Baldur’s Gate 3 Multiclass Build Rankings & Tier List

Baldur’s Gate 3 Multiclass Build Rankings & Tier List

Baldur’s Gate 3 presents players with a variety of character classes and subclasses, but you can enhance your protagonist’s capabilities even further by multiclassing, melding the finest aspects into a distinct hybrid build.

Once you reach level two in Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ll have the chance to multiclass. Additionally, you can respec your character at the Camp by engaging with Withers, providing ample opportunities to try out new builds or reverse any undesirable choices.

Baldur’s Gate 3 Multiclass Tier List

Tier Multiclass
S Paladin / Warlock – Fighter / Barbarian – Sorcerer / Warlock
A Cleric / Sorcerer – Rogue / Ranger – Fighter / Rogue – Bard / Rogue
B Paladin/Sorcerer – Monk / Rogue

Top Classes for Multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3

The following are the rankings and details for the most effective multiclass options in Baldur’s Gate 3.

  • S = The premier multiclasses that offer outstanding synergy and complement each other’s playstyles.
  • A =These multiclasses are solid choices, even if they don’t always align perfectly with each other’s stats, each providing newfound power and versatility in gameplay.
  • B =Though not the top multiclasses in the game, they can offer unique traits appealing for players seeking unconventional character designs that might not be fully optimized for higher difficulty levels.

The Paladin, Warlock, Fighter, and Rogue are often regarded as the best classes for multiclassing because they offer beneficial abilities at low levels applicable across various builds. They typically pair favorably with non-spellcaster classes, with some exceptions.

Despite updates that have minorly improved classes like the Monk, their core content remains consistent, ensuring these builds are effective across different patches.

Best Multiclass Builds in BG3 Explained

S-Tier Multiclass Options

Here, you’ll find specifics for efficiently constructing these class combinations in Baldur’s Gate 3.

Paladin/Warlock

Baldur's Gate 3 screenshot
Larian Studios

Empower Wyll with holy powers to counteract Mizora’s influence.

This unique build harkens back to D&D 5e. How can you be a divine knight and simultaneously make a pact with a dark, supernatural entity?

Develop a fascinating backstory, and you will unlock one of the game’s leading builds. The Warlock’s capacity to restore spell slots during a short rest allows free use of leveled spells. Additionally, mastering Eldritch Blast, the strongest long-range cantrip in the game, is a significant advantage.

This combination permits you to minimize your Strength stat, but reaching that point takes some time. Once you achieve Warlock level 3, opting for Pact of the Blade enables you to employ your Charisma modifier for attacks, transforming you into a socially skilled character with considerable combat prowess.

For optimal performance, consider the Oath of Vengeance Paladin/Fiend Warlock blend. Oath of Vengeance provides numerous advantageous combat maneuvers and debuff spells, while The Fiend offers Dark One’s Blessing, which generates temporary hit points when you defeat an enemy.

The recommended level spread is Paladin 7/Warlock 5. This combination grants you Extra Attack, Aura of Protection, and a subclass feature from the Paladin while providing level 3 spells from the Warlock.

Pros Cons
Excellent synergy enhancing melee attacks with magic Limited access to higher-level abilities due to dual spellcasters
Access to one of the best ranged cantrips available Heavy reliance on low-level spell slots throughout gameplay
Effective full armor build for spellcasters Challenging to justify in-character
Versatile stat spread for interactions outside combat Only two potential Feats

The suggested level progression for this build is as follows:

Class & Level Abilities
Paladin 1 Higher max hit points, armor & weapon proficiencies, Lay on Hands, Divine Sense, Subclass (Oath of Vengeance), Channel Oath
Warlock 1 Access to Eldritch Blast, arcane spells, spell slots refresh on short rest, Subclass (Fiend)
Warlock 2 Eldritch Invocations (Agonizing Blast + Repelling Blast)
Warlock 3 Pact Boon (Pact of the Blade)
Paladin 2 Paladin spells, Divine Smite, Fighting Style (Dueling)
Paladin 3 Divine Health, Subclass Feature (Abjure Enemy & Vow of Enmity)
Paladin 4 Lay on Hands Charge, Feat (Durable)
Paladin 5 Extra Attack, Subclass Feature (additional spells)
Warlock 4 Extra Cantrip, Feat (Ability Score Improvement to Charisma)
Warlock 5 Deepened Pact, Extra Eldritch Invocation (Mire the Mind)
Paladin 6 Aura of Protection
Paladin 7 Subclass Feature (Relentless Avenger)

Fighter/Barbarian

Karlach in Baldur's Gate 3
Dexerto

The Fighter and Barbarian classes grant significant early advantages, though they may become less engaging later. By combining them, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

The Fighter contributes superior armor proficiencies, Second Wind, and Action Surge. In contrast, the Barbarian enhances your hit points, Rage, and resistances to various damage types, making you a formidable force in combat.

The optimal pairing is Battle Master Fighter with Berserker Barbarian. The Battle Master offers various combat abilities to inflict debuffs on opponents, while Berserker grants access to stronger Rages and new attacks.

A suitable level distribution is Barbarian 8/Fighter 4, which provides Feral Instinct, two Feats, and the level 6 subclass feature, while the Fighter obtains their subclass, a Feat, and key low-level powers. Alternatively, you can choose Barbarian 9/Fighter 3 to swap Brutal Critical for a Feat.

Pros Cons
Action Surge paired with Rage allows for devastating damage rounds Barbarian’s Unarmored Defense becomes ineffective
High hit points and AC enhance your survivability during combat Focus primarily on melee rather than ranged combat

The recommended level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Barbarian 1 High starting hit points, Rage, Unarmored Defense
Fighter 1 Increased proficiencies, Fighting Style (Great Weapon Fighting), Second Wind
Fighter 2 Action Surge
Fighter 3 Battle Master Subclass (Precision Attack, Menacing Attack, Riposte)
Fighter 4 Feat (Great Weapon Master)
Fighter 5 Extra Attack
Barbarian 2 Danger Sense, Reckless Attack
Barbarian 3 Subclass (Berserker)
Barbarian 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Strength)
Barbarian 5 Fast Movement
Barbarian 6 Mindless Rage
Barbarian 7 Feral Instinct

Sorcerer/Warlock

Gale in Baldur's Gate 3.
Larian Studios

This Charisma-focused class pairing is incredibly potent in Dungeons & Dragons, and this power carries over into Baldur’s Gate, even if certain spells may be absent from the game.

Gaining levels in Sorcerer grants your Warlock access to more spells and improved usage through Metamagic. Conversely, the Warlock class provides additional armor proficiencies, higher hit points, and the revered Eldritch Blast cantrip.

The goal is to primarily invest in Sorcerer while taking two levels in Warlock, ensuring access to Eldritch Blast and Agonizing Blast. The final distribution would ideally be Sorcerer 10/Warlock 2. Although this setup means missing out on level 6 spells, you’ll have the best cantrip at your disposal.

For subclasses, Storm Sorcery offers an exceptional flying escape ability, while The Fiend provides extra hit points through Dark One’s Blessing.

Pros Cons
Access to Eldritch Blast allows for an effective weapon when conserving spell slots No availability of high-level spells outside of magical items
Charisma synergy ensures utility beyond combat Dual role as arcane spellcasters means forgoing other class abilities

The suggested level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Warlock 1 Higher Hit Points + Armor Proficiencies, Eldritch Blast, Subclass (Fiend)
Warlock 2 Eldritch Invocations (Agonizing Blast + Repelling Blast)
Sorcerer 1 Sorcerer Spells, Subclass (Storm Sorcery)
Sorcerer 2 Sorcery Points, Metamagic (Careful Spell + Twinned Spell)
Sorcerer 3 Metamagic (Quickened Spell)
Sorcerer 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Charisma)
Sorcerer 5
Sorcerer 6 Heart of the Storm, Heart of the Storm: Resistance
Sorcerer 7
Sorcerer 8 Feat (War Caster)
Sorcerer 9
Sorcerer 10 Metamagic (Subtle Spell)

A-Tier Multiclass Options

While these class combinations aren’t the absolute best, they remain good selections for multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3.

Cleric/Sorcerer

Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

Shadowheart can master thunder & lightning with a respec.

These storm masters make exceptional spellcasters thanks to their ability to wield thunder and lightning through powerful spells.

The strategy involves taking two levels in Tempest Domain Cleric and 10 levels in Storm Sorcery Sorcerer. The Cleric levels add more armor options, while following the divine path provides Wrath of the Storm (a powerful reaction attack) and the mighty Destructive Wrath.

Destructive Wrath empowers your Thunder or Lightning spells by maximizing their damage when using Channel Divinity. You’ll deal massive damage with spells like Lightning Bolt while reaping the benefits of the Storm Sorcery subclass for increased electrical prowess.

Pros Cons
Amazing Thunder or Lightning damage capabilities Limited access to higher level spells aside from magic items or scrolls
Armor proficiencies and additional hit points improve survivability Reduced healing potential

The suggested level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Cleric 1 Increased Hit Points + Armor Proficiencies, Subclass (Tempest), Domain Spells
Cleric 2 Channel Divinity, Turn Undead, Subclass Feature (Destructive Wrath)
Sorcerer 1 Sorcerer Spells, Subclass (Storm Sorcery)
Sorcerer 2 Sorcery Points, Metamagic (Careful Spell + Twinned Spell)
Sorcerer 3 Metamagic (Quickened Spell)
Sorcerer 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Charisma)
Sorcerer 5
Sorcerer 6 Heart of the Storm, Heart of the Storm: Resistance
Sorcerer 7
Sorcerer 8 Feat (War Caster)
Sorcerer 9
Sorcerer 10 Metamagic (Subtle Spell)

Rogue/Ranger

BG3 Last Light Inn
Larian Studios

The Rogue is capable of inflicting significant damage in combat, and its potential is further amplified by merging with the Ranger due to their outstanding synergy.

The ideal blend is Hunter Ranger 7/Assassin Rogue 5. The Ranger levels bestow Defensive Tactics, Extra Attack, updated versions of Favored Enemy and Natural Explorer, alongside spells. In contrast, the Rogue grants you a 3d6 Sneak Attack, Cunning Action, and Uncanny Dodge.

This class combination is perfectly suited for either powerful ranged builds or dual-wielders, especially when emphasizing Stealth.

Pros Cons
Highly mobile character with formidable ranged options promotes survivability Cannot attain maximum Sneak Attack damage or Evasion
Extra Attack enhances your lethality compared to a typical Rogue. Limited access to higher-level Ranger spells

The recommended level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Ranger 1 Higher Hit Points + Armor Proficiencies, Favored Enemy (Bounty Hunter), Natural Explorer (Wasteland Wanderer: Fire)
Rogue 1 Sneak Attack 1d6, Expertise (Stealth, Sleight of Hand)
Rogue 2 Cunning Action
Ranger 2 Ranger Spells, Fighting Style (Archery)
Rogue 3 Subclass (Assassin), Sneak Attack 2d6
Ranger 3 Subclass (Hunter), Hunter’s Prey (Colossus Slayer)
Ranger 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Dexterity)
Rogue 4 Feat (Sharpshooter)
Ranger 5 Extra Attack
Rogue 5 Sneak Attack 3d6, Uncanny Dodge
Ranger 6 Favored Enemy (Keeper of the Veil), Natural Explorer (Wasteland Wanderer: Poison)
Ranger 7 Defensive Tactics (Multiattack Defense)

Fighter/Rogue

Minsk in Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

The Fighter/Rogue combination presents a robust mix, akin to the Ranger/Rogue pairing but with a different level distribution. You’re adding the potency of Sneak Attack and increased mobility to your warrior build.

Aiming for Battle Master Fighter 5/Assassin Rogue 7 offers more armor and weapon proficiencies, Second Wind, Action Surge, a Feat, Battle Master maneuvers, and Extra Attack, while the Rogue contributes Cunning Action, 4d6 Sneak Attack, Uncanny Dodge, and Evasion.

This build shifts the focus away from Stealth; however, the power of Sneak Attack permits a much stronger frontline fighter, assuming you can gain Advantage on your attacks.

Pros Cons
Cunning Action along with an armored melee build enhances your movement options beyond a typical Fighter Finesse weapon requirements for Sneak Attack may restrict you from some of the game’s top melee weapons
Sneak Attack can be devastating in the hands of a close-combat build. Natural armor benefits will be diminished

The suggested level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Fighter 1 Higher Hit Points + Armor Proficiencies, Second Wind, Fighting Style (Dueling)
Rogue 1 Sneak Attack 1d6, Expertise (Deception, Stealth)
Fighter 2 Action Surge
Rogue 2 Cunning Action
Fighter 3 Battle Master Subclass (Precision Attack, Menacing Attack, Riposte)
Rogue 3 Assassin Subclass, Sneak Attack 2d6
Fighter 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Dexterity)
Fighter 5 Extra Attack
Rogue 4 Feat (Defensive Duelist)
Rogue 5 Sneak Attack 3d6, Uncanny Dodge
Rogue 6 Expertise (Sleight of Hand, Persuasion)
Rogue 7 Evasion, Sneak Attack 4d6

Bard/Rogue

Alfira from Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

The ultimate skill master combination; this blend of classes ensures you never need to worry about failing skill checks, which is excellent for supporting warriors who take on the combat.

The most effective combination here is College of Lore Bard 9/Arcane Trickster Rogue 3. The Rogue gains a 2d6 Sneak Attack, Cunning Action, and some additional spells, while the Bard accesses a broad array of spells, Cutting Words, several skill proficiencies, and extra spells from diverse lists.

The goal is to leverage the Rogue’s extensive skill selection along with the Bard’s Expertise, Jack of All Trades, and Bonus Proficiencies, which will enhance every skill check in the game. With Charisma as the focal point, you’ll also excel in evading danger.

Pros Cons
Best skill user outside combat in the game No access to high-level Bard spells outside of items
Capable of enhancing both melee and ranged weapon performance with Sneak Attack Does not possess the Charisma synergy typical of other multiclass builds
Cunning Action aids in escaping contending enemies.

The suggested level progression for this build is as follows:

Class & Level Abilities
Bard 1 Bard Spells, Bardic Inspiration
Rogue 1 Sneak Attack 1d6, Expertise (Deception, Persuasion)
Rogue 2 Cunning Action
Rogue 3 Arcane Trickster Subclass, Sneak Attack 2d6
Bard 2 Song of Rest, Jack of All Trades
Bard 3 Expertise (Performance, Stealth), College of Lore Subclass
Bard 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Charisma)
Bard 5 Font of Inspiration, Improved Bardic Inspiration
Bard 6 Countercharm
Bard 7
Bard 8 Feat (Actor)
Bard 9

B-Tier Multiclass Options

The B-tier multiclass combinations may not represent the finest choices available, but they can still be fun options to explore if you’re passionate about a specific combination.

Paladin/Sorcerer

Minthara location in Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

The fusion of Paladin and Sorcerer allows you to wield strength and magic.

This unconventional pairing focuses on employing Sorcerer’s core mechanics to maximize the effectiveness of Smite spells. You can convert Sorcery Points into spell slots to maintain continuous casting of potent Smites in battles.

The suggested mix here is Oath of the Ancients Paladin 6/Storm Sorcery Sorcerer 6. The Paladin yields armor and weapon proficiencies, Extra Attack, and Aura of Protection, while the Sorcerer adds level 3 spells, numerous Metamagic options, and the secondary subclass benefit.

This combination allows you to unleash a multitude of strong melee attacks amplified by magic while simultaneously casting arcane spells at range.

Pros Cons
Sorcery Points facilitate increased usage of Smite spells Deprived of high-level Paladin and Sorcerer spells
Enhanced hit points and armor proficiencies create a sturdier character than the average spellcaster Only two Feats available

The suggested level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Paladin 1 Higher max hit points, armor & weapon proficiencies, Lay on Hands, Divine Sense, Subclass (Oath of Vengeance), Channel Oath
Sorcerer 1 Sorcerer Spells, Subclass (Storm Sorcery)
Paladin 2 Paladin spells, Divine Smite, Fighting Style (Defense)
Sorcerer 2 Sorcery Points, Metamagic (Careful Spell + Twinned Spell)
Paladin 3 Divine Health, Subclass Feature (Abjure Enemy & Vow of Enmity)
Sorcerer 3 Metamagic (Quickened Spell)
Paladin 4 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Charisma)
Sorcerer 4 Feat (War Caster)
Paladin 5 Extra Attack, Subclass Feature (additional spells)
Sorcerer 5
Paladin 6 Aura of Protection
Sorcerer 6 Heart of the Storm, Heart of the Storm: Resistance

Monk/Rogue

Baldur's Gate 3 Monk
Larian Studios

Enhance the Monk class with some Sneak Attack capabilities.

A straightforward mix that turns you into a nimble fighter! You can achieve this by going Open Hand Monk 9/Thief Rogue 3, preparing to strike your foes with powerful unarmed attacks.

The Thief subclass provides an additional Bonus Action for use in combat, which can be effectively combined with Flurry of Blows to create extra attacks. Adding Sneak Attack and Cunning Action further augments the already potent melee abilities of the Open Hand Monk, making this subclass one of the strongest options.

Pros Cons
Excellent Dexterity synergy between both classes No armor proficiencies from the Rogue class advantage
More out-of-combat utility compared to a standard Monk Rogue’s reliance on high Wisdom could detract from traditional Rogue’s strengths
The Thief’s extra Bonus Action can further amplify Flurry of Blows

The recommended level progression for this build is:

Class & Level Abilities
Monk 1 Flurry of Blows, Ki, Unarmoured Defense, Martial Arts
Rogue 1 Sneak Attack 1d6, Expertise (Stealth, Sleight of Hand)
Rogue 2 Cunning Action
Rogue 3 Thief Subclass, Sneak Attack 2d6
Monk 2 Unarmoured Movement, Patient Defence, Step of the Wind: Dash, Step of the Wind: Disengage
Monk 3 Deflect Missiles, Martial Arts: Deft Strikes (1d6), Way of the Open Hand Subclass
Monk 4 Feat (Tavern Brawler), Slow Fall
Monk 5 Extra Attack, Stunning Strike
Monk 6 Improved Unarmoured Movement, Ki-Empowered Strikes, Manifestation of Body Subclass Feature
Monk 7 Evasion, Stillness of Mind
Monk 8 Feat (Ability Score Improvement – Dexterity)
Monk 9 Advanced Unarmoured Movement, Martial Arts: Deft Strikes (1d8), Ki Resonation Subclass Feature

How to Multiclass in Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3: List of playable races and their abilities
Larian Studios

Explore various ways to multiclass in Baldur’s Gate 3.

When you create your character in Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ll start at level 1. After that, whenever you level up, you may choose to multiclass. To do so, simply navigate left or right on the level-up screen when your class and abilities are displayed, allowing you to select a different class for your new level.

After meeting Withers in your party, you can speak with him and pay a fee to respec your character. This will enable you to redistribute your previously gained levels as desired using the same method outlined above.

Is Multiclassing Worth it in Baldur’s Gate 3? – Pros & Cons

Baldur's Gate 3 screenshot
Larian Studios

Gale may not thrive when straying from the Wizard path.

The primary advantage of multiclassing is the opportunity to unlock new class features and proficiencies that would typically be unavailable in a single class. This can translate to spellcasters enjoying better hit points and armor options, fighters gaining new skills outside of battles, and stealthy characters obtaining diverse magical abilities.

It’s advisable that new players, unfamiliar with D&D mechanics, steer clear of multiclassing. Although it’s unlikely to create an unplayable character, understanding the mechanics and experimenting with different builds is more beneficial for those who grasp the game’s foundations.

Two significant downsides accompany multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3. The first involves primary spellcasters (Bard, Cleric, Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard) who miss out on high-level spells and a complete allotment of spell slots, which can be a substantial drawback in the late game.

The secondary drawback is a reduced number of features obtained, leading to prolonged progression in acquiring new abilities. However, this often isn’t overly punishing since many Feats in Baldur’s Gate 3 can be lackluster and easily bypassed.

That encompasses everything you need to know about multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3. For additional gameplay insights, check out our guides on the best builds for Shadowheart, how to locate Halsin, the possibility of romancing multiple companions, and reviving fallen allies.

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