Excitement is palpable among fans of Baldur’s Gate 3 with the announcement of Patch 8, touted as the game’s final significant update. This patch is packed with a host of new features, including the highly anticipated cross-play and photo mode. However, the standout highlight is the introduction of 12 new subclasses, which have generated much enthusiasm among the player community.
While these new subclasses are a welcome addition, many players feel that a notable absence hampers the update. Despite ongoing requests from enthusiasts, one fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons class remains missing from Baldur’s Gate 3: the artificer. The absence of this class in Patch 8 has stirred disappointment, as players considered this update the ideal moment to finally incorporate it into the game.
Notably Missing: The Artificer Class
Why the Artificer Should Have Been Included in Patch 8
The artificer is often regarded as the 13th class of the Dungeons & Dragons universe, originally established in the 3.5 edition, while previously appearing as a wizard subclass in earlier editions. This half-caster class shares similarities with paladins and rangers, featuring unique abilities that center around infusing items with magical properties and the capacity to wield spells up to the fifth level. The artificer boasts four subclasses: Alchemist, Armorer, Artillerist, and Battle Smith, each catering to distinct gameplay styles. Despite its official status, the artificer was notably absent from the classes in Baldur’s Gate 3.
|
Artificer Subclass |
Gameplay Style |
|---|---|
|
Alchemist |
Support |
|
Armorer |
Martial Combat |
|
Artilleryman |
Ranged Attacks |
|
Battle Smith |
Melee Combat & Summoner |
One potential reason for the artificer’s absence could be its initial appearances in Eberron-themed content, a setting known for its steampunk aesthetic. Larian Studios’ intention for Baldur’s Gate 3 was to incorporate the character classes outlined in the original Player’s Handbook, which did not feature the artificer. However, the studio has previously incorporated classes from outside the Handbook, creating some confusion regarding their decision.
Discover what’s coming to Baldur’s Gate 3 next year with Community Update #30: ⚔️ Cross-Play ⚔️ Photo Mode ⚔️ 12 New Subclasses ⚔️ Continued Bug Fixing ⚔️ Patch 8 Stress Test – January 2025 Read more: https://t.co/HuVZ4buBuD pic.twitter.com/IPErZJXGKU — Baldur’s Gate 3 (@baldursgate3) November 27, 2024
The artificer was officially introduced in Dungeons & Dragons 5e with Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything. While Patch 8 includes subclasses from this resource, such as the Circle of Stars druid and the Swarmkeeper Ranger, many fans feel that the artificer should have been among them. The demand for the artificer is clear, making its absence even more noticeable in this significant content update.
Characters in Baldur’s Gate 3 Reference Artificers
The Gondians and Ironhand Gnomes: Potential Artificers
Given the context, the lack of the artificer class feels peculiar. There are even indications that it may have been considered early in the game’s development stages but ultimately shelved. For instance, Barcus is described as an alchemist, a title closely associated with one of the artificer’s subclasses. Barcus would have made an ideal companion character, especially given that players initially encounter him when assembling their camp team.
Similarly, Araj Oblodra is another character described as an alchemist, embodying many traits of the artificer. She enhances the potions she provides with diverse magical infusions, aligning closely with the artificer’s core mechanics.
Moreover, many Ironhand gnomes lack defined classes within the game. Among them, Barcus Wroot and Wulbren Bongle stand out, yet they also do not possess specific classifications. This presents an interesting gap that could have been filled by the artificer class. Introducing this class would enrich the Gondian and Ironhand narrative and might encourage players to explore gnome characters, often seen as underrated within Baldur’s Gate 3.
The Case for the Artificer Among the Expansive Classes
Community Modifications Highlight Demand for the Artificer
With Patch 8 dedicated to expanding class options, adding the artificer could have served as a perfect capstone. Player demand for this inclusion has persisted since well before the game’s release, as many enjoy playing as artificers in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. The absence of this option in Baldur’s Gate 3 has left a segment of the fanbase feeling unfulfilled.
The modding community has actively sought to bridge this gap. With the recent addition of a mod manager, players can easily introduce artificer-related content into their gameplay. A notable example is the console mod created by Echo0000, which has been reviewed by YouTuber Jason Dunna. This mod’s high demand underscores fans’ desires for artificer content, and the seamless implementation of existing mods suggests that the class would integrate well into the game’s existing mechanics, with only class-specific dialogue needed for complete immersion.
While the artificer is tied to the Eberron lore, the essence of Dungeons & Dragons rests on diversity and creativity. Many players enjoy exploring this class beyond its original themes. The presence of acknowledged artificers in Baldur’s Gate 3 further advocates for its inclusion, enriching the player experience. Should Larian ever choose to add the artificer to Baldur’s Gate 3, the community would undoubtedly respond with gratitude and enthusiasm.
Sources: Larian Studios/X, Jason Dunna/YouTube
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