What is the best armor for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3?

The best armor for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 depends on your playstyle, the specific build you are aiming for, and the stage of the game you are in. Paladins are versatile characters who can serve as both tanks and damage dealers, so their armor needs to balance defense, mobility, and utility. Here is a detailed guide to help you find and optimize the best armor for your Paladin.

First, let's discuss the mechanics of armor in Baldur's Gate 3. Armor is divided into three main categories: light, medium, and heavy. Paladins are proficient in all armor types, but heavy armor is typically the best choice for them because it provides the highest Armor Class (AC), which reduces the chance of being hit by enemy attacks. Heavy armor also allows Paladins to focus on Strength and Charisma without needing to invest heavily in Dexterity for AC. However, heavy armor can limit mobility and impose disadvantage on Stealth checks, so consider your party composition and playstyle when choosing.

Early in the game, you will likely start with basic heavy armor like Chain Mail, which provides an AC of 16. As you progress, you can find or purchase better armor such as Splint Mail (AC 17) and eventually Plate Mail (AC 18). These are solid choices for a Paladin, but the best armor often comes with additional bonuses or unique effects. For example, the Adamantine Splint Mail, found in the Grymforge area, not only provides high AC but also reduces incoming damage and makes enemies less likely to land critical hits against you. This makes it an excellent choice for a tanky Paladin build.

To obtain the Adamantine Splint Mail, you need to complete the "Adamantine Forge" quest in Grymforge. This involves finding Mithral Ore and a mold for Splint Mail, then defeating the guardian of the forge. The process requires careful preparation, as the guardian is a tough opponent. Make sure your party is well-equipped with healing items and abilities, and consider using environmental hazards to your advantage during the fight.

Another excellent option for Paladins is the Flawed Helldusk Armor, which can be found in Act 2. This armor provides a high AC and grants resistance to fire damage, making it particularly useful against enemies that use fire-based attacks. It also has a unique effect that allows you to teleport to a nearby enemy, which can be a game-changer in combat. To acquire this armor, you need to explore the Shadow-Cursed Lands and complete specific quests or defeat powerful enemies.

When optimizing your Paladin's armor, consider the following tips. First, always prioritize AC, as it directly affects your survivability. However, don't ignore other stats like resistances, saving throws, and special abilities. For example, armor that grants resistance to necrotic or radiant damage can be invaluable in certain encounters. Second, think about your party composition. If you have other characters who can provide healing or crowd control, you might be able to focus more on offensive capabilities with your armor choices. Third, don't forget to upgrade your armor when possible. Some armor pieces can be enhanced with enchantments or special materials, so keep an eye out for opportunities to improve your gear.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting your armor's weight and mobility. While heavy armor provides excellent protection, it can slow you down and make it harder to position yourself in combat. Make sure to balance your armor choices with your movement needs, especially if you plan to use abilities like Divine Smite that require you to be in melee range. Another mistake is ignoring the importance of resistances and special effects. While high AC is important, having armor that grants resistance to common damage types or provides unique abilities can make a huge difference in tough fights.

Advanced techniques for optimizing your Paladin's armor include combining it with other gear and abilities. For example, pairing high-AC armor with a shield that grants additional bonuses can significantly increase your survivability. Additionally, consider using spells like Shield of Faith or Divine Shield to further boost your AC in critical moments. Finally, don't forget to use your Paladin's Lay on Hands ability to heal yourself or your allies, as this can help you stay in the fight longer.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, Baldur's Gate 3 closely follows the mechanics of armor and AC. Heavy armor provides the highest AC but imposes disadvantage on Stealth checks and requires a minimum Strength score to wear without penalty. Medium armor offers a balance between AC and mobility, while light armor is best for characters who rely on Dexterity for AC. Paladins, being proficient in all armor types, can choose the best option based on their build and playstyle.

In conclusion, the best armor for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 is typically heavy armor with high AC and additional bonuses or resistances. Early in the game, Chain Mail and Splint Mail are solid choices, while later options like Adamantine Splint Mail and Flawed Helldusk Armor offer superior protection and unique effects. To optimize your armor, prioritize AC, consider resistances and special abilities, and balance your gear with your movement needs. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting resistances or ignoring the importance of mobility, and use advanced techniques like combining armor with shields and spells to maximize your effectiveness in combat. By following these strategies, you can ensure that your Paladin is well-equipped to face the challenges of Baldur's Gate 3.