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The Monk is one of the most unusual classes inBaldur’s Gate 3, combining multiple attacks, extraordinary abilities, and high evasion but without the benefit of armor class or certain weapons. A creative player can find several ideal combinations with other classes for the Monk, but one of the best options is with one that shares the same AC options: the Barbarian.
The Barbarian class is equally versatile when it comes to useful stats, focusing on either Strength or Constitution, so it makes sense to focus on Constitution for this build. However, there are several other steps a player can take to improve a character’s Strength stat as they progress to level 12, should they so choose.
Updated July 23, 2025, by Kristy Ambrose:The numerous updates and bug fixes that have been applied to BG3 in the months since its release have changed a few details about character creation and multiclassing, but the basic rules are the same. Monks and Barbarians are a nice mix because they have a lot in common when it comes to unarmed combat, extra movement options, using no armor, and improvised weapons. Remember that the choicesyou make as you level, which might include skills related to race as much as class, are also important determining factors.
Recommended Races
Prioritize Dexterity, Constitution, And Wisdom
Choosing certain racescan give your Monk some advantages when it comes to weapon proficiencies, useful cantrips, and movement speed. These are the ideal choices for those who plan to multiclass into Barbarian:
Background, Feats, and Gear
Building A Constitution-Based Multiclass Character
Use role-play, backstory, and future leveling plans as a guide when selecting Backgrounds and Feats for your Barbarian/Monk character.
Backgrounds
A Monk can come from a variety of places, and a Barbarian Monkhas a few obvious choices:
Feats
Gear
Strength is an important stat for Barbarians, but not so much for Monks. Chose clothing and weapons that improve the Strength stat. Constitution is a stat that both classes share, which makes this another good choice.
Monk, Levels 1 to 7
Choose A Subclass And Extra Ki Points
Players can also switch to Barbarian as early as Level 4, which still gives them a choice of Subclass and Slow Fall. Another option is to go to level 8 as a Monk and gain an extra Feat along with Ki Empowered Strikes. Monks gain an equal amount of extra Ki points for every level.
Barbarian, Levels 1 to 5
Use Constitution Or Strength
Players can also start with Barbarian instead if they would prefer a melee DPS build that uses Strength or Constitution more than Wisdom or Dexterity. Regardless, here’s how the Barbarian leveling shakes out.
Other Multiclass Options
Should the player opt for a third class, or decide that the Barbarian isn’t for them, other classes are equally effective, perhaps even better. The following options are based on common ability scores and skill modifiers.
