Astarion (Companion) | Arcane Trickster | Monoclass | Cephalopocalypse

This build is by Cephalopocalypse. He does really in depth videos but there is no repository for them anywhere. The video can be found here.

Early Game

• Shadow Blade (optionally with Magic Weapon)
• x2 +1 Hand Crossbows
• Gloves of Archery
• Warped Headband of Intellect ( allows you to dump Intelligence and increase Constitution)
• The Graceful Cloth

Late Game

• Resonant Stone (boosts Shadow Blade)
• Supreme Elixir of Arcane Cultivation (let’s you upcast Shadow Blade at a higher level)

Alternate Gear

• Helmet of Grit
• Helldusk Gloves
• Amulet of Greater Health

Leveling Note

Level 7, replace Fog Cloud for Shadow Blade.

Respec Note

When you start using Shadow Blade more, you can respec. Replace Sharp Shooter for Alert.

Playstyle

Early game rely on ranged attacks, and slowly transition toward melee. Starting level 9, spells such as Hold Person become more effective (especially with the right gear choice). The alternate gear listed is if you’re looking to do more melee and less magic. Leverage Booming Blade to trigger item effects.