What are the best multiclass options for a Cleric in Baldur's Gate 3?

Multiclassing a Cleric in Baldur's Gate 3 can significantly enhance your character's versatility, allowing you to combine the divine power of the Cleric with the strengths of another class. However, it requires careful planning to ensure that the multiclass build remains effective and balanced. Below is a detailed guide on the best multiclass options for a Cleric, including mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

One of the most popular multiclass options for a Cleric is combining it with the Fighter class. This combination allows you to create a durable and versatile character who can both deal damage and support the party. The Fighter class provides access to martial weapons, heavy armor, and the Action Surge ability, which can be incredibly useful in combat. To start, you should take at least one level in Fighter to gain proficiency in heavy armor and martial weapons. This will allow your Cleric to wear the best armor and use a wider variety of weapons, increasing their survivability and damage output. After taking the first level in Fighter, you can continue leveling up as a Cleric to gain access to higher-level spells and class features. A common strategy is to take two levels in Fighter to gain Action Surge, which allows you to take an additional action on your turn. This can be particularly powerful when combined with high-level Cleric spells, allowing you to cast multiple spells in a single turn.

Another strong multiclass option for a Cleric is the Sorcerer class. This combination allows you to combine the divine magic of the Cleric with the arcane magic of the Sorcerer, creating a character who can cast a wide variety of spells. The Sorcerer class provides access to the Metamagic feature, which allows you to modify your spells in powerful ways. For example, you can use the Twinned Spell metamagic to target two creatures with a single spell, or the Quickened Spell metamagic to cast a spell as a bonus action. To start, you should take at least one level in Sorcerer to gain access to the Sorcerer spell list and the Metamagic feature. After taking the first level in Sorcerer, you can continue leveling up as a Cleric to gain access to higher-level spells and class features. A common strategy is to take three levels in Sorcerer to gain access to the Metamagic feature, which can significantly enhance your spellcasting abilities.

A third multiclass option for a Cleric is the Rogue class. This combination allows you to create a stealthy and versatile character who can both deal damage and support the party. The Rogue class provides access to the Sneak Attack feature, which allows you to deal extra damage to a creature if you have advantage on the attack roll or if another enemy of the target is within 5 feet of it. To start, you should take at least one level in Rogue to gain proficiency in light armor, finesse weapons, and the Sneak Attack feature. After taking the first level in Rogue, you can continue leveling up as a Cleric to gain access to higher-level spells and class features. A common strategy is to take three levels in Rogue to gain access to the Assassin archetype, which allows you to deal extra damage to creatures that haven't taken a turn in combat yet.

When multiclassing a Cleric, it's important to consider the ability score requirements. In Baldur's Gate 3, you need to have at least a 13 in the primary ability score of both classes to multiclass. For a Cleric, this means you need at least a 13 in Wisdom, and for a Fighter, Sorcerer, or Rogue, you need at least a 13 in Strength, Charisma, or Dexterity, respectively. This means that you need to carefully plan your ability scores when creating your character to ensure that you meet the requirements for multiclassing.

One common mistake to avoid when multiclassing a Cleric is spreading your levels too thin. While multiclassing can provide significant benefits, it also means that you will be delaying access to higher-level spells and class features. For example, if you take three levels in Fighter, you will be three levels behind in gaining access to higher-level Cleric spells. This can be particularly problematic if you are playing in a campaign that requires you to face powerful enemies early on. To avoid this, it's important to carefully consider how many levels you want to take in each class and to plan your character progression accordingly.

Advanced techniques for multiclassing a Cleric include optimizing your spell selection and using your class features in creative ways. For example, if you are multiclassing as a Cleric and Sorcerer, you can use the Sorcerer's Metamagic feature to enhance your Cleric spells. You can use the Twinned Spell metamagic to target two creatures with a single healing spell, or the Quickened Spell metamagic to cast a spell as a bonus action and still have your action available for another spell or attack. Additionally, you can use the Cleric's Channel Divinity feature in combination with the Fighter's Action Surge to take multiple actions in a single turn, allowing you to cast multiple spells or make multiple attacks.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, multiclassing in Baldur's Gate 3 follows the same rules as in the tabletop version of Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition. This means that you need to meet the ability score requirements for both classes, and that your character's level is determined by the total number of levels you have in all classes. Additionally, your spellcasting ability is determined by the class you are using to cast the spell. For example, if you are multiclassing as a Cleric and Sorcerer, you will use your Wisdom modifier for Cleric spells and your Charisma modifier for Sorcerer spells.

Specific examples of multiclass builds include a Cleric/Fighter who focuses on melee combat and support, a Cleric/Sorcerer who focuses on spellcasting and versatility, and a Cleric/Rogue who focuses on stealth and damage. Each of these builds has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best build for you will depend on your playstyle and the needs of your party. By carefully planning your character progression and optimizing your abilities, you can create a powerful and versatile character who can handle any challenge that comes your way.