Gale please....don't be like Shadowheart

OMG, you guys! I completely relate to the frustration of your favorite companions just NOT hitting anything in Baldur's Gate 3. It seriously feels like the game goes 'wild' with those dice rolls sometimes, especially when Gale or Shadowheart miss that crucial spell or attack. I’ve been there, screaming at my screen, wondering if my build is terrible or if the dice just hate me! So, I wanted to share some of my personal experiences and what I’ve picked up to try and tame that unpredictable combat beast. First off, it all comes down to the dice roll. In BG3, most attacks are decided by a d20 roll plus modifiers against an enemy's Armor Class (AC). A higher AC means a tougher target. For spells, it can be a Spell Attack Roll (similar to weapon attacks) or a Saving Throw (where the enemy rolls to resist your spell). Understanding this basic mechanic was my first step to sanity! I quickly learned that positioning and buffs are EVERYTHING. Standing on high ground? That often gives you an advantage, meaning you roll two d20s and take the higher result – a game-changer! Similarly, attacking from stealth or having an ally use a 'Help' action can provide advantage. On the flip side, being 'Blind' or 'Prone' gives disadvantage, making you roll two d20s and take the lower. I can't tell you how many times I've forgotten to check for these simple things and paid the price! Then there are all those amazing spells and abilities that can swing the odds. Bless from Shadowheart (or anyone else with it) is my absolute go-to. Adding a +1d4 bonus to attack rolls and saving throws for three allies? Yes, please! Conversely, enemies using Bane can give you a -1d4 penalty. Faerie Fire, another great spell, outlines enemies, giving advantage to all attacks against them. I’ve found that even small bonuses add up significantly in the long run. Don't forget about Elixirs too – Elixir of Savagery for an extra attack, or Elixir of Heroism for temporary HP and a +1d4 bonus to attack rolls! For Gale, as a wizard, his spells often rely on Intelligence for spell attack rolls and spell save DCs. If he’s missing a lot, I check his Intelligence score and any gear giving him a boost. For Shadowheart, as a Cleric, it's usually Wisdom. Making sure their primary casting stats are as high as possible is crucial. And let's be real, sometimes the game just wants to make you sweat. If you're finding combat particularly "wild" and merciless, don't be afraid to utilize things like Resting to get back spell slots or re-evaluate your party composition. Maybe you need another front-liner, or a specific crowd control spell. I also found that sometimes, just stepping back and scouting the area for environmental hazards or choke points can turn a losing battle into a win. Ultimately, while the dice rolls can make combat feel unpredictable, there are so many ways to tip the scales in your favor. It’s all about understanding the mechanics and using every tool at your disposal. So next time Gale or Shadowheart miss that critical hit, take a deep breath, check your modifiers, and strategize your way to victory! You got this, fellow gamer!