Baldur's Gate 3 Tiefling: The Complete Guide

Introduction

Tieflings, the enigmatic and alluring descendants of infernal heritage, play a captivating role in the world of Baldur's Gate 3. Their distinctive appearance, characterized by horns, tails, and a hint of otherworldly aura, sets them apart from other races. As you journey through the Forgotten Realms, your choice of a tiefling background can significantly shape your character's motivations, abilities, and overall gameplay experience.

Racial Traits and Abilities

All tieflings in Baldur's Gate 3 share certain inherent traits and abilities that define their racial identity:

• Infernal Legacy: Tieflings possess a connection to the Lower Planes, granting them resistance to fire damage and proficiency in the Infernal language.

• Darkvision: Their keen eyesight allows them to see in dim light and even in complete darkness.

  

• Thaumaturgy Cantrip: Tieflings can innately cast the Thaumaturgy cantrip, which enables them to perform minor magical effects such as making their voices louder or creating minor illusions.

Subraces and Backgrounds

Beyond their shared traits, tieflings can vary greatly in appearance, personality, and backstory based on their subrace and chosen background.

Subraces

Baldur's Gate 3 offers two subraces of tieflings:

• Asmodeus: These tieflings bear the mark of the Archdevil Asmodeus and are often lawful and cunning. They possess the ability to summon a Hellish Rebuke, dealing fire damage to nearby enemies.

• Mephistopheles: Associated with the Archdevil Mephistopheles, these tieflings are known for their intelligence and charisma. They can conjure a Cloud of Daggers, creating a hazardous area for opponents.

Backgrounds

Tieflings can also choose from various backgrounds, further defining their character's history and motivations:

• Criminal: Tieflings with this background are outcasts, often resorting to crime to survive. They gain proficiency in the Sleight of Hand and Stealth skills.

• Folk Hero: Tieflings who have emerged as symbols of hope for the oppressed gain advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks made to interact with commoners.

• Guild Artisan: These tieflings have mastered their craft, gaining proficiency in any three artisan's tools of their choice.

• Hermit: Having spent time alone, these tieflings have become introspective and wise. They gain proficiency in the Insight and Survival skills.

  

• Noble: Tieflings of noble lineage have a sophisticated upbringing, gaining proficiency in the History and Persuasion skills.

• Outlander: Growing up in the wilderness, these tieflings are skilled in navigating the natural world. They gain proficiency in the Animal Handling and Survival skills.

• Sage: Tieflings with a thirst for knowledge have pursued scholarly endeavors, gaining proficiency in two languages of their choice and the Arcana skill.

• Sailor: Tieflings who have braved the open seas are skilled mariners, gaining proficiency in the Athletics and Perception skills.

Building a Tiefling Character

When creating a tiefling character for Baldur's Gate 3, consider the following factors:

• Class: Tieflings can excel in various classes; however, they are particularly adept as warlocks, sorcerers, and rogues due to their innate Infernal Legacy and Thaumaturgy cantrip.

• Alignment: Tieflings are often associated with evil alignments due to their infernal heritage; however, it is not their destiny. They can align with any alignment based on their personal experiences and beliefs.

• Roleplaying: Embrace the unique personality traits and backstory associated with your character's subrace and background. Consider their motivations, values, and how they interact with the world.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Treating Tieflings as Evil: While many tieflings have an infernal heritage, it does not predetermine their alignment. Avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes.

• Overemphasizing Infernal Legacy: While the Infernal Legacy trait is valuable, it is not the sole defining characteristic of a tiefling character. Focus on developing their personality, backstory, and other abilities.

• Neglecting Subraces and Backgrounds: The subrace and background choices provide depth to your character. Take time to explore the options and select those that best align with your desired playstyle and character concept.

Step-by-Step Approach to Creating a Tiefling Character

1. Choose a subrace (Asmodeus or Mephistopheles).
2. Select a background from the available options.
3. Determine your character's alignment based on their subrace, background, and personal beliefs.
4. Select a class that complements your character's traits and background.
5. Develop your character's personality, motivations, and backstory.
6. Consider how your character's infernal heritage and other traits will impact their interactions with the world.

Pros and Cons of Playing a Tiefling

Pros:

• Unique Appearance: Tieflings stand out with their distinctive physical features, providing a memorable and visually appealing character.

• Versatility: Tieflings are adaptable to various classes and playstyles, offering flexibility in character creation.

• Infernal Legacy: Resistance to fire damage and proficiency in Infernal language offer valuable advantages in combat and interaction.

Cons:

• Prejudice: Tieflings may face prejudice or mistrust due to their infernal heritage, which can be a roleplaying challenge.

• Stereotyping: It can be challenging to avoid falling into stereotypes associated with tieflings' evil inclinations.

Conclusion

Tieflings in Baldur's Gate 3 offer a compelling character option with their enigmatic appearance, unique abilities, and diverse backgrounds. By understanding their racial traits, subraces, and backgrounds, you can create a well-rounded and immersive tiefling character. Embrace their complexities and explore the possibilities that await you in the Forgotten Realms.