Best Companions to Recruit Early in Baldur's Gate 3
Which Baldur's Gate 3 companions to recruit first in Act 1 — party synergy, approval tips, and who fills each role.
Companions define your party balance. Recruit early to level together and unlock personal quests.
Must-recruit Act 1 companions
| Companion | Role | Synergy |
|---|---|---|
| Shadowheart | Cleric healer | Every party needs healing |
| Lae’zel | Fighter frontline | Strong early damage |
| Astarion | Rogue scout | Locks, traps, sneak attacks |
| Gale | Wizard control | AoE and crowd control |
Approval basics
- Respect companion values in dialogue
- Do not force romance early — focus on trust
- Personal quest items appear on the map — prioritize them
Party templates
Balanced: Custom PC + Shadowheart + Lae’zel + Astarion
Magic heavy: Custom PC + Gale + Shadowheart + Wyll
Bottom line
Recruit Shadowheart and Lae’zel first for sustain and damage. Add Astarion for utility before harder Act 1 fights.
Recommended purchase
Ready to play Baldur's Gate 3?
If this guide helped you, consider picking up the game. Purchases through our link may support the site at no extra cost to you.
Buy Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam
Frequently asked questions
How many companions can I have in BG3?
Four active party members plus your custom character. You can recruit all companions but only travel with four at a time.