Here is a 2000+ word guide on powerful multiclass combinations and tips for success in Baldur‘s Gate 3:
Introduction
Multiclassing allows players to combine features from different classes into one character in Baldur’s Gate 3. This opens up many possibilities but also risks creating weaker versions of each class if not done thoughtfully. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most potent multiclass combinations, analyzing how their features and spells synergize while providing tips to optimize your build.
Why Multiclass in Baldur‘s Gate 3
Multiclassing enables versatility and specialization beyond what single classes can offer. By blending features from two classes, you gain additional skills, spells, attacks, and other benefits. However, it requires tradeoffs by delaying high-level class features.
For example, a level 10 single-class Wizard can cast 5th level spells. But a level 5 Wizard/level 5 Fighter multiclass can only cast 3rd level Wizard spells, despite having the spell slots for 4th level. This concept of spell slots progressing faster than spell levels is crucial to understand.
Executing effective multiclass builds requires analyzing these tradeoffs around features, slots, stats, and more. When done well, combine classes amplify each other‘s strengths. Certain combinations like Wizard and Fighter form elite battle mages. Others like Warlock and Paladin fuse magical and melee attacks for unrelenting offense.
We’ll explore pros, cons and tips for optimization across popular multiclass archetypes below.
Potent Battle Mage Builds
Wizards offer the ultimate magical artillery via potent spells. Fighters bring weapon/armor skills and Action Surge for casting two spells a turn. Together as Wizard/Fighters, they become formidable battle mages, blending magic and steel.
Pros:
- Cast spells in full plate armor with Fighter weapon/armor proficiencies
- Action Surge enables casting two leveled spells in one turn
- Wizard provides large spellbook and utility magic like Feather Fall
- Fighter gives survivability from Second Wind self-healing
Cons:
- Delays access to level 18+ capstone class features
- Loses higher level spell progression. A level 10 Wizard can cast 5th level spells vs a level 5 Wizard/Fighter casting 3rd level only
Tips:
- Start as Fighter for heavy armor immediately, then multiclass to Wizard
- Or begin Wizard and take one early Fighter level for medium armor
- Use spells that scale by character level like Cantrips so lower slot levels matter less
For more damage output at the cost of utility, combine Warlock and Paladin…
Divine Striking Warlocks
Binding Eldritch magic with holy vengeance, Warlock and Paladin fuse reliable damage with spellcasting flexibility. This deadly blend of arcane and divine strikes terrifies foes.
Pros:
- Smite spells like Branding Smite added onto divine smites for burst damage
- Short rest spell slots fuel divine smites while preserving Warlock slots
- Hex boosts Eldritch Blast further as a reliable ranged attack
- Aura of Protection improves saves for tankiness
Cons:
- Multiple ability dependencies on Charisma and Strength
- Delayed spell slot progression to get highest levels
Tips:
- Custom Lineage race helps get needed 16+ Cha and 15 Str at level 1
- Go to Paladin 6 first for Aura then add Warlock
- Take the Agonizing Blast invocation for consistent Eldritch damage
For straightforward brute force up close, combine Raging Barbarian with Tactical Fighter…
Barbarian Warriors
When unbridled fury meets tactical mastery, few foes withstand the Barbarian/Fighter charging into the fray. Survival is all but guaranteed between damage resistance and self-heals while Action Surge carves through enemies.
Pros:
- Rage halves damage from all sources except Psychic
- Unarmored Defense improves base AC during Rage
- Action Surge doubles attacks when needed
- Second Wind offers sizable healing without spell slots
Cons:
- Delays Extra Attack feature
- Requires investing in Strength, Constitution and Dexterity
Tips:
- Start as Barbarian for proficiencies then multiclass to Fighter
- Pick Bear Aspect in Wildheart subclass for ultimate damage resistance
- Use Brutal Critical and Savage Attacks for devasting critical hits
Conclusion
The key to effective multiclassing is analyzing how features interconnect, including spell slots, proficiencies, fighting styles and mobility options. Evaluate action economy from Action Surge, Cunning Action or spell combos using bonus actions too.
Review the level distribution tradeoffs as well, either specializing in one class, or blending early levels of each. And ensure you have the ability scores to meet multiclass requirements before committing.
What multiclass ideas are you considering for maximum impact? Share your thoughts in the comments below!