If you’ve delved into the captivating world of Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ve likely encountered the term armor proficiency at some point. But what if the game informs you that your character lacks proficiency with any armor? Don’t fret, I’m here to shed light on this matter.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of armor proficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3, explaining how your race, class, and choices can impact your character’s defensive capabilities.
How Does Armor Proficiency Work in Baldur’s Gate 3?
In Baldur’s Gate 3, your armor proficiency is determined by your race and class. For instance, humans have proficiency with light armor as part of their racial traits. Fighters and paladins are proficient in various types of armor.
Wizards and sorcerers don’t have any armor proficiency from their class.
However, they compensate with powerful spells—some offensive, some defensive.
To enhance your survivability as a wizard, cast the Mage Armor spell at the beginning of each day. This spell boosts your Armor Class.
How to Gain Armor Proficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3?
To gain armor proficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3, you should select a race that offers it as a racial trait, and invest in defensive spells and abilities that provide Armor Class bonuses.
Races that offer armor proficiency as a racial trait include Human, Half-Elf, Shield Dwarf, and Githyanki.
Warlocks, Bards, and Arcane Trickster rogues are limited to light armor. Druids, Rangers, and most Clerics are limited to light or medium armor.
Spells that provide Armor Class bonuses include Mage Armor, Mage Shield, Blade Ward, or various magical items.
Just one level in the fighter class grants you proficiency in martial weapons, light and medium armor, and shields.
When you reach levels 4, 8, or 12, you can choose a feat. Some feats grant you armor proficiency.
Can You Wear Armor Without Proficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Wearing armor without proficiency in Baldur’s Gate 3 is possible, but it comes with a trade-off. You’ll find yourself unable to utilize specific skills and spells.
In fact, these skills and spells simply won’t function if you’re donning armor that falls outside your proficiency.
What Happens if You Aren’t Proficient With Armor in Baldur’s Gate 3?
If you lack proficiency in the armor or shield you’re using in Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ll face disadvantages in combat, including lower attack accuracy and the inability to cast spells.
Wearing armor you’re not proficient in prevents you from casting spells. This is especially important for spellcasters.
Some abilities and spells won’t function at all in such cases.
Be aware that heavy armors impose a disadvantage on stealth checks, affecting your ability to remain hidden.
Conclusion
In Baldur’s Gate 3, initial armor proficiencies are class-dependent. Wizards and sorcerers do not have any armor proficiency. Humans and warlocks have proficiency with light armor. Fighters and paladins are proficient in various types of armor.