What are the best multiclass options for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3?
Multiclassing a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a powerful and versatile character, but it requires careful planning to maximize the strengths of both classes. Paladins are naturally strong due to their high durability, healing abilities, and smite damage, but multiclassing can enhance their utility, damage output, or survivability depending on your goals. Below is a detailed guide on the best multiclass options for a Paladin, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.
One of the most popular multiclass options for a Paladin is combining it with the Sorcerer class. This combination, often referred to as the "Sorcadín," allows you to use Sorcerer spell slots to fuel your Divine Smite, while also gaining access to powerful Sorcerer spells like Shield, Misty Step, and Counterspell. The Sorcerer's Metamagic feature, particularly Quickened Spell, lets you cast spells as a bonus action, enabling you to attack and cast in the same turn. To build a Sorcadín, start as a Paladin for the first six levels to gain Extra Attack and Aura of Protection, then multiclass into Sorcerer. This build excels in both melee combat and spellcasting, making it a versatile choice for any party.
Another strong option is multiclassing with the Warlock class, creating a "Padlock." This build synergizes well because Warlocks regain their spell slots on a short rest, which can be used for Divine Smite. The Hexblade subclass, if available, is particularly powerful because it allows you to use Charisma for weapon attacks, making your Paladin more SAD (Single Ability Dependent). Start with Paladin for the first two levels to gain Divine Smite and Fighting Style, then take Warlock levels to gain Pact Magic and Eldritch Invocations. The Padlock build is ideal for players who want to focus on Charisma for both combat and social interactions, while also having access to powerful Warlock spells like Eldritch Blast and Hex.
For players who prefer a more defensive playstyle, multiclassing with the Fighter class can be a great choice. The Fighter's Action Surge allows you to take an additional action in combat, which can be used for an extra attack or casting a spell. Additionally, the Fighter's Second Wind ability provides a small heal, adding to your survivability. Start as a Paladin for the first five levels to gain Extra Attack, then multiclass into Fighter for two levels to gain Action Surge and Second Wind. This build is particularly effective in prolonged battles where you need to deal consistent damage while maintaining high durability.
When multiclassing, it's important to consider your ability scores. Paladins rely on Strength for melee attacks and Charisma for their spellcasting and auras, so you'll want to prioritize these stats. If you're multiclassing with Sorcerer or Warlock, Charisma becomes even more important, as it affects both your spellcasting and your Paladin abilities. For a Fighter multiclass, Strength remains your primary stat, but you should still invest in Charisma for your Paladin features.
One common mistake when multiclassing is spreading your levels too thin. It's generally better to focus on one class for the first few levels to gain key abilities before branching out. For example, a Paladin should typically reach level 5 or 6 before multiclassing to gain Extra Attack and Aura of Protection. Another mistake is neglecting your Constitution score, which affects your hit points and concentration checks. Even if you're focusing on Charisma or Strength, don't forget to invest in Constitution to ensure you can survive in combat.
Advanced techniques for multiclassing include optimizing your spell selection and using your abilities in creative ways. For example, a Sorcadín can use Quickened Spell to cast Hold Person as a bonus action, then use their action to attack with advantage and trigger a critical Divine Smite. A Padlock can use Eldritch Blast to deal ranged damage while still having the option to engage in melee combat. A Fighter multiclass can use Action Surge to cast a spell and attack in the same turn, maximizing your action economy.
In terms of D&D 5E rules, multiclassing requires meeting the ability score prerequisites for both classes. For Paladin, you need at least 13 Strength and 13 Charisma. For Sorcerer, you need 13 Charisma. For Warlock, you need 13 Charisma. For Fighter, you need 13 Strength or Dexterity. Make sure your character meets these requirements before multiclassing.
Specific examples of multiclass builds include a Paladin 6/Sorcerer 6, which balances melee combat and spellcasting, or a Paladin 2/Warlock 10, which focuses on using Warlock spell slots for Divine Smite. A Paladin 5/Fighter 2/Sorcerer 5 is another strong option, combining the benefits of Action Surge with Sorcerer spellcasting.
In conclusion, multiclassing a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a highly effective and versatile character, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your ability scores, class features, and playstyle. Whether you choose to multiclass with Sorcerer, Warlock, or Fighter, each option offers unique benefits that can enhance your Paladin's strengths and cover their weaknesses. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can create a powerful multiclass character that excels in both combat and roleplay.
One of the most popular multiclass options for a Paladin is combining it with the Sorcerer class. This combination, often referred to as the "Sorcadín," allows you to use Sorcerer spell slots to fuel your Divine Smite, while also gaining access to powerful Sorcerer spells like Shield, Misty Step, and Counterspell. The Sorcerer's Metamagic feature, particularly Quickened Spell, lets you cast spells as a bonus action, enabling you to attack and cast in the same turn. To build a Sorcadín, start as a Paladin for the first six levels to gain Extra Attack and Aura of Protection, then multiclass into Sorcerer. This build excels in both melee combat and spellcasting, making it a versatile choice for any party.
Another strong option is multiclassing with the Warlock class, creating a "Padlock." This build synergizes well because Warlocks regain their spell slots on a short rest, which can be used for Divine Smite. The Hexblade subclass, if available, is particularly powerful because it allows you to use Charisma for weapon attacks, making your Paladin more SAD (Single Ability Dependent). Start with Paladin for the first two levels to gain Divine Smite and Fighting Style, then take Warlock levels to gain Pact Magic and Eldritch Invocations. The Padlock build is ideal for players who want to focus on Charisma for both combat and social interactions, while also having access to powerful Warlock spells like Eldritch Blast and Hex.
For players who prefer a more defensive playstyle, multiclassing with the Fighter class can be a great choice. The Fighter's Action Surge allows you to take an additional action in combat, which can be used for an extra attack or casting a spell. Additionally, the Fighter's Second Wind ability provides a small heal, adding to your survivability. Start as a Paladin for the first five levels to gain Extra Attack, then multiclass into Fighter for two levels to gain Action Surge and Second Wind. This build is particularly effective in prolonged battles where you need to deal consistent damage while maintaining high durability.
When multiclassing, it's important to consider your ability scores. Paladins rely on Strength for melee attacks and Charisma for their spellcasting and auras, so you'll want to prioritize these stats. If you're multiclassing with Sorcerer or Warlock, Charisma becomes even more important, as it affects both your spellcasting and your Paladin abilities. For a Fighter multiclass, Strength remains your primary stat, but you should still invest in Charisma for your Paladin features.
One common mistake when multiclassing is spreading your levels too thin. It's generally better to focus on one class for the first few levels to gain key abilities before branching out. For example, a Paladin should typically reach level 5 or 6 before multiclassing to gain Extra Attack and Aura of Protection. Another mistake is neglecting your Constitution score, which affects your hit points and concentration checks. Even if you're focusing on Charisma or Strength, don't forget to invest in Constitution to ensure you can survive in combat.
Advanced techniques for multiclassing include optimizing your spell selection and using your abilities in creative ways. For example, a Sorcadín can use Quickened Spell to cast Hold Person as a bonus action, then use their action to attack with advantage and trigger a critical Divine Smite. A Padlock can use Eldritch Blast to deal ranged damage while still having the option to engage in melee combat. A Fighter multiclass can use Action Surge to cast a spell and attack in the same turn, maximizing your action economy.
In terms of D&D 5E rules, multiclassing requires meeting the ability score prerequisites for both classes. For Paladin, you need at least 13 Strength and 13 Charisma. For Sorcerer, you need 13 Charisma. For Warlock, you need 13 Charisma. For Fighter, you need 13 Strength or Dexterity. Make sure your character meets these requirements before multiclassing.
Specific examples of multiclass builds include a Paladin 6/Sorcerer 6, which balances melee combat and spellcasting, or a Paladin 2/Warlock 10, which focuses on using Warlock spell slots for Divine Smite. A Paladin 5/Fighter 2/Sorcerer 5 is another strong option, combining the benefits of Action Surge with Sorcerer spellcasting.
In conclusion, multiclassing a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a highly effective and versatile character, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your ability scores, class features, and playstyle. Whether you choose to multiclass with Sorcerer, Warlock, or Fighter, each option offers unique benefits that can enhance your Paladin's strengths and cover their weaknesses. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can create a powerful multiclass character that excels in both combat and roleplay.