I know that part of the game is electing to trade off one thing for another – and this includes attribute values (e.g. higher magic level to gain access to spells and equipment or higher willpower for more mana). However, I don't know what the different attributes unlock for each character class and so don't know how to make a plan to get the necessary attributes when I need them.
So far I've been concentrating on the 2-3 attributes I think are most needed for each class (e.g. strength & constitution for warrior types and magic, willpower, and constitution for mage types).
Recently, I just discovered that some skills available for Alister also require fairly high (18) dexterity.
What are reasonable values that I should strive to get in each attribute for the various classes?
Best Answer
Strength increases damage with weapons except staves and crossbows. It also increases physical resistance. This is the bread and butter stat for warriors, especially 2 handed warriors. It also increases intimidation dialogue success.
Dex increases damage from piercing weapons, as well as increasing physical resistance and attack. You want this for your rogues BUT ALSO for your tanks, since it increases defense. It's also a pre-req for shield talents.
Cunning increases armor penetration. It also aids in persuasion dialogue, lock picking stealing, etc.
Willpower is mainly for mages since it increases their mana pool. It also increases mental resistance and stamina pool, so you can give it to anyone but honestly it's not worth it
Magic increases spell power. It increases mental resistance too and makes health potions more effective. You want to stack this on your mages.
Stack magic on mages. Strength and dex on warriors (mostly strength for damage, dex for tanks). Rogues get cunning and dex (You need 16 in cunning for your abilities. Past that, you can go full dex, full cunning, or equal. All are viable).
Constitution is more of a feel thing. Get constitution to where you're comfortable. You honestly don't need much since health potions are so easy to get.
You can find builds for the Warden and your companions on the Bioware forums if you need help with stats, abilities, and tactics.