In Baldur’s Gate 3 Act 1, players encounter a wide range of weapons, but quarterstaves stand out for their versatility and magical potential. These two-handed weapons are not only practical for melee combat but also enhance spellcasting when used by classes like Druids, Clerics, and Wizards. Choosing the best quarterstaff in BG3 Act 1 can significantly affect your early-game progression, offering both offensive and defensive advantages. Whether you prefer to lead from the frontlines or support your party from a distance, a well-chosen quarterstaff can elevate your build’s effectiveness and open up strategic possibilities.
Why Use a Quarterstaff in BG3 Act 1?
Versatility Across Classes
Quarterstaves are a popular weapon for multiple classes. They are especially useful for spellcasters due to their compatibility with abilities that rely on Wisdom or Intelligence. For example, Druids can use a quarterstaff while remaining in Wild Shape form, and Clerics can benefit from magical staves that boost healing or spell power.
- Ideal for support casters and hybrid builds
- Often come with useful magical enhancements
- Two-handed, but light enough for casters to equip comfortably
Boosts to Spellcasting
Some of the best quarterstaves in BG3 Act 1 come with enchantments that enhance spellcasting. Whether it’s increased spell save DC, bonus to spell attack rolls, or added elemental damage, these enhancements make quarterstaves invaluable tools for spell-focused characters.
- Improved spell effectiveness
- Enhanced concentration checks
- Elemental synergy with spell builds
Top Quarterstaffs to Find in BG3 Act 1
Staff of Arcane Blessing
This is easily one of the best quarterstaves in BG3 Act 1, especially for arcane spellcasters. The Staff of Arcane Blessing increases the potency of theBlessspell, giving bonuses to attack rolls and saving throws beyond the standard effect. It works particularly well on support characters who regularly use Bless on their party.
- Found in the Shattered Sanctum
- Grants Arcane Blessing passive
- Pairs well with Clerics and Bards
Staff of Crones
Ideal for offensive spellcasters, the Staff of Crones offers necrotic bonuses and is a great thematic fit for characters leaning into dark or nature-based magic. It offers an additional damage effect when dealing necrotic damage and fits perfectly with certain Druid and Warlock builds.
- Found by defeating Auntie Ethel in the Sunlit Wetlands
- Adds 1d4 necrotic damage to cantrips
- Great for offensive spellcasting builds
Quarterstaff +1
Though simple in name, the Quarterstaff +1 offers a solid early upgrade from base gear. It increases your melee damage and spell attack rolls slightly, making it ideal for anyone in need of a dependable, no-frills weapon. It’s easy to find and effective in a variety of situations.
- Available from merchants in the Druid Grove or looted from enemies
- Reliable enhancement to both physical and magical attacks
- Compatible with any quarterstaff-using class
Staff of the Moonmaidens
This elegant staff boosts radiant damage, making it ideal for Clerics or Paladins who favor light or healing domains. While not as flashy as some other staves, its synergy with radiant spells makes it a strong pick for divine casters early in the game.
- Located in the Underdark
- Boosts radiant spell damage
- Perfect for Light Domain Clerics
Where to Find These Quarterstaves
Exploration Rewards
Several quarterstaves can be found through thorough exploration of key areas in Act 1. Players who investigate side quests, hidden chambers, or mini-bosses often stumble upon powerful staves that enhance their builds dramatically. For example, Auntie Ethel’s lair hides the Staff of Crones, while the Shattered Sanctum contains multiple magical items including the Staff of Arcane Blessing.
- Sunlit Wetlands defeat Auntie Ethel
- Shattered Sanctum loot from powerful enemies
- Underdark search for magical artifacts and unique rewards
Merchant Sources
Some quarterstaves, like the Quarterstaff +1, are available for purchase from merchants in the Emerald Grove or in hidden camps across Act 1. Visiting traders regularly is a good way to spot rare magical items before they’re gone. Bartering and persuasion can also lower the cost.
- Check merchants after each major quest milestone
- Use characters with high Charisma for better deals
- Sell unused loot to build gold reserves
Best Classes for Quarterstaves in Act 1
Druids
Druids benefit greatly from quarterstaves due to their need for Wisdom scaling and melee fallback. Whether in Wild Shape or casting spells from range, quarterstaves suit their versatile toolkit. A magical quarterstaff can complement elemental spell choices or defensive builds.
Clerics
Clerics, particularly those of the Light or Life domain, find great value in quarterstaves that boost radiant damage or improve spell save DC. Since many of their spells revolve around healing and buffs, a staff that enhances spellcasting can increase their effectiveness across the board.
Wizards
While Wizards typically stay in the backline, quarterstaves that increase Intelligence or spell save DC give them more utility. A staff with a bonus to spell attack rolls or added elemental damage can amplify their offensive output significantly.
Warlocks
Though Warlocks usually favor ranged combat and Eldritch Blast, certain quarterstaves can complement builds that lean into melee or necrotic magic. The Staff of Crones, for example, offers additional necrotic damage that synergizes well with Hex or other debuff-focused spells.
Tips for Maximizing Quarterstaff Potential
Pair with Appropriate Armor
While most casters avoid heavy armor, light or medium armor that provides AC bonuses without penalizing spellcasting can pair well with a quarterstaff build. Look for armor that doesn’t interfere with your character’s main stats or casting ability.
Boost Casting Stats
Quarterstaves are most effective when your main spellcasting stat is high. Prioritize Wisdom for Druids and Clerics, and Intelligence for Wizards. Items that enhance these stats or increase concentration saves will further improve your spellcasting efficiency.
Use in Defensive Builds
Some quarterstaves also grant defensive benefits like resistance to elements or bonuses to saving throws. These features are particularly useful for frontline casters who may get caught in melee combat. Defensive enchantments can help your caster stay alive longer while still supporting the party.
Choosing the Best Quarterstaff in BG3 Act 1
Quarterstaves in Baldur’s Gate 3 Act 1 offer a balance of offense and utility, making them a valuable weapon choice for spellcasters and hybrid classes. The Staff of Arcane Blessing and Staff of Crones stand out for their powerful enchantments and early availability, while the Quarterstaff +1 provides a solid, reliable upgrade. Depending on your class and playstyle, the best quarterstaff might boost your spells, add elemental effects, or improve defensive capabilities. Exploring thoroughly, checking with merchants, and tailoring your build will ensure you get the most out of your quarterstaff in the early stages of BG3.