Best Monk Build in Baldur's Gate 3
A complete Baldur's Gate 3 Monk build guide covering Way of the Open Hand vs Four Elements, ability scores, stunning strike, and a level 1-12 unarmed damage plan.
Best Monk Build in Baldur’s Gate 3
The Monk is BG3’s fastest melee striker. Unarmored Defense lets you skip armor entirely, Flurry of Blows gives extra attacks, and Stunning Strike can end encounters by paralyzing key enemies. This guide builds a Open Hand Monk that scales from level 1 to 12.
Tradition Choice
| Tradition | Style | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Open Hand | Pure striker | Best damage + control |
| Four Elements | Spell-like ki | Flavorful, weaker |
| Shadow | Stealth teleport | Strong, gimmicky |
Recommendation: Way of the Open Hand for reliable damage and the best Stunning Strike synergy.
Ability Scores
- Dexterity 16+ (AC via Unarmored Defense + attack)
- Wisdom 14+ (Unarmored Defense bonus, ki save)
- Constitution 14 (survivability)
- Strength 10, Intelligence 8, Charisma 8
Level Progression (Open Hand)
- Level 1: Unarmored Defense, Martial Arts (Bonus Action unarmed attack).
- Level 2: Ki, Flurry of Blows, Stunning Strike.
- Level 3: Way of the Open Hand — Open Hand Technique (prone, push, or status on Flurry hits).
- Level 4: +2 Dexterity or Mobile feat.
- Level 5: Extra Attack + Stunning Strike at +2 Ki.
- Level 6: Manifestation of Body (extra Flurry effects).
- Level 8: +2 Dexterity or Tavern Brawler (unarmed builds).
- Level 12: Maxed Dexterity.
Combat Loop
- Move into melee (Mobile lets you hit and retreat without Opportunity Attack).
- Attack → Flurry of Blows for 2 more unarmed strikes.
- Spend Ki on Stunning Strike to lock down enemy casters/bosses.
Key Notes
- Tavern Brawler (+1 unarmed damage, +1 Athletics) is a top-tier Monk feat.
- Stunning Strike scales with Wisdom save DC — keep Wisdom decent.
- Monks love Manifestation of Body synergy with Open Hand Technique.