The iconic Mage Hand cantrip from Dungeons & Dragons appears in Baldur’s Gate 3. This invisible magical hand can be a helpful tool for characters with access to it, allowing for remote manipulation of objects. However, it is only available to certain classes and archetypes, following the D&D 5E rules. Bards, Warlocks, Wizards, Sorcerers, Eldritch Knights, and Arcane Trickster Rogues can learn this cantrip. Other classes can gain access through multiclassing. Here is how to use Mage Hand in BG3.
How to Use the Mage Hand Spell in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)
Casting Mage Hand requires Action and Concentration. It lasts 10 turns unless its low 3-hit point maximum is depleted. The main benefit of Mage Hand is being able to interact with objects from a distance.
To use it, select Mage Hand from your list of cantrips. This will summon the spectral hand. You’ll then be able to control it by clicking on its portrait next to your character’s. The hand can pick up objects, open doors and chests, move light sources, and use the Shove and Throw actions. It’s also handy for looting downed enemies.
However, Mage Hand has limited combat viability. Using your action to cast it means losing out on other options for a turn. Furthermore, with only three hit points, the hand is easily destroyed by enemies. The Shove action is rarely worth it in battles, either.
Instead, Mage Hand shines outside of fights. Use it to safely trigger traps, grab hard-to-reach items, move obstacles, and open doors and containers. It essentially serves as an extra hand for your party. Just do not rely on it during heated skirmishes.
Tips for Using Mage Hand Effectively
Here are a few tips for using Mage Hand effectively:
- Use Mage Hand to your advantage in combat, but only use your action if it significantly impacts the battle.
- It can distract enemies by moving objects around or making noise.
- Keep an eye on the range of your Mage Hand at all times. If you lose track of it, you could lose control of it.
- Don’t overextend your Mage Hand beyond its 18 meters range.
- Use Mage Hand for tasks like opening doors and chests from a safe distance.
That covers all about Mage Hand in BG3. Also, you can look at our Baldur’s Gate 3 section here at Gamer Tweak.
