk Right for You?
Ultimately, the usefulness of the Shadow Monk depends on your playstyle. If you enjoy strategic gameplay, sneaky attacks, and outsmarting your enemies, this subclass will be perfect. It’s an excellent option for players who want versatility without sacrificing the core traits of the Monk class. While other subclasses may offer raw power, the Shadow Monk provides a toolkit for creative and stealthy solutions.
