How do I create a balanced multiclass build in Baldur's Gate 3?

Creating a balanced multiclass build in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a deep understanding of the game's mechanics, as well as careful planning to ensure your character remains effective in combat, exploration, and roleplay. Multiclassing allows you to combine the abilities of two or more classes, but it also comes with trade-offs, such as delayed access to higher-level abilities and spells. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you create a balanced multiclass build.

First, understand the mechanics of multiclassing. In Baldur's Gate 3, multiclassing follows the Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition rules. To multiclass, your character must meet the ability score prerequisites for both your current class and the class you want to add. For example, to multiclass into a Wizard, you need at least 13 Intelligence. Each class has its own prerequisites, so plan your ability scores accordingly during character creation. When you level up, you can choose to take a level in a new class instead of your current one. This grants you the starting features of that class, but you wonÔÇÖt gain the higher-level features of your original class as quickly.

Step-by-step, hereÔÇÖs how to create a balanced multiclass build. Start by choosing your primary class, which will be the foundation of your build. This class should align with your characterÔÇÖs core role, whether thatÔÇÖs dealing damage, supporting allies, or controlling the battlefield. For example, if you want to focus on melee combat, starting as a Fighter or Paladin is a strong choice. Next, decide on your secondary class. This should complement your primary class by filling in gaps or enhancing your strengths. For instance, a Fighter might multiclass into a Rogue for sneak attack damage and improved mobility. Alternatively, a Sorcerer might multiclass into a Warlock for additional spell slots and invocations.

When planning your multiclass, consider the level split. A common approach is to take 5 levels in your primary class to gain Extra Attack or 3rd-level spells, then multiclass into your secondary class. For example, a Paladin 5 / Warlock 3 build allows you to smite with Warlock spell slots while still having access to PaladinÔÇÖs Extra Attack. Another popular split is 6 levels in one class and 6 in another, which can provide a good balance of features from both classes. However, some builds benefit from a 1- or 2-level dip in a secondary class. For example, a Fighter 1 / Wizard X build gives you heavy armor proficiency and Constitution saving throws, making your Wizard more durable.

Important tips and considerations include managing your ability scores and ensuring your multiclass doesnÔÇÖt leave you too weak in key areas. For example, a Barbarian / Rogue multiclass might struggle with low Dexterity if you focus too much on Strength. Additionally, be mindful of how multiclassing affects your spellcasting. If you multiclass into a spellcasting class, your spell slots are determined by your combined levels in all spellcasting classes, but you prepare and learn spells separately for each class. This means a Cleric 3 / Wizard 3 has the spell slots of a 6th-level caster but can only prepare 3rd-level Cleric spells and 2nd-level Wizard spells.

Common mistakes to avoid include multiclassing too early or too often. Taking a level in a new class before youÔÇÖve gained key features from your primary class can leave you underpowered. For example, a Fighter who multiclasses into Rogue at level 2 will miss out on the FighterÔÇÖs Action Surge at level 2 and Extra Attack at level 5. Another mistake is neglecting your ability scores. Multiclassing often requires high scores in multiple abilities, so plan your ability score improvements carefully.

Advanced techniques include optimizing your build for specific roles or synergies. For example, a Sorcerer / Warlock multiclass can use the WarlockÔÇÖs short-rest spell slots to fuel the SorcererÔÇÖs Metamagic, creating a powerful combination known as the ÔÇ£Sorlock.ÔÇØ Another advanced technique is using feats to enhance your multiclass build. For example, the Polearm Master feat works well with a Fighter / Paladin multiclass, allowing you to make bonus action attacks and trigger opportunity attacks more often.

Related D&D rules and mechanics include the multiclassing spell slot table, which determines your total spell slots based on your combined levels in spellcasting classes. Additionally, some class features, like the PaladinÔÇÖs Divine Smite, can be used with spell slots from any class, making them particularly powerful in multiclass builds.

Specific examples and scenarios include a Fighter 6 / Wizard 4 build, which combines the FighterÔÇÖs martial prowess with the WizardÔÇÖs utility spells. This build is effective in both melee combat and spellcasting, making it versatile in a variety of situations. Another example is a Rogue 3 / Ranger 5 build, which uses the RogueÔÇÖs sneak attack and the RangerÔÇÖs HunterÔÇÖs Mark to deal consistent damage in combat.

In conclusion, creating a balanced multiclass build in Baldur's Gate 3 requires careful planning and a solid understanding of the gameÔÇÖs mechanics. By choosing complementary classes, managing your ability scores, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a versatile and powerful character capable of handling the challenges ahead.