Baldurs Gate 3: Swarmkeeper Ranger

Is Swarmkeeper a good subclass in Baldur's Gate 3? On this guide page, we describe its most important features and advantages. You will learn about the types of swarms you can summon, as well as what kind of damage they can inflict and when they will be most useful. We also discuss the recommended strategy when playing as a Swarmkeeper Ranger.

• Who is the Swarmkeeper subclass designed for?
• Most important features of this subclass
• How to play as a Swarmkeeper?

Who is the Swarmkeeper subclass designed for?

1. The most important aspect of this subclass is that your Ranger can use nature's forces to their advantage and use swarms, which are capable of effectively attacking your enemies. There are several hives available, differing not only in appearance but also in the types of damage inflicted.
2. The following races are recommended: Forest Gnome, Dwarf and Strongheart Halfling.

Most important features of this subclass

1. The most important feat of the Swarmkeeper is Gathered Swarm, which allows you to summon 1 of 3 available types of swarms. In each round, the chosen swarm can support you in one of three possible ways.
2. The Prey's Scent feat at level 3 may allow for dealing more damage to those enemies on whom the Hunter's Mark has been used. At level 11, Mighty Swarm is unlocked, which allows the selected hive to deal more damage. Additionally, using a swarm to teleport increases the armor class until the end of the round.
3. The Legion of Bees swarm summons bees that can deal Piercing damage, repel enemies from a hero, and teleport your character.
4. The Cloud of Jellyfish swarm summons jellyfish that can deal Lightning or Shock damage as well as teleport your character. This swarm may be more useful in locations with water.
5. The Flurry of Moths swarm summons moths that can deal Psychic damage, blind your enemies and also teleport your character. In our opinion, this is the most useful swarm.
6. Writhing Currents are a resource unique to the Swarmkeeper subclass and it can be renewed only by a long rest (a short rest is not enough). It allows you to trigger the Writhing Tide action, thanks to which the swarm can lift you into the air.

How to play as a Swarmkeeper?

1. The most important traits of the Swarmkeeper subclass are Dexterity (armor class and damage dealt are crucial) and Wisdom. So, it doesn't really differ that much from other Ranger subclasses.
2. The recommended gameplay style is to engage in long-range combat. The Crossbow Expert feat may come in handy here as well. Crossbows are also the preferred weapons for a Swarmkeeper character. You can make the encounters easier by becoming invisible at the beginning of a battle - this will allow you to safely get closer to the enemies so they are within the range of a crossbow.
3. Use the offensive actions of a chosen swarm first. Ask the swarm for teleportation or use Writhing Tide when some enemies get too close to you and you might have to engage in close combat. The Swarmkeeper also has the Web spell, which can slow enemies down.

See also

1. Game guide
2. Ranger
3. Best Ranger spells
4. Recommended Ranger build

Baldur's Gate 3

August 3, 2023

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