Don't fret. Learning curve.
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Despite what some people with 1000 hours plus in this game might say, it’s not particularly easy. It takes a bit of time to learn the systems and working out good tactics.
I’ve not tried as a monk, but I hear they can be quite powerful. I don’t think any class is crap, so personally I’d not advise picking one just because someone says they are easier. Unless you want to play a bit to figure out how it works and restart or respec. It is an RPG and combat is only part of it, so I’d stick with the character you want to play.
Some general things:
- Make sure you understand what uses actions, bonus actions, spell slots, etc. Drinking a potion is a bonus action, using a scroll is an action, etc. Also whether things recharge on short rest, long rest, etc.
- Read all the tool tips for sells and special actions so you are clear on what they do.
- Note spell durations and if a spell is concentration or not (you can only have one at a time and it can be broken by taking damage).
- In combat pay close attention to the order of who goes next. Combat in BG3 is almost like solving a puzzle. Often that comes down to who needs to die or be incapacitated first. Try to plan a few moves ahead a little
- Examine enemies. It’s kind of ridiculous, but you can apparently learn everything you need to know about an enemy just by looking at them. (On PC) right click and examine. You’ll see all their abilities, and resistances/vulnerabilities to different types of damage.
- Look out for any equipment that synergises well with a character’s abilities. Don’t worry to much about giving everyone +1 items unless you think they need it. The one thing that I consider essential from act 1 is the whispering promise ring. It grants bless to any character you heal. Give it to someone (eg shadowheart) with healing word, and it’s a ridiculous combination. That then heals, revives and gives a decent buff, at range, all for a bonus action.
- Positioning and using environment can make a big difference. Larian included quite a lot of ways to cheese some fights. Sometimes it’s the environment, or using certain spells and abilities. It’s much more rewarding to think of them yourself than look them up though.
