What are the best spells for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3?
Paladins in Baldur's Gate 3 are versatile and powerful characters, combining martial prowess with divine magic. Choosing the best spells for a Paladin involves understanding their role in combat, their spellcasting mechanics, and how their abilities synergize with their class features. Paladins are unique because they prepare spells after each long rest, allowing flexibility in spell selection based on the challenges you expect to face. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you optimize your PaladinÔÇÖs spell selection.
First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of Paladin spellcasting. Paladins use Charisma as their spellcasting ability, meaning their spell save DC and spell attack modifier are based on this stat. They have a limited number of spell slots, which are used to cast spells or fuel their Divine Smite ability. Paladins gain access to spells at level 2, and their spell slots increase as they level up. They can prepare a number of spells equal to their Charisma modifier plus half their Paladin level, rounded down. This means you should prioritize increasing your Charisma to maximize the number of spells you can prepare.
For early levels, focus on spells that enhance your combat effectiveness and provide utility. At level 2, consider preparing spells like Bless, Shield of Faith, and Divine Favor. Bless is an excellent choice because it boosts the attack rolls and saving throws of up to three allies, including yourself. This spell is particularly useful in tough fights where accuracy and survivability are crucial. Shield of Faith provides a +2 bonus to AC for a chosen creature, making it ideal for protecting yourself or a vulnerable ally. Divine Favor adds 1d4 radiant damage to your weapon attacks, which can significantly increase your damage output in combat.
As you progress to higher levels, youÔÇÖll gain access to more powerful spells. At level 5, consider preparing spells like Lesser Restoration, Magic Weapon, and Find Steed. Lesser Restoration allows you to remove conditions like paralysis or poison, which can be lifesaving in certain encounters. Magic Weapon is useful if you find yourself facing enemies resistant to non-magical damage, as it temporarily makes your weapon magical. Find Steed grants you a loyal mount, which can be a valuable asset in both combat and exploration.
One of the most important considerations for Paladins is balancing spellcasting with their Divine Smite ability. Divine Smite allows you to expend a spell slot to deal extra radiant damage on a successful melee attack. This ability is incredibly powerful and often more impactful than casting a spell, especially in the early game. Therefore, itÔÇÖs essential to manage your spell slots carefully, deciding when to use them for spells and when to save them for Divine Smite. In general, save your spell slots for Divine Smite in critical moments, such as when you land a critical hit or need to finish off a tough enemy.
Another advanced technique is to use your spells to set up powerful combos. For example, you can cast Hold Person to paralyze an enemy, then use Divine Smite to deal massive damage with an automatic critical hit. This combo is particularly effective against humanoid enemies and can turn the tide of a difficult battle. Similarly, using spells like Command or Compelled Duel can control the battlefield, forcing enemies to focus on you or preventing them from attacking your allies.
When building your Paladin, itÔÇÖs important to avoid common mistakes such as neglecting your Charisma or over-relying on spellcasting. While Paladins have access to spells, their primary role is still as a frontline fighter. Focus on increasing your Strength or Dexterity for melee combat, and use your spells to enhance your effectiveness rather than replace it. Additionally, donÔÇÖt forget to use your Lay on Hands ability, which provides a reliable source of healing without using spell slots.
In terms of optimization, consider multiclassing with other Charisma-based classes like Sorcerer or Warlock. A Paladin/Sorcerer multiclass, for example, can provide additional spell slots for Divine Smite and access to powerful spells like Shield or Counterspell. However, multiclassing requires careful planning to ensure you donÔÇÖt lose out on important Paladin features like Aura of Protection or Improved Divine Smite.
Finally, remember that Paladins are not just combat machines. Their spells and abilities can also be used to influence the story and roleplay aspects of the game. Spells like Zone of Truth or Detect Evil and Good can provide valuable information in dialogue and exploration, helping you make informed decisions and uncover hidden secrets.
In summary, the best spells for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 are those that enhance your combat effectiveness, provide utility, and synergize with your class features. Focus on spells like Bless, Shield of Faith, and Divine Smite in the early game, and expand your repertoire with spells like Lesser Restoration and Find Steed as you level up. Manage your spell slots wisely, balancing spellcasting with Divine Smite, and consider multiclassing for additional versatility. By following these strategies, you can create a powerful and well-rounded Paladin capable of handling any challenge the game throws at you.
First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of Paladin spellcasting. Paladins use Charisma as their spellcasting ability, meaning their spell save DC and spell attack modifier are based on this stat. They have a limited number of spell slots, which are used to cast spells or fuel their Divine Smite ability. Paladins gain access to spells at level 2, and their spell slots increase as they level up. They can prepare a number of spells equal to their Charisma modifier plus half their Paladin level, rounded down. This means you should prioritize increasing your Charisma to maximize the number of spells you can prepare.
For early levels, focus on spells that enhance your combat effectiveness and provide utility. At level 2, consider preparing spells like Bless, Shield of Faith, and Divine Favor. Bless is an excellent choice because it boosts the attack rolls and saving throws of up to three allies, including yourself. This spell is particularly useful in tough fights where accuracy and survivability are crucial. Shield of Faith provides a +2 bonus to AC for a chosen creature, making it ideal for protecting yourself or a vulnerable ally. Divine Favor adds 1d4 radiant damage to your weapon attacks, which can significantly increase your damage output in combat.
As you progress to higher levels, youÔÇÖll gain access to more powerful spells. At level 5, consider preparing spells like Lesser Restoration, Magic Weapon, and Find Steed. Lesser Restoration allows you to remove conditions like paralysis or poison, which can be lifesaving in certain encounters. Magic Weapon is useful if you find yourself facing enemies resistant to non-magical damage, as it temporarily makes your weapon magical. Find Steed grants you a loyal mount, which can be a valuable asset in both combat and exploration.
One of the most important considerations for Paladins is balancing spellcasting with their Divine Smite ability. Divine Smite allows you to expend a spell slot to deal extra radiant damage on a successful melee attack. This ability is incredibly powerful and often more impactful than casting a spell, especially in the early game. Therefore, itÔÇÖs essential to manage your spell slots carefully, deciding when to use them for spells and when to save them for Divine Smite. In general, save your spell slots for Divine Smite in critical moments, such as when you land a critical hit or need to finish off a tough enemy.
Another advanced technique is to use your spells to set up powerful combos. For example, you can cast Hold Person to paralyze an enemy, then use Divine Smite to deal massive damage with an automatic critical hit. This combo is particularly effective against humanoid enemies and can turn the tide of a difficult battle. Similarly, using spells like Command or Compelled Duel can control the battlefield, forcing enemies to focus on you or preventing them from attacking your allies.
When building your Paladin, itÔÇÖs important to avoid common mistakes such as neglecting your Charisma or over-relying on spellcasting. While Paladins have access to spells, their primary role is still as a frontline fighter. Focus on increasing your Strength or Dexterity for melee combat, and use your spells to enhance your effectiveness rather than replace it. Additionally, donÔÇÖt forget to use your Lay on Hands ability, which provides a reliable source of healing without using spell slots.
In terms of optimization, consider multiclassing with other Charisma-based classes like Sorcerer or Warlock. A Paladin/Sorcerer multiclass, for example, can provide additional spell slots for Divine Smite and access to powerful spells like Shield or Counterspell. However, multiclassing requires careful planning to ensure you donÔÇÖt lose out on important Paladin features like Aura of Protection or Improved Divine Smite.
Finally, remember that Paladins are not just combat machines. Their spells and abilities can also be used to influence the story and roleplay aspects of the game. Spells like Zone of Truth or Detect Evil and Good can provide valuable information in dialogue and exploration, helping you make informed decisions and uncover hidden secrets.
In summary, the best spells for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 are those that enhance your combat effectiveness, provide utility, and synergize with your class features. Focus on spells like Bless, Shield of Faith, and Divine Smite in the early game, and expand your repertoire with spells like Lesser Restoration and Find Steed as you level up. Manage your spell slots wisely, balancing spellcasting with Divine Smite, and consider multiclassing for additional versatility. By following these strategies, you can create a powerful and well-rounded Paladin capable of handling any challenge the game throws at you.