Did you experiment with feats? You mention that monks can use Greatswords as monk weapons, as long as they are proficient. Can they make use of great weapon master? Also, how is stunning strike implemented?
You can use sharpshooter on your deflect missiles. That way you can stay as ranged and still take advantage of all of your actions. Way of four elements to AoE and just shoot everyone else.
"What is better, to be born good? Or to overcome your evil nature through great effort?" -Paarthurnax Playing Dark Urge either villain or trying to do good and resist temptation both sound like hella fun!
@@zwei3179 same! Sounds like such an interesting combination narratively. Also extra...resist the urge to Quick Save spam for choices haha. I'm gonna try and let the game play out naturally through choices, win or lose dice rolls
What is better is to not do evil at all, which is a conscious choice for everyone. But I guess people who choose evil have to explain away why they fail and hurt other people.
I really love that Larian has focused on each individual choice being able to be good or evil rather than focusibg on alignments like in BG1&2. It feels much more realistic and interesting to me!
i prefer alignment over "each indivual choice", cause it simply makes zero sense to be good and helping one old lady one minute, and then murdering a second old lady you come across after. xD
@@mermidion7552 Sounds a bit like some chaotic neutral interpretations. That is how an insane person would act. The real problem would be in believing anyone would trust such a random and dangerous person.
the second they revealed the dark urge, i knew it was going to be my first playthrough, Half-orc brawler (a str based Monk/barb multi) that's just a good, decent and kind dude that just assumed that all those urges were intrusive thoughts that everyone has and ignores/resists them
Orc is such a great option for a Dark Urge because you can flavor that around the reason why people treat orcs as evil brutes and you think you're trying to overcome your very own nature, until you find the truth
I think one thing to consider as well that he doesn't mention in this video, is that you wont always be able to resist the urges. There was an article that came out a few days ago where someone else who got to try the game said that when playing dark urge, the game DOES kind of take over at times and will have you randomly killing people. They mentioned going to camp one night and waking up with a dead body near them and being covered in blood.
"You don't have to be bad" *Dark Urge kicks a squirrel to death* - And something tells me that won't be the first and last time the character does something fucked up w/o the ability to resist.
The squirrel will bite you unprovoked once and then twice potentially if you fail a check. Also the option to kick the squirrel using a DEX check is in the EA already so is that not what we are seeing? How do you know it is an uncontrolled urge?
@@TwoPercentViking Why? it was one of the funniest things i've seen in a very long time. It was so unexpected. I guess if you really want your character to be pure and good all of the time then yes DU is not for you. But it's an urge beyond your characters control so he is not evil. He just do evil things sometime.
@@MeldinX2 I don’t particularly find depictions of animal abuse funny to be honest, but you do you. Similarly I struggle to make choices that harm innocent people, but I guess that’s empathy for you. Of course, I’m sure your response will be “but it’s not real”. But depictions of these things when you are immersed in some form of entertainment can still evoke feelings of sadness, happiness, guilt, and anger.
"They don't wanna play an evil character" After playing Pathfinder WOTR as a demon and lich, an evil play through is gonna be the first thing I do. They tend to have the best stories.
WOTR Lich path was the worst playtrough i have even played in any game since i starting my gaming life in 1990, also devil mystic was mid and could no finished before quit the game at all. Thanks good i played Angel, azata and Aeon before those trash mystic class.
I was thinking of playin WOTR? Is it that good? I play kingmaker and DOS 2 currently playing BG3 early access, what i dont like about pathfinder is the fighting mechanics maybe im more of turn based kind of guy rather than real time paused
@@Killerz980both kingmaker and wrath have turn based modes now and wrath I had a blast in I played and beat it so many times so much replayability with all the mythic paths
I think people will play the dark urge. Sounds like you can play a villain but also sounds like you dont have to, you can instead play an anti-hero, and everyone loves an anti-hero
Anti-heroes are not self righteous fanatics or douchebags. They do sort of scummy things but every once in a while you catch a glimpse of their humanity, something good still left in them. I think that's how most people view themselves and that's why it tends to resonate a lot more than your traditional captain marvel "can do no wrong ever powerful hero" sorta thing.
"You don't really lose anything" Judging by the squirrel moment in the footage, and some other stuff I've read about the Dark Urge, it looks like you do lose control of your character at some points. I think the idea of losing control and dealing with the consequences is interesting, but that is not how I'd like to play my first character. Also, you lose some control over the role-playing aspects of your character. People might not want to play an amnesiac, or they might envision a specific background for their character, whereas the Dark Urge is basically like letting the DM write your character's backstory for you. So yeah, I think there are still plenty of reasons no to pick the Dark Urge.
Exactly! I loved the character, plan on doing both good and evil characters as the Urge, but first run still going to be as good ol' Tav. I need to have at least one "unbiased" experience with the game before starting to put the origins' stuff on top of it
Yup. I'm one of those boring people that always roleplay first playthrough in rpg as myself because I want to discover the game in my own perspective and make my own choice. I will save Dark Urge for 2nd or 3rd playthrough when I'm playing as evil character.
The dark urge seems really cool. Almost like it's a custom character with some flavor embedded in it. And it's fun for me because I love playing Warlocks with the idea that maybe you have to constantly fight urges/impulses as a result of your deal, and it just feels like it could be a good fit for that. Granted, the dark urge has nothing to do with being a warlock obviously, but it still just feels like a great inner-conflict narrative like that.
A Dark Urge Paladin playthrough sounds awesome either way you play it. Resist the temptation with the power of your faith or give in and become a ruthless oathbreaker.
So dark urge would be like Fane in DOS2. Fane had a very unique story that was interwoven into the main campaign more than the other origin characters and often times got very hilarious.
@@JB-xl2jcevery time you resist it will make you do harder and harder willpower rolls. If you don't give in at some point you're just going to have a thing where you go to camp and are surrounded by dead bodies when you wake up. Fun for a second play-through, I think, but role-playing is typically about your choices, and when those choices aren't necessarily yours that can muck up the experience.
For those wondering, in case it hasn't already been said: when you "run into them" while paying other paths, you find their corpse. Specifically in the Chosen of Bhaal's sanctum in Act 3.
I adore the idea of the dark urge on a good playthrough. Something compels you to evil, but it's not what you want. Delicious. Could be a good way to be more empathetic to your more 'evil' companions too without being entirely evil.
I always play good characters. I just don't enjoy playing bad folks. So, I am very much looking forward to playing this character. Playing against your urges sounds great, and I look forward to the inevitable reaction that the game will have for it.
This background will make it far more enjoyable to play a good character for me. I only hope you will get something from this background(like that fancy cloak) even while actively resisting it. Hell I can easily see an evil character resist most of it too! After all where is fun in zoning out and losing control instead of saviouring the kills with sober mind?
@@chillax319 Just adding here too, because he didn't mention it much in the video and I have no idea how much people are aware. You WILL blackout and murder people/do evil things without being able to resist them as Dark Urge. Others who were able to try the game have reported that the game does take over for you at times and will have you commit evil acts without being able to resist them. Things like going to camp and waking up covered in blood with dead bodies next to you. I think it still sounds like a fun/interesting Origin and look forward to it, just that its good to be aware you can't resist it every time.
I want to play an evil character but that does not mean I just walk around murdering. This urge to kill feels like it is not you but something else making the decision so it is less player agency. Also, I would like to have some of my companions alive by the end of the adventure 😆 Dark Urge is probably going to be my second playthrough.
"No reason not to play a Dark Urge" Dark Urge takes away a roleplay from a rpg, his background is predetermined, so if you have an idea for a character of your own in mind, it may contradict with where the Dark Urge will take you. It`s a defined character, with only 2 paths, most likely - to further damnation or redemption, but that`s it. Tav gives you much wider freedom for a character background, ideals, interests. We had a "Baldurian" tag in EA, so it`s very likely there will be more tags - and dialogue options - for Tav too, it`s a shame Larian didn`t even mentioned to tell us about those during panel from hell. But they did mentioned that Urge is not for the faint of heart... so it`s mostly for murderhobos.
Agreed. I'm not sold on Dark Urge for first playthrough. Baldurian, Githyanki, and Lolth-Sworn Drow are all tags open to custom Tavs that already play substantially different from each other in Early Access. They've covered it a bit in earlier Panels, so the focused on the new. Dark Urge certainly seems like a new story added to persuade the holdouts who were dissatisfied with the seemingly lack of a "strong connection" to the BG1 & BG2 narrative.
I’m STARVING for the full release. Been playing since day one. A daily video would be great, else I may not make it. Ps, can’t wait for you Avowed videos! Deadfire is one of my all time games, and your build videos are how I found the channel. You showed that game the love it deserved.
Hey, I know this is random as hell, but since you really like Deadfire I felt I might get a good answer here. I've been trying to get through PoE 1 for... years now. I always get bored of the combat system (really not a fan of Real Time with Pause) but I dig the story. I noticed they implemented actual turn based combat in Deadfire which got me pretty hype to try it but I still have to finish PoE 1. What do you think of *that* game? Is it worth it to try and push through to the end even if I don't really care for the gameplay?
@@GeeGe. I get you. The combat is much improved in the sequel. I skipped PoE until after I finished deadfire. And that was fine! And yea, the turn based is a lot of fun. I recommend it!
Crouching Tiger, Raging Monk I'm curious to see what they do to make pure Monk to 12 feel good, worst case you can pump in a bunch of levels, then dip into like Barbarian Berserker or something. The super Angry Monk that catches and reflects projectiles, then flings an Axe at you with the power to sever heads from across the map, or gets up close and shows you true pain.
I'm suddenly interested in playing a Dark Urge Halfling Rogue/Monk. The idea of a cute little kid-sized person, playing with daggers, having twisted thoughts, and turning invisible every time he kills something really appeals to me. Although I don't know if I will be able to make myself play a halfling, I NEVER play halflings, especially in melee combat. Maybe a Halfling Dark Urge Druid.
I plan on playing a monk, I've always like monks thematically and any improvements that I've heard about to the class are a welcome bonus. That being said, I'll probably stay away from way of the four elements. It is notoriously bad in TT. Sad to see that the way of mercy monk didn't make it into the game (my personal favorite) but since its from a supplementary book I wasn't going to hold my breath. Can't wait to see all the unique animations for monk and any monk specific magic items.
Way of the Four Elements does thirst for more Ki, but that alleviates over time. The Active ability that restores half your ki per short rest is extremely helpful. But i think the true marvel of Four Elements is how easily you can set up your own combos (eg, frost, fire -> wet condition -> lightning abilities, etc.) Especially when you combine that with Domain of the Tempest cleric level 2 passives for thunder / lightning damage, which i did. I also did one point in sorcerer for the increased armor class, and the frost armor spell (which i can't remember what it's called right now). The nice thing about Way of the Four Elements is that their last subclass anything is unlocked at level 9. And then level 10+ monk isn't super necessary. There are no feats, etc. It's just some movement speed increase. So you can spend those three points for really anything.
I think that from a RP standpoint. Dark urge is as the name suggests. A dark background, rather a necessarily evil character. Even if you have no memories of your past. The reason that I can see to perhaps not play this origin. Is to create your own background. Or to play a character, who does not have murderous intent. That's why I don't quite agree that Dark Urge is gonna always be the better alternative to playing the other Origin characters.
HaaahaaahAaaah. Well, I'm convinced. I saw him kick that fricken squirrel and turn him to paste. That's enough to sell me. Your comments on the dark urge make sense too. This was such a brilliant addition by Larian. The name is right there on the nose and everything. They did something we've all wanted to do in games for forever. I mean... who hasn't wanted to impale a child from skyrim or a plethora of other games. They mouth off at you knowing you cant do anything about it. Well this game instead of mocking you and mechanically blocking you from doing anything lets you succumb to that dark urge to kick the smart mouthed squirrel. I cant wait to try this out. I mean i always try to play the good character in games, but this seems like the first time it will be truly challenging as they actually let you perform the horrible things you sometimes would do but arent allowed to even in a game. And thats amazing.
Awesome content! Thanks for the rundown on Monk. I am still on the fence about playing Dark Urge, mostly because my first playthrough will be with my partner with Karlach and Halsin as our companions. It will be a proper good guys playthrough, so I'm scared Dark Urge might mess things up if I fail some saving throws to resist some urges..
@@Marc_4 Nah, playing Dark Urge on playthrough 1 will give you the best Dark Urge playthrough, sorta how Wretch sorta loses its luster on a 2nd playthrough in Elden Ring. I'd say the best Dark Urge playthrough would be a playthrough where you don't know the ins and outs of anything we haven't seen in Early Access, because part of the Dark Urge is the not knowing aspect, so it'll ruin it if you know too much of the game, the same way that knowing where certain loot is in Elden Ring ruins a Wretch playthrough since the whole not knowing / adapting your build to what you pick up aspect of Wretch instead of leaning toward one thing or another is most of the appeal.
Nah, go for it. I'm going to be doing a Dark Urge playthrough with my friend who hasn't even touched Baldur's Gate yet. Part of Dark Urge is the unknown aspect, so if you've already played through the game, I feel it'll lessen the experience. You won't get that full and true Dark Urge experience if you aren't going into areas blind and fresh. Larian even specifically said that the first playthrough is the best time to Dark Urge.
Dark Urge reminds me of the Spirit Eater mechanic in NWN2: MotB. You could either resist it, or give into it, and it'd open up different pathways and powers depending on your choices. Monk was one of my favorites in BG2. They were really good, fast moving, good damage, tanky due to AC and high Magic Resistance, and generally versatile.
I played a shadow monk on the tabletop and it was so much fun. I loved using Pass Without Trace to help the whole party set up ambushes. I hope it proves just as useful in this game. I plan on doing two runs when I get my new PC: a co-op run with a buddy, and a solo run where I can play around with the Dark Urge options. >:D
Even as a good/neutral character I think I'm going to have plenty of fun with this origin. Our butler looks totally trustworthy too! Also I'm happy to see that urge can be used to harm bad guys I was sure that it's going to be a bait that Larian will use to tempt good characters to give in into that brutality of the urge. I mean the best way to make a player pick a Dark Urge option would be to introduce us to someone really likeable just for them to be hurt horribly by some badies....and being able to get to the badies in question. That'd be most likely the first time for a good character to choose Dark Urge option out of their own will. Also I really hope you can still recruit Gale after you chop his hand off and he doesn't simply dies. It'd be hillarious to be able to do it and have to deal with that small bump in your relationship with him.
I really like this, going around doing good dude stuff, them someone comes thinking they are the bad guys only to find out you were the true monster all along
I won't play them in my first playthrough as my favorite part of dnd is crafting a character and their story. So my Tav the way I imagined their background. The dark urge seems to have a defined backstory in regards to the stuff we saw in blood in Baldur's gate so it would negatively impact my role-playing experience. Will defo do dark urge as my second playthrough to experience their story and I'm excited to see it
Glad you played a Dragonkin Monk. When Runes of Kunark came out for EQ, the first character I made was an Iksar Monk which was very similar in color to the one you made. Going to be playing the same on August 3rd :)
Playing The Dark Urge as Oathbreaker paladin would be fun. I think that it'll be my first playthrough. Edit: Or any paladin really. Trying to supress the urges as a paladin would bring a whole lot of role play experience
Рік тому+2
I was thinking the same. Paladin would be really great thematically. Also vengeance paladin would be great aswell
I'm planning on playing dark urge as oath of vengeance. So my character will be able to unleash vengeance on my enemies, but maybe feel uneasy about how far they go. And then maybe that will slowly bleed into mistreating everyone. Basically the slippery slope of vengeance into pure hatred.
The Four Elements Monk is meant to be multi-classed with a caster class like Sorcerer or Warlock. As it will allow you to essentially cast two spells per turn. While simultaneously not being a push-over if you get an enemy that closes on you and is in your face. Think of the core Monk features as a backup or safety net for when things go wrong. And otherwise, think of yourself as a ranged caster first. You trade out spell progression for the ability to cast two spells a turn without using quicken spell. And gain some survivability to boot with an otherwise squishy caster class. I personally can't wait to play a Shadow Monk/Assassin Rogue. That's what my Githzerai character I love to play always goes. A shame that Githzerai aren't in the game. Especially considering the focus on the Planar war between Illithid and the Gith race.
you still need to spend ki points right? so multiclassing will give you less ki points while only giving you 1st or 2nd levels spells, might be still fine with a warlock to use EB as your 2nd spell though?
@@Chris3s Yes, you'd need to spend Ki points for the Monk reaction casting. But, as you picked up on. If you go with Warlock, then you don't need to worry as much about losing out on higher level spells. Since your bread and butter is your cantrip. You can also go with the new subclass of Warlock for more melee ability. And make yourself a very well-rounded character with melee and spellcasting abilities. With the Monks mobility and utility. We'll have to wait and see if unarmed can be used with the new Warlock subclass as their chosen weapon for their abilities. If not, then may have to find a suitable Monk weapon to work with it.
Amazing video. Your DOS2 build guides made that game so enjoyable. I'll be looking out for your warlock build and I'll do my first play through as the dark urge
I like how Larian has taken small liberties with the rules. Much of the classes, down to weapons, play a lot better than how it would often play in table rules. Seeing this, I've finally started to understand why people often say they prefer 3.5 or pathfinder to 4e and 5e.
Your coverage of the game is astonishing. Wonderful, and has helped me understand and get excited for so much. I loved DOS2, but after 100+ hours, never finished. I am excited to tackle this with a bit more regularity with my friends. We will be among those who take a year or more to get through this game!
People talking about dark urge just reminds me of people talking about playing wretch their first play through of Elden ring. Don’t listen to what other people say, just play whatever sounds good to you. It is after all an rpg and if you don’t want to play a character with evil thoughts intruding in your dialogue then don’t.
I was thinking of playing a happy go lucky halfling bard, and doing Dark Urge as a second playthrough, but I think you've convinced me to do it first with the bard.
lol same! halfling bard! but i still have some doubt on picking dark urge because i get the feeling the challenge of resisting will get harder and harder
@skyblue6092 that's interesting though. Being a super cheery halfling that just wants to play music and help people, that occasionally goes way too hard on some bad guys. Lol
I also wanna do a happy little bard, and have them resist the dark urge! Trying to hide their dark secrets, while still trying to do good. I think, since Larian gives so many options to play how you want to play, I think it could be really fun. (Hoping so!)
Ya when i saw the dark urge on the panel I instantly got the feeling that it was the kind of Canon way to play the game. kind of felt like if you wanted to get the most out of the story you should play it since you don't lose anything for not playing it but you gain a lot for playing it if that makes sense.
Dude I play through multiplayer session where my friends shares my cloak amongst us lmao. I told them choose dark urge! Get all the mantles! But some wanted to be astarian and others gale lol. I suffer for my team
I feel like a monk/druid multiclass would be pretty cool. Like, you could become a literal kung-fu panda--in theory, at least. I'm not sure how well this would work in practice in BG3.
Assuming you aren't restricted from using ki points whilst wildshaped, or if you get your bonus unarmed strike. Otherwise it might conflict more than a druid/barb multiclass. Definitely worth a try, though! With full respecs available relatively early (I'd assume it'll have a similar cost as resurrecting party members), it allows for interesting combos.
I didn't even know this dark urge thing was a thing. I hope it's implemented well. If so, I could definitely see going that route on my first playthrough. Sounds perfect for a way of the shadow monk. So many of our favorite characters have this to some extent, but constantly wrestle with it and overcome it. I hope it's that fleshed out, and it's not just that you end up being a one-dimensional murderous POS no matter how hard you fight it.
Dark urge is such a great idea. I’m not really a fan of origin characters, I don’t mind them but I personally would rather see their stories from an outside perspective and really learn their characters. But on the other hand I also sort of like the idea of having a backstory to uncover. I never play evil characters I just can’t seem to do it lol every time I end up making the “good” choice, but I’m really considering playing dark urge my first play through instead of a custom Tav which was my original plan. I can see it now, falling in love with shadowheart and she helps me curve my dark urges lmao the story writes itself here
It's going to make good playthrough even more rewarding to me. I plan to play the game as a dragonborn dragonblooded sorcerer(well that's a mouthfull) that will be good/chaotic good. Needles to say my character will not be happy about his urges...tadpole seems like a lesser problem in such a case especially since it's not transforming him into Illythid normally. Also that butler demon(I'm pretty sure it's a demon) seems like will be a funny guy to talk to.
I don't think Shart will help you become good. Even though she does approve of some good deeds she prefers evil ones and doesn't like getting invovled with other creatures unless there is a benefit to her cause
I wasn't planning on playing dark urge my first playthrough, especially since it's be with my sister and her fiancee. You've convinced me to do so otherwise, pair that with the fact I plan to play paladin and I think it's gonna be an interesting run.
There's no way I'm not going to play as the Dark Urge, but your honesty about what it means and entails, as well as your personal experiences only reinforced my plan.
I need a companion video. Especially because Larian remade Wyll, and I used to hate him. I want to know what changed. Also, what are those horns on Wyll at 13:31 ?
TBH, I’ve never been able to complete a rpg as a chaotic evil characters, because senseless brutality for the sake of suffering another being is just impossible for me. A lawful evil character however… It’s nice to know there are choices for Dark Urge.
Dark Urge will be my first play through, I want to be a crazy person. When I played SWTOR, I played a completely dark side Sith Sorceress and that was the most fun I ever had, she would shock everyone and maniacally laugh at their pain😂 this Dark Urge seems like it would play and act the same.
A good way to push more people to do an evil playthrough is to make a achievement centered around it. I've only done a evil playthrough once and that was throughout the ME series on insanity
To be completely fair, Renegade in Mass Effect isn't even all that evil in my opinion. Yes, you're definitely a jerk many times, but you're still achieving good things if I recall correctly? I'd much rather play that than the actual evil path that some RPGs present (which is not criticism, it's cool that the option is there, all I'm saying is I personally don't actually enjoy making fake people miserable for no reason lol)
Mass Effect doesn't really have an 'evil' playthrough, outside of occasionally being a space racist. There is good boi hero(Paragon) and asshole hero(Renegade), but you are still a hero who saves the day.
I think people haven't really thought about 3 lvls of Rogue Thief for the second bonus action. Sorcerer for more spells, Paladin for more smite spells, and now Monk for more attacks.
What would you use your 2 bonus actions on as a sorc? And you would lose 3 metamagic points (and spells, a feat, and more) for that? It sounds indcredibly bad to me to be honest.
@@timm8998 Quicken Spell for a third leveled spell in a turn. It is costly a total of 6 sorcery points, so need to be at least 6th level in Sorc to even do it. Could be good nova damage. Also 3 lvls in rogue gets you expertise in 2 skills and cunning action.
@@geoffreysherman609 Unless the rules are different in BG3, which they might be, you can't cast more than one levelled spell in a turn. I didn't play Sorcerer enough in EA to get to that point.
@@ManlyPicnics You can. It does differ from 5th in that way. As does Thief getting a second bonus action, Wyll being able to wield a rapier as a warlock(though I think he will be a blade lock so it sorta fits).
I am new to the DND experience. Ever since the reveal of Bg3 I’ve been getting into this lore and world more so. I understand table top mechanics to some degree but there are definitely more nuances and just more to it in general that I am understanding with this game. So I appreciate your information fex in this area as a new player and a very excited player at that . I absolutely think this game will be game of the year as well, and probably one I will be playing for years to come. The insane amount of authentic immersive detail from the world to the characters two player interactions like with the romances, etc., it is insane to me. It just feels more genuine. It’s not more innovative than any game before it and that’s freaking awesome. I’m curious about the dark urge more, but especially from the standpoint of multiple Playthru’s. Obviously, there are options and choices that are available to you with the dark urge that are not if you are not playing as this character otherwise… But I’m curious if you can steal choose bad choices so to speak, even if you’re not the dark urge. I take the approach to this game and world to be one of morally Grey, just in general, so I would assume you could still choose bad outcomes, but the dark urge just allows for different kinds of bad outcomes that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise? If that makes sense . Also, I’m a little foggy on the difference between warlock and wizard and sorcerer. That could be my own ignorance obviously but I would like to better understand the differences between these classes which I’m sure you’ll get to and some videos in the future here so I’m looking forward to that. Thx Fex! Exciting adventure/experience to come💯💪🏻
Wizards learn magic through study and practice and use intelligence to cast. They have access lots of spells but can only prepare a certain amount per day. They also specialize in a specific category, or "school", of magic, like necromancy, evocation (damaging spells), abjuration (defensive spells) and others. Sorcerers, on the other hand, are born with magic and use it instinctively, therefore their spellcasting ability is charisma. They don't prepare spells, but rather pick a smaller number that are always available, provided they have the spell slots. They can also change how their spells are cast via various metamagics. Warlocks are a bit different in a number of ways. First, they get their magic via a contract with a patron, like a demon, Cthulhu or other entity of immense power. Like the sorcerer, their spellcasting ability is charisma. They have way fewer spell slots, but have access to a cantrip known as "Eldritch Blast", which is quite strong and some very unique and powerful spells. They also have special abilities known as "invocations", which allow them to do various things, including buffing Eldritch Blast. In addition, they also tend to be more capable in a melee fight than the other two.
Thanks for the Monk breakdown! In 5E, wearing armor as a monk "turns off" their Martial Arts features (attacks using DEX, the damage die replacement on unarmed and monk weapon attacks, and the bonus action attack) Do you remember from your playtime if this is still the case?
I'm definitely conflicted here. I'd love to have the extra story beats from the DU origin but I just feel like I might not vibe with the evil bits being lightly pushed on me from an RP perspective. I would definitely jump into it fully though if I knew there was some sort of great payoff for resisting the urges and being a good aligned character, (kinda akin to Revan "turning" good in KOTOR) but I worry that the only way you'll really get a satisfying story with this origin is by being evil.
"Theres no reason to not play the Dark Urge" I wanna play a Paladin, and I feel like playing the Dark Urge would send me down the path of Oathbreaker. Like that squirrel killing definitely goes against the Oath of the Ancients, right?
Or you know, add more RP opportunities by holding fast to your oath and not giving in to said urges. Jeeze I feel like everyone reads this origin as if you have no autonomy.
I feel like you can squeeze a Vengeance Paladin into TDU, extracting visceral punishment against your targets. But for Ancients or Devotion, I don't think it quite fits.
Well assuming they fix a lot of the bugs struggling with the oath could be fun roleplay wise. The juxtaposition of an inherently evil person doing their best to be good
You don't have to kill the squirrel. In the Rock Paper Shotgun preview they said they chose the Dark Urge labelled choice to 'Go and say hello to the squirrel' and it led to that. Basically don't pick any actions labelled [Dark Urge] no matter how innocuous and you won't accidentally murder someone. But yeah I think it will be tricky.
I’m still waiting to roll dark urge; mainly because I want to have a more default blank-slate character first; before jumping into the supposed RP heaviness of that origin. Though; I am excited about the potential for a good playthrough with this constant battle in the mind, overcoming an evil route in game.
I'm sad that four elements has the same issues as it does in the table top. Hoping they fix it before launch. Would rather they were just 1/4 casters like the Eldritch Knight but with like a really limited spell list.
I'm definitely going dark urge, it just sounds like the PC specific origin, and without it, you're just playing a character with less built in story. It's sounds like it's not just the evil character, but like an evil character trait you can either embrace or fight against. Hopefully they expand on that system and add more player origins if they do any expansions or DLCs in the future. I imagine a Gollum-esque trait where you fight against an alternate side of your personality. Failed dice rolls at important dialogue choices could let your alternate side pick a random option (or an option that generally goes against what you would choose, if Larian can figure that out) swaying the story, but out of your control.
Man...glad I watched this...was thinking about dark urge...wasn't going to do it but your comparisson to RL and dark thoughts and decisions...totally made sense from RP perspective. Let the urge come...I'll try to fight it 😮 Cheers mate!!
I think people who want to play Urge as a good guy, on their first playthrough just thinking it's Tav + extra dialogue options don't know what they're signing up for lol. Like you said, playing on hard mode narratively.
I absolutely love playing an evil character put in a situation where they're tasked with doing good or a good character struggling with dark temptations. Much more engaging to me than playing a relatively straight-laced character with solely good intentions.
"Any weapon that you have proficiency in." You just made the biggest fucking smile paint across my face lmao. As someone who has never played DND before, I saw the monk preview and was like "Oh hey that looks cool" but while reading the monk class from 5e out of curiosity I was like "Wait I can't have a big fuck-off axe? Daaaaaaangit"
he's incorrect, Monk weapons are only anything you have proficiency in that do not have heavy or two handed tags. all other tags are fine including versatile
In the panel from hell they mentioned adding a new ability to Shadow Monk that allowed them to teleport instantly to an enemy and deal extra psychic damage to them. Did you get to use that ability, and can you provide any more details on it?
Oh god... Breaking Alfira's lute is so EVIL. I got to love Larian's effort to put in the most horrible POS alignment choice after I had such a mushy neutral good playthrough. What class/race combo would be the most lore-friendly for Dark Urge? A Drow Warlock?
Yes but with dark urge im guessing some things happen where you DONT get a choice- its scripted- and ive heard it gets harder to resist as the game goes on- implying you have to pass ability checks or something like that to NOT do the bad stuff.. I might still play it on a later playthrough but probably not the first. p.s im curious are all the 'urges' to do with blood and killing and violence etc or other sorts of evil behaviours too?
Yeah I was worried about playing the dark urge for a while, but when I realized it wasn’t just a murder hobo origin and you can resist the urges, I figured that would be way more interesting to play than just a normal generic custom character
A quote from a Eurogamer article that went up today: "...at certain points, The Dark Urge will take over your character and make you do horrendous things that will change your playthrough irrevocably."
It's great, my first playthrough as Dark Urge will be fighting every urge and trying my best to overcome. Second DU run, I will be the worst thing to ever happen to Faerûn lol
@Fextralife. I was curious, have Larian done any Homebrewing when it comes to the Dragonborn? Like giving them Darkvision, and/or making their Breath Weapon/Elemental Resistances better?
I'm glad you don't have to do evil things because that makes me excited to play the Dark Urge in my first playthrough. My main dnd character is an anti-hero, an Oathbreaker that isn't out there killing innocent people, but will absolutely be violent towards people she thinks deserve it. I think The Dark Urge will fit her well since she's not always nice.
You will have to. Kicking the squirrel into the tree had no options, and waking up next to people you murdered also isn't an option. You will do fucked up shit as the DU.
Only found out about this game a couple months ago but it’s already a contender for GOTY for me, was really needing something to play since dragon age dreadwolf is a ways away
The reason not to play the Dark Urge is that the "urge for more stuff" is also not always great. Not everyone, myself included, wants to have a first or even second character, that is all about murder, dark impulses and edge. The option is great, and I am certain I will play the Dark Urge, but I really don't think the reasoning "Well, it is more content, so it is the best non-fixed origin option!" is sound in any way. Especially if you have a certain background for your character in mind. The Dark Urge is not a "Tav", they are still very much an Origin.
I have a theory about the dark urge, I don’t think it’s an actual character, I think it’s going to be more of a curse/possession. Where the urges you feel are not your character, but something else, makes me really want to play it to see what the story will be if I keep resisting.
I'm so excited for the release. Def going Dark Urge for my solo playthrough. Planning to do a co-op playthrough with friends, probably Gloom Stalker but I'm so curious about Monk, flavor wise it's such a cool class but I'm not a fan of the ki system in tabletop but from what I've seen and heard now I actually want to try it.
Dark urge for a first playthrough seems like a horrible idea unless you wanna play murder hobo. its pretty clear that its going to take over and mske horrible things happen at point regardless of what you do. its feels rather clear its an origin like the others and not just custom character with more dialogue options.
I think you will be forced to do horrible things some of the time. But i think at the end of the game you can resist and turn out a good character. Probably being able to defeat the evil that have you under its grips.
Question: since the dark urge has no memories, do we still have a choice of background or an imposed one, and if so, what does it give us? Edit: you can play a monk wielding SWORDS? Hell yeah!
The fact monk is good in this is basically an insta-play/buy for me personally Monks are like my fantasy when playing these games and they are almost never good. Supra excited.
I disagree about there being "no reason not to play the Dark Urge". Maybe you want to be a custom character, but you don't want to be randomly killing people outside of your own control all the time. Sure, you can resist, but it does seem like regardless your character is going to do some awful things without your input. Maybe you don't want your story to be about resisting those urges, maybe you just want to be the normal fantasy hero archetype. Maybe you want to be able to talk to a squirrel without your character brutally slaughtering it involuntarily. I'll stick with the original character, thanks much.
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OH! bigger action bar yes please!
How many KI points do monks have every level/ how are they calculated?
Since Larian mentioned they buffed monks somehow
You seem to have 3 KI points at lv 2 (17 HP) at 5:59.
So does this mean they doubled the KI point pool of monks to twice their level?
Did you experiment with feats?
You mention that monks can use Greatswords as monk weapons, as long as they are proficient. Can they make use of great weapon master?
Also, how is stunning strike implemented?
You can use sharpshooter on your deflect missiles. That way you can stay as ranged and still take advantage of all of your actions. Way of four elements to AoE and just shoot everyone else.
"What is better, to be born good? Or to overcome your evil nature through great effort?" -Paarthurnax
Playing Dark Urge either villain or trying to do good and resist temptation both sound like hella fun!
going for a oathbreaker paladin dark urge who wants to do better and not fall to evil
Well I know what I'm naming my dragonborn avenger paladin now
@@zwei3179 same! Sounds like such an interesting combination narratively. Also extra...resist the urge to Quick Save spam for choices haha. I'm gonna try and let the game play out naturally through choices, win or lose dice rolls
What is better is to not do evil at all, which is a conscious choice for everyone. But I guess people who choose evil have to explain away why they fail and hurt other people.
@@Necrostrike i think my evil acts will be small like quick twitches other then that the other evil acts I will do is against evil people
I really love that Larian has focused on each individual choice being able to be good or evil rather than focusibg on alignments like in BG1&2. It feels much more realistic and interesting to me!
while I like the alignments in DnD (and I adore BG 1 and 2), I agree with you on this one.
@@FlourEater Alignments in DND have always been a hot mess. And I go back to AD&D.
There are plenty of Neutral type choices too. I think people find those less interesting but its nice to know they are viable.
i prefer alignment over "each indivual choice", cause it simply makes zero sense to be good and helping one old lady one minute, and then murdering a second old lady you come across after. xD
@@mermidion7552 Sounds a bit like some chaotic neutral interpretations. That is how an insane person would act. The real problem would be in believing anyone would trust such a random and dangerous person.
the second they revealed the dark urge, i knew it was going to be my first playthrough, Half-orc brawler (a str based Monk/barb multi) that's just a good, decent and kind dude that just assumed that all those urges were intrusive thoughts that everyone has and ignores/resists them
THAT SOUNDS AMAZING. Hope you'll have a blast with it
Orc is such a great option for a Dark Urge because you can flavor that around the reason why people treat orcs as evil brutes and you think you're trying to overcome your very own nature, until you find the truth
🤌
I think one thing to consider as well that he doesn't mention in this video, is that you wont always be able to resist the urges. There was an article that came out a few days ago where someone else who got to try the game said that when playing dark urge, the game DOES kind of take over at times and will have you randomly killing people. They mentioned going to camp one night and waking up with a dead body near them and being covered in blood.
Are you going Con over Wis for your additional AC bonus?
PS. Sounds Bad Ass.
My first will be Rogue 1/ Monk (still undecided) 11
"You don't have to be bad" *Dark Urge kicks a squirrel to death* - And something tells me that won't be the first and last time the character does something fucked up w/o the ability to resist.
Definitely. There wasn't even any choice with that squirrel. Straight up kicked that poor critter.
Yeah the fact that you can't resist that sort of thing has put me off.
The squirrel will bite you unprovoked once and then twice potentially if you fail a check. Also the option to kick the squirrel using a DEX check is in the EA already so is that not what we are seeing? How do you know it is an uncontrolled urge?
@@TwoPercentViking Why? it was one of the funniest things i've seen in a very long time. It was so unexpected. I guess if you really want your character to be pure and good all of the time then yes DU is not for you. But it's an urge beyond your characters control so he is not evil. He just do evil things sometime.
@@MeldinX2 I don’t particularly find depictions of animal abuse funny to be honest, but you do you. Similarly I struggle to make choices that harm innocent people, but I guess that’s empathy for you.
Of course, I’m sure your response will be “but it’s not real”. But depictions of these things when you are immersed in some form of entertainment can still evoke feelings of sadness, happiness, guilt, and anger.
"They don't wanna play an evil character" After playing Pathfinder WOTR as a demon and lich, an evil play through is gonna be the first thing I do. They tend to have the best stories.
And not to mention, pletora of fun stuff you could do. Using evil-path only spell for example, maybe?
Me 2 👹
WOTR Lich path was the worst playtrough i have even played in any game since i starting my gaming life in 1990, also devil mystic was mid and could no finished before quit the game at all. Thanks good i played Angel, azata and Aeon before those trash mystic class.
I was thinking of playin WOTR? Is it that good? I play kingmaker and DOS 2 currently playing BG3 early access, what i dont like about pathfinder is the fighting mechanics maybe im more of turn based kind of guy rather than real time paused
@@Killerz980both kingmaker and wrath have turn based modes now and wrath I had a blast in I played and beat it so many times so much replayability with all the mythic paths
Monk has always been my favorite class and you definitely just convinced me to go dark urge I can't wait for the release
I think people will play the dark urge. Sounds like you can play a villain but also sounds like you dont have to, you can instead play an anti-hero, and everyone loves an anti-hero
Anti-heroes are not self righteous fanatics or douchebags. They do sort of scummy things but every once in a while you catch a glimpse of their humanity, something good still left in them.
I think that's how most people view themselves and that's why it tends to resonate a lot more than your traditional captain marvel "can do no wrong ever powerful hero" sorta thing.
venom, deadpool, punisher. yeah remind me of swtor light-side sith lord.
Yeah as a second pure evil playthrough
Dark Urge straight up kicked that squirrel. No choices popped up straight up kicked that poor critter.
@@Blockdigit Yeah, people keep saying you can resist the urges but stuff like this seems to happen and you have no control over it.
"You don't really lose anything"
Judging by the squirrel moment in the footage, and some other stuff I've read about the Dark Urge, it looks like you do lose control of your character at some points. I think the idea of losing control and dealing with the consequences is interesting, but that is not how I'd like to play my first character.
Also, you lose some control over the role-playing aspects of your character. People might not want to play an amnesiac, or they might envision a specific background for their character, whereas the Dark Urge is basically like letting the DM write your character's backstory for you.
So yeah, I think there are still plenty of reasons no to pick the Dark Urge.
Well said and captures my concerns regarding a first playthrough with the character as well :)
Exactly! I loved the character, plan on doing both good and evil characters as the Urge, but first run still going to be as good ol' Tav. I need to have at least one "unbiased" experience with the game before starting to put the origins' stuff on top of it
Yup. I'm one of those boring people that always roleplay first playthrough in rpg as myself because I want to discover the game in my own perspective and make my own choice. I will save Dark Urge for 2nd or 3rd playthrough when I'm playing as evil character.
But you choose when those outbursts happen
@@mr.j410 You don't always get that choice, as far as I can tell
The dark urge seems really cool. Almost like it's a custom character with some flavor embedded in it. And it's fun for me because I love playing Warlocks with the idea that maybe you have to constantly fight urges/impulses as a result of your deal, and it just feels like it could be a good fit for that.
Granted, the dark urge has nothing to do with being a warlock obviously, but it still just feels like a great inner-conflict narrative like that.
A Dark Urge Paladin playthrough sounds awesome either way you play it. Resist the temptation with the power of your faith or give in and become a ruthless oathbreaker.
It layers with Oathbreaker. Oathbreaker's can use their powers for good even though the source isn't.
Been debating on doing that or a dark urge Bard. The idea of being this whimsical little fella that is a spontaneous psychopath sounds very funny.
I'm a dark urge paladin oathbreaker :)
@@gummybootsSounds like Jhin from league of legends, pretty cool idea
"Invasive thought impulse control" is essentially what the Dark Urge is representing. I'm actually excited about that one 😅
So dark urge would be like Fane in DOS2. Fane had a very unique story that was interwoven into the main campaign more than the other origin characters and often times got very hilarious.
But playing Fane never forced you into doing aweful stuff, like kicking helpless animals...
@@Raoul9753it doesn't here either, you can choose to resist.
@@JB-xl2jcevery time you resist it will make you do harder and harder willpower rolls. If you don't give in at some point you're just going to have a thing where you go to camp and are surrounded by dead bodies when you wake up.
Fun for a second play-through, I think, but role-playing is typically about your choices, and when those choices aren't necessarily yours that can muck up the experience.
For those wondering, in case it hasn't already been said: when you "run into them" while paying other paths, you find their corpse. Specifically in the Chosen of Bhaal's sanctum in Act 3.
I adore the idea of the dark urge on a good playthrough. Something compels you to evil, but it's not what you want. Delicious. Could be a good way to be more empathetic to your more 'evil' companions too without being entirely evil.
I'm ready to jump into this game. Never played any in the series but can't wait to play this! Monk class is gonna be where I go.
I always play good characters. I just don't enjoy playing bad folks. So, I am very much looking forward to playing this character. Playing against your urges sounds great, and I look forward to the inevitable reaction that the game will have for it.
This background will make it far more enjoyable to play a good character for me. I only hope you will get something from this background(like that fancy cloak) even while actively resisting it. Hell I can easily see an evil character resist most of it too! After all where is fun in zoning out and losing control instead of saviouring the kills with sober mind?
If you're fine with having murdered a bunch of people (in DU's past) then go ahead!
@@chillax319 Just adding here too, because he didn't mention it much in the video and I have no idea how much people are aware. You WILL blackout and murder people/do evil things without being able to resist them as Dark Urge. Others who were able to try the game have reported that the game does take over for you at times and will have you commit evil acts without being able to resist them. Things like going to camp and waking up covered in blood with dead bodies next to you. I think it still sounds like a fun/interesting Origin and look forward to it, just that its good to be aware you can't resist it every time.
@@ABullock571 That's huge, thanks for sharing. Not a fan of that myself but it kinda makes sense
What is better? To be born good or to overcome your evil nature through great effort?
I want to play an evil character but that does not mean I just walk around murdering.
This urge to kill feels like it is not you but something else making the decision so it is less player agency.
Also, I would like to have some of my companions alive by the end of the adventure 😆
Dark Urge is probably going to be my second playthrough.
Exactly what im thinking and thank you for clarifying that it is possible. I want to play a good Dark Urge character for my first playthrough.
"No reason not to play a Dark Urge"
Dark Urge takes away a roleplay from a rpg, his background is predetermined, so if you have an idea for a character of your own in mind, it may contradict with where the Dark Urge will take you. It`s a defined character, with only 2 paths, most likely - to further damnation or redemption, but that`s it. Tav gives you much wider freedom for a character background, ideals, interests. We had a "Baldurian" tag in EA, so it`s very likely there will be more tags - and dialogue options - for Tav too, it`s a shame Larian didn`t even mentioned to tell us about those during panel from hell. But they did mentioned that Urge is not for the faint of heart... so it`s mostly for murderhobos.
Agreed. I'm not sold on Dark Urge for first playthrough.
Baldurian, Githyanki, and Lolth-Sworn Drow are all tags open to custom Tavs that already play substantially different from each other in Early Access. They've covered it a bit in earlier Panels, so the focused on the new. Dark Urge certainly seems like a new story added to persuade the holdouts who were dissatisfied with the seemingly lack of a "strong connection" to the BG1 & BG2 narrative.
I’m STARVING for the full release. Been playing since day one. A daily video would be great, else I may not make it.
Ps, can’t wait for you Avowed videos! Deadfire is one of my all time games, and your build videos are how I found the channel. You showed that game the love it deserved.
Hey, I know this is random as hell, but since you really like Deadfire I felt I might get a good answer here. I've been trying to get through PoE 1 for... years now. I always get bored of the combat system (really not a fan of Real Time with Pause) but I dig the story. I noticed they implemented actual turn based combat in Deadfire which got me pretty hype to try it but I still have to finish PoE 1. What do you think of *that* game? Is it worth it to try and push through to the end even if I don't really care for the gameplay?
@@GeeGe. I get you. The combat is much improved in the sequel. I skipped PoE until after I finished deadfire. And that was fine!
And yea, the turn based is a lot of fun. I recommend it!
Crouching Tiger, Raging Monk
I'm curious to see what they do to make pure Monk to 12 feel good, worst case you can pump in a bunch of levels, then dip into like Barbarian Berserker or something. The super Angry Monk that catches and reflects projectiles, then flings an Axe at you with the power to sever heads from across the map, or gets up close and shows you true pain.
Paladin oathbreaker/dark urge.
I mean they're built for each other and the stories of both mesh so well.
yea I wonder how fast you can break your oath playing dark urge
@@Pandarian300you can already do it pretty fast in EA.
I'm suddenly interested in playing a Dark Urge Halfling Rogue/Monk. The idea of a cute little kid-sized person, playing with daggers, having twisted thoughts, and turning invisible every time he kills something really appeals to me. Although I don't know if I will be able to make myself play a halfling, I NEVER play halflings, especially in melee combat.
Maybe a Halfling Dark Urge Druid.
You'll be everyone's friend to the end.
I plan on playing a monk, I've always like monks thematically and any improvements that I've heard about to the class are a welcome bonus. That being said, I'll probably stay away from way of the four elements. It is notoriously bad in TT. Sad to see that the way of mercy monk didn't make it into the game (my personal favorite) but since its from a supplementary book I wasn't going to hold my breath. Can't wait to see all the unique animations for monk and any monk specific magic items.
I think they changed way of the four elements in BG3 as well. Though i'm not sure what the changes are exactly
I always play renegade/evil characters when possible.
Awesome that this game lets me do that.
Way of the Four Elements does thirst for more Ki, but that alleviates over time. The Active ability that restores half your ki per short rest is extremely helpful.
But i think the true marvel of Four Elements is how easily you can set up your own combos (eg, frost, fire -> wet condition -> lightning abilities, etc.)
Especially when you combine that with Domain of the Tempest cleric level 2 passives for thunder / lightning damage, which i did.
I also did one point in sorcerer for the increased armor class, and the frost armor spell (which i can't remember what it's called right now).
The nice thing about Way of the Four Elements is that their last subclass anything is unlocked at level 9. And then level 10+ monk isn't super necessary. There are no feats, etc. It's just some movement speed increase.
So you can spend those three points for really anything.
I think that from a RP standpoint. Dark urge is as the name suggests. A dark background, rather a necessarily evil character. Even if you have no memories of your past. The reason that I can see to perhaps not play this origin. Is to create your own background. Or to play a character, who does not have murderous intent. That's why I don't quite agree that Dark Urge is gonna always be the better alternative to playing the other Origin characters.
HaaahaaahAaaah. Well, I'm convinced. I saw him kick that fricken squirrel and turn him to paste. That's enough to sell me.
Your comments on the dark urge make sense too. This was such a brilliant addition by Larian.
The name is right there on the nose and everything. They did something we've all wanted to do in games for forever. I mean... who hasn't wanted to impale a child from skyrim or a plethora of other games. They mouth off at you knowing you cant do anything about it. Well this game instead of mocking you and mechanically blocking you from doing anything lets you succumb to that dark urge to kick the smart mouthed squirrel.
I cant wait to try this out. I mean i always try to play the good character in games, but this seems like the first time it will be truly challenging as they actually let you perform the horrible things you sometimes would do but arent allowed to even in a game. And thats amazing.
Awesome content! Thanks for the rundown on Monk. I am still on the fence about playing Dark Urge, mostly because my first playthrough will be with my partner with Karlach and Halsin as our companions. It will be a proper good guys playthrough, so I'm scared Dark Urge might mess things up if I fail some saving throws to resist some urges..
Yeah, I would save Dark Urge for the second playthrough. Especially in multiplayer.
@Marc_4 that's what I'm planning to do yes, it's just too risky
@@Marc_4 Nah, playing Dark Urge on playthrough 1 will give you the best Dark Urge playthrough, sorta how Wretch sorta loses its luster on a 2nd playthrough in Elden Ring. I'd say the best Dark Urge playthrough would be a playthrough where you don't know the ins and outs of anything we haven't seen in Early Access, because part of the Dark Urge is the not knowing aspect, so it'll ruin it if you know too much of the game, the same way that knowing where certain loot is in Elden Ring ruins a Wretch playthrough since the whole not knowing / adapting your build to what you pick up aspect of Wretch instead of leaning toward one thing or another is most of the appeal.
Nah, go for it. I'm going to be doing a Dark Urge playthrough with my friend who hasn't even touched Baldur's Gate yet. Part of Dark Urge is the unknown aspect, so if you've already played through the game, I feel it'll lessen the experience. You won't get that full and true Dark Urge experience if you aren't going into areas blind and fresh. Larian even specifically said that the first playthrough is the best time to Dark Urge.
Dark Urge reminds me of the Spirit Eater mechanic in NWN2: MotB. You could either resist it, or give into it, and it'd open up different pathways and powers depending on your choices.
Monk was one of my favorites in BG2. They were really good, fast moving, good damage, tanky due to AC and high Magic Resistance, and generally versatile.
I played a shadow monk on the tabletop and it was so much fun. I loved using Pass Without Trace to help the whole party set up ambushes. I hope it proves just as useful in this game.
I plan on doing two runs when I get my new PC: a co-op run with a buddy, and a solo run where I can play around with the Dark Urge options. >:D
Yea. Definitly going to play this background on the second playthrough.
Even as a good/neutral character I think I'm going to have plenty of fun with this origin. Our butler looks totally trustworthy too! Also I'm happy to see that urge can be used to harm bad guys I was sure that it's going to be a bait that Larian will use to tempt good characters to give in into that brutality of the urge. I mean the best way to make a player pick a Dark Urge option would be to introduce us to someone really likeable just for them to be hurt horribly by some badies....and being able to get to the badies in question. That'd be most likely the first time for a good character to choose Dark Urge option out of their own will.
Also I really hope you can still recruit Gale after you chop his hand off and he doesn't simply dies. It'd be hillarious to be able to do it and have to deal with that small bump in your relationship with him.
I really like this, going around doing good dude stuff, them someone comes thinking they are the bad guys only to find out you were the true monster all along
I won't play them in my first playthrough as my favorite part of dnd is crafting a character and their story. So my Tav the way I imagined their background. The dark urge seems to have a defined backstory in regards to the stuff we saw in blood in Baldur's gate so it would negatively impact my role-playing experience.
Will defo do dark urge as my second playthrough to experience their story and I'm excited to see it
Glad you played a Dragonkin Monk. When Runes of Kunark came out for EQ, the first character I made was an Iksar Monk which was very similar in color to the one you made. Going to be playing the same on August 3rd :)
Fuck I haven't heard the term "ruins of kunark" for decades holy shit, that brings me back
@@leftovernoise we are old ;)
Playing The Dark Urge as Oathbreaker paladin would be fun. I think that it'll be my first playthrough.
Edit:
Or any paladin really. Trying to supress the urges as a paladin would bring a whole lot of role play experience
I was thinking the same. Paladin would be really great thematically. Also vengeance paladin would be great aswell
I'm planning on playing dark urge as oath of vengeance. So my character will be able to unleash vengeance on my enemies, but maybe feel uneasy about how far they go. And then maybe that will slowly bleed into mistreating everyone. Basically the slippery slope of vengeance into pure hatred.
The Four Elements Monk is meant to be multi-classed with a caster class like Sorcerer or Warlock. As it will allow you to essentially cast two spells per turn. While simultaneously not being a push-over if you get an enemy that closes on you and is in your face. Think of the core Monk features as a backup or safety net for when things go wrong. And otherwise, think of yourself as a ranged caster first. You trade out spell progression for the ability to cast two spells a turn without using quicken spell. And gain some survivability to boot with an otherwise squishy caster class.
I personally can't wait to play a Shadow Monk/Assassin Rogue. That's what my Githzerai character I love to play always goes. A shame that Githzerai aren't in the game. Especially considering the focus on the Planar war between Illithid and the Gith race.
you still need to spend ki points right? so multiclassing will give you less ki points while only giving you 1st or 2nd levels spells, might be still fine with a warlock to use EB as your 2nd spell though?
@@Chris3s Yes, you'd need to spend Ki points for the Monk reaction casting. But, as you picked up on. If you go with Warlock, then you don't need to worry as much about losing out on higher level spells. Since your bread and butter is your cantrip. You can also go with the new subclass of Warlock for more melee ability. And make yourself a very well-rounded character with melee and spellcasting abilities. With the Monks mobility and utility. We'll have to wait and see if unarmed can be used with the new Warlock subclass as their chosen weapon for their abilities. If not, then may have to find a suitable Monk weapon to work with it.
Your coverage of games is incredible.
Amazing video. Your DOS2 build guides made that game so enjoyable. I'll be looking out for your warlock build and I'll do my first play through as the dark urge
Dark urge reminds Bhaalspawn, you can be good but your nature is evil.
I like how Larian has taken small liberties with the rules.
Much of the classes, down to weapons, play a lot better than how it would often play in table rules.
Seeing this, I've finally started to understand why people often say they prefer 3.5 or pathfinder to 4e and 5e.
Your coverage of the game is astonishing. Wonderful, and has helped me understand and get excited for so much. I loved DOS2, but after 100+ hours, never finished. I am excited to tackle this with a bit more regularity with my friends. We will be among those who take a year or more to get through this game!
i was so sold on the dark urge character, until that squirrel scene
People talking about dark urge just reminds me of people talking about playing wretch their first play through of Elden ring. Don’t listen to what other people say, just play whatever sounds good to you.
It is after all an rpg and if you don’t want to play a character with evil thoughts intruding in your dialogue then don’t.
I was thinking of playing a happy go lucky halfling bard, and doing Dark Urge as a second playthrough, but I think you've convinced me to do it first with the bard.
lol same! halfling bard! but i still have some doubt on picking dark urge because i get the feeling the challenge of resisting will get harder and harder
@skyblue6092 that's interesting though. Being a super cheery halfling that just wants to play music and help people, that occasionally goes way too hard on some bad guys. Lol
I also wanna do a happy little bard, and have them resist the dark urge! Trying to hide their dark secrets, while still trying to do good. I think, since Larian gives so many options to play how you want to play, I think it could be really fun. (Hoping so!)
Dark Urge halfling or gnome is pretty funny.
Ya when i saw the dark urge on the panel I instantly got the feeling that it was the kind of Canon way to play the game. kind of felt like if you wanted to get the most out of the story you should play it since you don't lose anything for not playing it but you gain a lot for playing it if that makes sense.
I can’t stop thinking about the dark urge scene of just kicking the squirrel across the screen 😭
I feel gutted watching him smash Alfira's Lute
@@arandomcheese hey at least we now know what happen and how she responded because most of us here aint doing that lol
It was funny as shit though. xD
Dude I play through multiplayer session where my friends shares my cloak amongst us lmao. I told them choose dark urge! Get all the mantles! But some wanted to be astarian and others gale lol. I suffer for my team
I don’t want to play the dark urge because I don’t want to kill animals on sight
Man Fextralife is the best gaming channel imo..keep the good content coming. 👌
I feel like a monk/druid multiclass would be pretty cool. Like, you could become a literal kung-fu panda--in theory, at least. I'm not sure how well this would work in practice in BG3.
Assuming you aren't restricted from using ki points whilst wildshaped, or if you get your bonus unarmed strike. Otherwise it might conflict more than a druid/barb multiclass. Definitely worth a try, though! With full respecs available relatively early (I'd assume it'll have a similar cost as resurrecting party members), it allows for interesting combos.
I didn't even know this dark urge thing was a thing. I hope it's implemented well. If so, I could definitely see going that route on my first playthrough. Sounds perfect for a way of the shadow monk. So many of our favorite characters have this to some extent, but constantly wrestle with it and overcome it. I hope it's that fleshed out, and it's not just that you end up being a one-dimensional murderous POS no matter how hard you fight it.
Dark urge is such a great idea. I’m not really a fan of origin characters, I don’t mind them but I personally would rather see their stories from an outside perspective and really learn their characters. But on the other hand I also sort of like the idea of having a backstory to uncover. I never play evil characters I just can’t seem to do it lol every time I end up making the “good” choice, but I’m really considering playing dark urge my first play through instead of a custom Tav which was my original plan. I can see it now, falling in love with shadowheart and she helps me curve my dark urges lmao the story writes itself here
What’s tav
@@FernandoKraznys Tav is kind of the default name for a customer character in BG3, its just kinda like a meme at this point.
It's going to make good playthrough even more rewarding to me. I plan to play the game as a dragonborn dragonblooded sorcerer(well that's a mouthfull) that will be good/chaotic good. Needles to say my character will not be happy about his urges...tadpole seems like a lesser problem in such a case especially since it's not transforming him into Illythid normally. Also that butler demon(I'm pretty sure it's a demon) seems like will be a funny guy to talk to.
I don't think Shart will help you become good. Even though she does approve of some good deeds she prefers evil ones and doesn't like getting invovled with other creatures unless there is a benefit to her cause
and if you are dark urge you will have something in common with her you both have amnesia
I wasn't planning on playing dark urge my first playthrough, especially since it's be with my sister and her fiancee. You've convinced me to do so otherwise, pair that with the fact I plan to play paladin and I think it's gonna be an interesting run.
love you buddy, keep the good work
There's no way I'm not going to play as the Dark Urge, but your honesty about what it means and entails, as well as your personal experiences only reinforced my plan.
I need a companion video. Especially because Larian remade Wyll, and I used to hate him. I want to know what changed. Also, what are those horns on Wyll at 13:31 ?
I'm really grateful for all the bg3 vids mate keep em comin!
TBH, I’ve never been able to complete a rpg as a chaotic evil characters, because senseless brutality for the sake of suffering another being is just impossible for me. A lawful evil character however… It’s nice to know there are choices for Dark Urge.
Dark Urge will be my first play through, I want to be a crazy person. When I played SWTOR, I played a completely dark side Sith Sorceress and that was the most fun I ever had, she would shock everyone and maniacally laugh at their pain😂 this Dark Urge seems like it would play and act the same.
A good way to push more people to do an evil playthrough is to make a achievement centered around it. I've only done a evil playthrough once and that was throughout the ME series on insanity
To be completely fair, Renegade in Mass Effect isn't even all that evil in my opinion. Yes, you're definitely a jerk many times, but you're still achieving good things if I recall correctly? I'd much rather play that than the actual evil path that some RPGs present (which is not criticism, it's cool that the option is there, all I'm saying is I personally don't actually enjoy making fake people miserable for no reason lol)
Mass Effect doesn't really have an 'evil' playthrough, outside of occasionally being a space racist. There is good boi hero(Paragon) and asshole hero(Renegade), but you are still a hero who saves the day.
@@DizRupTnzIf Mass Effect 3 didn't exist you'd be right but it does. Mass Effect 3 undoubtedly has evil choices
I played as a fire godlike monk in Pillars of Ethernity. Different system, but I had a lot of fun.
I think people haven't really thought about 3 lvls of Rogue Thief for the second bonus action. Sorcerer for more spells, Paladin for more smite spells, and now Monk for more attacks.
What would you use your 2 bonus actions on as a sorc? And you would lose 3 metamagic points (and spells, a feat, and more) for that? It sounds indcredibly bad to me to be honest.
@@timm8998 Quicken Spell for a third leveled spell in a turn. It is costly a total of 6 sorcery points, so need to be at least 6th level in Sorc to even do it. Could be good nova damage. Also 3 lvls in rogue gets you expertise in 2 skills and cunning action.
@@geoffreysherman609I see, at lvl 9 you could do that or offer spell slots for extra sorc points I guess.
@@geoffreysherman609 Unless the rules are different in BG3, which they might be, you can't cast more than one levelled spell in a turn. I didn't play Sorcerer enough in EA to get to that point.
@@ManlyPicnics You can. It does differ from 5th in that way. As does Thief getting a second bonus action, Wyll being able to wield a rapier as a warlock(though I think he will be a blade lock so it sorta fits).
I am new to the DND experience. Ever since the reveal of Bg3 I’ve been getting into this lore and world more so. I understand table top mechanics to some degree but there are definitely more nuances and just more to it in general that I am understanding with this game.
So I appreciate your information fex in this area as a new player and a very excited player at that .
I absolutely think this game will be game of the year as well, and probably one I will be playing for years to come. The insane amount of authentic immersive detail from the world to the characters two player interactions like with the romances, etc., it is insane to me. It just feels more genuine. It’s not more innovative than any game before it and that’s freaking awesome.
I’m curious about the dark urge more, but especially from the standpoint of multiple Playthru’s.
Obviously, there are options and choices that are available to you with the dark urge that are not if you are not playing as this character otherwise… But I’m curious if you can steal choose bad choices so to speak, even if you’re not the dark urge.
I take the approach to this game and world to be one of morally Grey, just in general, so I would assume you could still choose bad outcomes, but the dark urge just allows for different kinds of bad outcomes that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise?
If that makes sense .
Also, I’m a little foggy on the difference between warlock and wizard and sorcerer. That could be my own ignorance obviously but I would like to better understand the differences between these classes which I’m sure you’ll get to and some videos in the future here so I’m looking forward to that.
Thx Fex! Exciting adventure/experience to come💯💪🏻
Wizards learn magic through study and practice and use intelligence to cast. They have access lots of spells but can only prepare a certain amount per day. They also specialize in a specific category, or "school", of magic, like necromancy, evocation (damaging spells), abjuration (defensive spells) and others.
Sorcerers, on the other hand, are born with magic and use it instinctively, therefore their spellcasting ability is charisma. They don't prepare spells, but rather pick a smaller number that are always available, provided they have the spell slots. They can also change how their spells are cast via various metamagics.
Warlocks are a bit different in a number of ways. First, they get their magic via a contract with a patron, like a demon, Cthulhu or other entity of immense power. Like the sorcerer, their spellcasting ability is charisma. They have way fewer spell slots, but have access to a cantrip known as "Eldritch Blast", which is quite strong and some very unique and powerful spells. They also have special abilities known as "invocations", which allow them to do various things, including buffing Eldritch Blast. In addition, they also tend to be more capable in a melee fight than the other two.
@@corbanbausch9049 much apprec 💯👍 good info explanation. Thank ya
Can you comment on whether you have a choice over what happens just after 4:18 with the squirrel
Thanks for the Monk breakdown!
In 5E, wearing armor as a monk "turns off" their Martial Arts features (attacks using DEX, the damage die replacement on unarmed and monk weapon attacks, and the bonus action attack)
Do you remember from your playtime if this is still the case?
He did say during the video that monk only gets WIS to AC while unarmored so I am assuming the same applies to other monk mechanics as well.
I'm definitely conflicted here. I'd love to have the extra story beats from the DU origin but I just feel like I might not vibe with the evil bits being lightly pushed on me from an RP perspective. I would definitely jump into it fully though if I knew there was some sort of great payoff for resisting the urges and being a good aligned character, (kinda akin to Revan "turning" good in KOTOR) but I worry that the only way you'll really get a satisfying story with this origin is by being evil.
Such an awesome concept... But damn have I never felt as bad for pixels as I have that damn squirrel.
"Theres no reason to not play the Dark Urge" I wanna play a Paladin, and I feel like playing the Dark Urge would send me down the path of Oathbreaker. Like that squirrel killing definitely goes against the Oath of the Ancients, right?
Exactly. Evil dark urge for second play through for sure. Fextra makes it seem like custom characters aren’t worth it which simply isn’t true.
Or you know, add more RP opportunities by holding fast to your oath and not giving in to said urges. Jeeze I feel like everyone reads this origin as if you have no autonomy.
I feel like you can squeeze a Vengeance Paladin into TDU, extracting visceral punishment against your targets. But for Ancients or Devotion, I don't think it quite fits.
Well assuming they fix a lot of the bugs struggling with the oath could be fun roleplay wise. The juxtaposition of an inherently evil person doing their best to be good
You don't have to kill the squirrel. In the Rock Paper Shotgun preview they said they chose the Dark Urge labelled choice to 'Go and say hello to the squirrel' and it led to that. Basically don't pick any actions labelled [Dark Urge] no matter how innocuous and you won't accidentally murder someone.
But yeah I think it will be tricky.
I’m still waiting to roll dark urge; mainly because I want to have a more default blank-slate character first; before jumping into the supposed RP heaviness of that origin.
Though; I am excited about the potential for a good playthrough with this constant battle in the mind, overcoming an evil route in game.
I'm sad that four elements has the same issues as it does in the table top. Hoping they fix it before launch. Would rather they were just 1/4 casters like the Eldritch Knight but with like a really limited spell list.
give them the ability to cast multiple elemental based cantrips in a turn.
1/3 casters*
I'm definitely going dark urge, it just sounds like the PC specific origin, and without it, you're just playing a character with less built in story. It's sounds like it's not just the evil character, but like an evil character trait you can either embrace or fight against. Hopefully they expand on that system and add more player origins if they do any expansions or DLCs in the future. I imagine a Gollum-esque trait where you fight against an alternate side of your personality. Failed dice rolls at important dialogue choices could let your alternate side pick a random option (or an option that generally goes against what you would choose, if Larian can figure that out) swaying the story, but out of your control.
You said that you can resist the urges with the dark urge but at one point (4:36) he kicked the squirrel with no dialogue option. What was that about?
Man...glad I watched this...was thinking about dark urge...wasn't going to do it but your comparisson to RL and dark thoughts and decisions...totally made sense from RP perspective. Let the urge come...I'll try to fight it 😮 Cheers mate!!
I think people who want to play Urge as a good guy, on their first playthrough just thinking it's Tav + extra dialogue options don't know what they're signing up for lol. Like you said, playing on hard mode narratively.
I absolutely love playing an evil character put in a situation where they're tasked with doing good or a good character struggling with dark temptations. Much more engaging to me than playing a relatively straight-laced character with solely good intentions.
The monk blows in dnd . Hopefully Larian will deliver and bring it to the fullest potential.
"Any weapon that you have proficiency in."
You just made the biggest fucking smile paint across my face lmao. As someone who has never played DND before, I saw the monk preview and was like "Oh hey that looks cool" but while reading the monk class from 5e out of curiosity I was like "Wait I can't have a big fuck-off axe? Daaaaaaangit"
he's incorrect, Monk weapons are only anything you have proficiency in that do not have heavy or two handed tags. all other tags are fine including versatile
In the panel from hell they mentioned adding a new ability to Shadow Monk that allowed them to teleport instantly to an enemy and deal extra psychic damage to them. Did you get to use that ability, and can you provide any more details on it?
Oh god... Breaking Alfira's lute is so EVIL.
I got to love Larian's effort to put in the most horrible POS alignment choice after I had such a mushy neutral good playthrough.
What class/race combo would be the most lore-friendly for Dark Urge? A Drow Warlock?
Yes but with dark urge im guessing some things happen where you DONT get a choice- its scripted- and ive heard it gets harder to resist as the game goes on- implying you have to pass ability checks or something like that to NOT do the bad stuff.. I might still play it on a later playthrough but probably not the first.
p.s im curious are all the 'urges' to do with blood and killing and violence etc or other sorts of evil behaviours too?
Bards Tale monks were the best to date of any RPG. Literally had to carry them early game, late game godlike… no weapons required.
Yeah I was worried about playing the dark urge for a while, but when I realized it wasn’t just a murder hobo origin and you can resist the urges, I figured that would be way more interesting to play than just a normal generic custom character
Exactly that yeah, I'm going to go with an oathbreaker paladin and rp my way to redemption, think the dark urge will be really fun
Normal custom characters will have as much story as origins.
A quote from a Eurogamer article that went up today: "...at certain points, The Dark Urge will take over your character and make you do horrendous things that will change your playthrough irrevocably."
@@thedrunkmanga4610literally wrong, DU origin is a custom character but with additional content.
@@bubbly_ghost it won’t be the same as custom. DU railroads you to it’s origin story. Thats not custom.
It's great, my first playthrough as Dark Urge will be fighting every urge and trying my best to overcome.
Second DU run, I will be the worst thing to ever happen to Faerûn lol
@Fextralife. I was curious, have Larian done any Homebrewing when it comes to the Dragonborn? Like giving them Darkvision, and/or making their Breath Weapon/Elemental Resistances better?
I'm glad you don't have to do evil things because that makes me excited to play the Dark Urge in my first playthrough. My main dnd character is an anti-hero, an Oathbreaker that isn't out there killing innocent people, but will absolutely be violent towards people she thinks deserve it. I think The Dark Urge will fit her well since she's not always nice.
The squirrel killing didn't give you an option, so sometimes your character will just do fked up stuff.
You will have to. Kicking the squirrel into the tree had no options, and waking up next to people you murdered also isn't an option. You will do fucked up shit as the DU.
@@NanoT_T what kind of people?
You said monk can use greatsword as a monk weapon (if you have proficiency). Is that correct? So monk GWM is possible?
Only found out about this game a couple months ago but it’s already a contender for GOTY for me, was really needing something to play since dragon age dreadwolf is a ways away
I think the Dark Urge is better than some character who can never do any wrong.. Absolutely perfect and the epitome of good
Fex, your video gave me the urge to play as the Dark Urge. Sounds super interesting!
The reason not to play the Dark Urge is that the "urge for more stuff" is also not always great. Not everyone, myself included, wants to have a first or even second character, that is all about murder, dark impulses and edge. The option is great, and I am certain I will play the Dark Urge, but I really don't think the reasoning "Well, it is more content, so it is the best non-fixed origin option!" is sound in any way. Especially if you have a certain background for your character in mind. The Dark Urge is not a "Tav", they are still very much an Origin.
Truthfully I would have NOT played dark urge until I watched this video. Thank you for clarity on it!
I have a theory about the dark urge, I don’t think it’s an actual character, I think it’s going to be more of a curse/possession. Where the urges you feel are not your character, but something else, makes me really want to play it to see what the story will be if I keep resisting.
Ofcourse it is 'something'. You don't get born with this shit.
I'm so excited for the release. Def going Dark Urge for my solo playthrough. Planning to do a co-op playthrough with friends, probably Gloom Stalker but I'm so curious about Monk, flavor wise it's such a cool class but I'm not a fan of the ki system in tabletop but from what I've seen and heard now I actually want to try it.
Dark urge for a first playthrough seems like a horrible idea unless you wanna play murder hobo. its pretty clear that its going to take over and mske horrible things happen at point regardless of what you do. its feels rather clear its an origin like the others and not just custom character with more dialogue options.
I think you will be forced to do horrible things some of the time. But i think at the end of the game you can resist and turn out a good character. Probably being able to defeat the evil that have you under its grips.
The legend of the Raging Wild Monk is sounding better and better by the minute xD ( Monk, wild magic barbarian multiclass)
Question: since the dark urge has no memories, do we still have a choice of background or an imposed one, and if so, what does it give us?
Edit: you can play a monk wielding SWORDS? Hell yeah!
Wood Elf (long sword and bows) Rogue 1 for a butt load of skills and weapons, then Monk the rest of way.
Damn, less then 3 weeks left. tick tock.
The fact monk is good in this is basically an insta-play/buy for me personally
Monks are like my fantasy when playing these games and they are almost never good. Supra excited.
I disagree about there being "no reason not to play the Dark Urge". Maybe you want to be a custom character, but you don't want to be randomly killing people outside of your own control all the time. Sure, you can resist, but it does seem like regardless your character is going to do some awful things without your input. Maybe you don't want your story to be about resisting those urges, maybe you just want to be the normal fantasy hero archetype. Maybe you want to be able to talk to a squirrel without your character brutally slaughtering it involuntarily.
I'll stick with the original character, thanks much.