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

Multiclassing a Bard in Baldur's Gate 3 can create a highly versatile and powerful character, capable of excelling in both combat and roleplay scenarios. Bards are naturally charismatic and skilled in a variety of areas, making them excellent candidates for multiclassing. However, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics, synergies, and potential pitfalls before diving into a multiclass build. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you make the most of your Bard multiclass.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of multiclassing in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3. Multiclassing allows you to split your levels between two or more classes, gaining abilities from each. For Bards, the key is to choose a class that complements their strengths, such as high Charisma, spellcasting, and support abilities. The most common and effective multiclass options for Bards include Warlock, Paladin, Sorcerer, and Rogue. Each of these classes offers unique benefits that can enhance your BardÔÇÖs capabilities.

Starting with Warlock, this multiclass is particularly strong because it synergizes well with the BardÔÇÖs Charisma-based spellcasting. Warlocks gain access to powerful Eldritch Invocations and the Eldritch Blast cantrip, which scales with character level rather than class level. This means your Bard can deal consistent damage while still maintaining their support and utility spells. A common strategy is to take two levels in Warlock to gain Agonizing Blast, which adds your Charisma modifier to Eldritch BlastÔÇÖs damage. This combination allows you to deal significant damage while still having access to Bard spells like Healing Word and Faerie Fire.

Paladin is another excellent choice for a Bard multiclass. Paladins are melee-focused and benefit from high Charisma, making them a natural fit for Bards. The combination of Bard and Paladin allows you to create a character that excels in both melee combat and support. A popular build is the Bardadin, which typically involves taking six levels in Paladin to gain the Aura of Protection, and then multiclassing into Bard for additional spellcasting and utility. This build is particularly effective in melee combat, as you can use Divine Smite in conjunction with Bard spells to deal massive damage.

Sorcerer is another strong option for a Bard multiclass. Sorcerers are also Charisma-based spellcasters, and their Metamagic abilities can greatly enhance your Bard spells. For example, Twinned Spell allows you to target two creatures with a single-target spell, such as Hold Person or Polymorph. Quickened Spell lets you cast a spell as a bonus action, allowing you to cast two spells in a single turn. A common strategy is to take three levels in Sorcerer to gain access to Metamagic, and then focus on Bard for the rest of your levels. This combination allows you to be a highly versatile spellcaster, capable of both support and damage.

Rogue is a less common but still viable option for a Bard multiclass. Rogues benefit from high Dexterity and Charisma, making them a good fit for Bards who want to focus on stealth and skill-based gameplay. A Bard-Rogue multiclass can be highly effective in social situations, as youÔÇÖll have access to both Bardic Inspiration and the RogueÔÇÖs Expertise ability. This combination allows you to excel in both combat and roleplay scenarios, making you a valuable asset to any party.

When multiclassing, itÔÇÖs important to consider the level progression and how it will affect your characterÔÇÖs abilities. For example, if you multiclass too early, you may delay important class features like Bardic Inspiration or Spellcasting. ItÔÇÖs generally recommended to take at least five levels in Bard before multiclassing, as this will give you access to third-level spells and Font of Inspiration, which allows you to regain Bardic Inspiration on a short rest.

Another important consideration is your ability scores. Bards rely heavily on Charisma, so itÔÇÖs important to prioritize this stat when multiclassing. Depending on your secondary class, you may also need to invest in other stats, such as Dexterity for a Rogue multiclass or Strength for a Paladin multiclass. Make sure to plan your ability scores carefully to ensure your character is effective in both classes.

Common mistakes to avoid when multiclassing a Bard include spreading your levels too thin and neglecting important class features. For example, taking too many levels in a secondary class may prevent you from gaining access to higher-level Bard spells, which can be crucial in late-game scenarios. ItÔÇÖs also important to consider the role you want your character to play in the party. If youÔÇÖre the primary spellcaster, you may want to focus more on Bard levels to gain access to powerful spells like Mass Cure Wounds or Dominate Person.

Advanced techniques for optimizing a Bard multiclass include carefully selecting your spells and abilities to maximize synergy between your classes. For example, if youÔÇÖre multiclassing with Warlock, you can use the Hex spell in conjunction with Eldritch Blast to deal significant damage. If youÔÇÖre multiclassing with Paladin, you can use Divine Smite in conjunction with Bard spells like Hold Person to deal massive damage to a single target. ItÔÇÖs also important to consider your party composition and how your multiclass build will complement the other members of your party.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, itÔÇÖs important to understand how multiclassing affects your spellcasting. When you multiclass, your spell slots are determined by your combined levels in spellcasting classes. For example, a Bard 5/Warlock 2 would have the same number of spell slots as a level 7 Bard, but would only have access to third-level Bard spells and first-level Warlock spells. This means youÔÇÖll need to carefully manage your spell slots and choose spells that are effective at lower levels.

Specific examples of effective Bard multiclass builds include the Bardlock (Bard/Warlock), which focuses on combining Bardic Inspiration with Eldritch Blast for consistent damage and support. Another example is the Bardadin (Bard/Paladin), which combines the BardÔÇÖs spellcasting and support abilities with the PaladinÔÇÖs melee combat and Divine Smite. Finally, the Sorcerer/Bard multiclass allows you to be a highly versatile spellcaster, capable of both support and damage.

In conclusion, multiclassing a Bard in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 can create a highly versatile and powerful character, capable of excelling in both combat and roleplay scenarios. By carefully considering your class choices, ability scores, and level progression, you can create a character that is both effective and fun to play. Whether you choose to multiclass with Warlock, Paladin, Sorcerer, or Rogue, the key is to find a combination that complements your playstyle and enhances your BardÔÇÖs strengths.