Top Ranked Multiclass Builds in Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3 provides a plethora of character classes and subclasses, but you can enhance your protagonist’s capabilities even further through multiclassing, blending the finest aspects into a personalized hybrid.

Upon reaching level two in Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ll gain the opportunity to multiclass. Additionally, you can respec your character in the Camp by engaging Withers, which allows you ample scope to experiment or retract any unsatisfactory decisions.

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

Best Classes for Multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3

The Paladin, Warlock, Fighter, and Rogue are generally the best choices for level dips. These classes offer robust abilities at lower levels, which are beneficial across various builds. They often complement non-full spellcaster classes effectively, with certain exceptions.

Below are rankings and explanations for the premier multiclass choices in Baldur’s Gate 3.

  • S = The best multiclasses to play, providing remarkable synergy and complementing each other’s styles effectively.
  • A =These multiclasses are excellent to utilize, although some might not align stat-wise, they introduce fresh and powerful dynamics.
  • B =While not top-tier multiclasses, they offer unique experiences for players pursuing specific character archetypes that may not be fully optimized for higher difficulty levels.

Although adjustments like minor buffs to classes like the Monk have occurred, the core functionalities remain largely unchanged since the launch, ensuring these builds are viable regardless of your current patch.

S-Tier Multiclass Options in Baldur’s Gate 3

A screenshot from the game Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

Empower Wyll with holy capabilities to counteract Mizora’s influence

Paladin / Warlock

This classic blend from D&D 5E presents an intriguing character dynamic. How does one embody a holy knight while also being tied to an ominous supernatural entity?

With a well-crafted backstory, you’re poised for one of the game’s most formidable builds. The Warlock’s ability to regenerate spell slots after a Short Rest enables a more extensive use of leveled spells. You’ll also excel with Eldritch Blast, which is arguably the top long-range Cantrip in the game.

This combination allows you to minimize Strength, albeit it may require some time to achieve. Upon reaching Warlock 3, choose Pact of the Blade to utilize your Charisma modifier for attacks, leading you to become a character focused on social interactions yet wielding remarkable combat skills.

Various level configurations can work, but Paladin 7/Warlock 5 is likely the most efficient. The seven Paladin levels offer Extra Attack, Aura of Protection, and a subclass feature, while the five Warlock levels grant access to higher-level spells.

Pros Cons
Excellent synergy between melee enhancements and magic Limited access to high-level abilities due to reliance on secondary spellcasters
One of the finest ranged Cantrips available Heavily reliant on lower-level spell slots
Robust armor build for spellcasters Contradictory character concept
Effective stats for out-of-combat interactions Only two Feat selections

Recommended progression for this build:

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 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 (Duelling)
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 (more spells)
Warlock 4 Extra Cantrip, Feat (Ability Score Improvement to Charisma)
Warlock 5 Deepend Pact, Extra Eldritch Invocation (Mire the Mind)
Paladin 6 Aura of Protection
Paladin 7 Subclass Feature (Relentless Avenger)

Fighter / Barbarian

Both the Barbarian and Fighter classes provide substantial early-game advantages but can become somewhat monotonous later. Merging the two offers the best of each class.

The Fighter contributes superior armor proficiencies, Second Wind, and Action Surge, while the Barbarian supplies fantastic hit points, Rage, and damage resistances, evolving you into an unstoppable tactical force.

The optimal combination is Battle Master Fighter and Berserker Barbarian. The Battle Master infuses many combat tactics you can use to debilitate foes, while Berserker offers a more potent form of Rage and additional attacks.

A solid spread is Barbarian 8/Fighter 4. The Barbarian levels grant Feral Instinct, two Feats, and a level 6 subclass feature, whereas the Fighter provides its subclass, a Feat, and remarkable low-level powers. Alternatively, Barbarian 9/Fighter 3 trades Brutal Critical for a Feat.

Pros Cons
Action Surge & Rage pairing allows for devastating combat rounds Unarmored Defense from Barbarian becomes ineffective
High hit points enhance survivability Most strategies will focus on melee instead of ranged combat

Recommended progression for this build:

Class & Level Abilities
Barbarian 1 High starting hit points, Rage, Unarmored Defense
Fighter 1 More 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

This class pairing boasts significant strength in Dungeons & Dragons, and Baldur’s Gate 3 is no exception, despite some spells being absent from the game.

Both classes utilize Charisma, with the Sorcerer adding spells and enhancing spell utility through Metamagic. Conversely, the Warlock contribution results in added armor proficiencies, increased hit points, and the invaluable Eldritch Blast.

The goal should be to mainly play as a Sorcerer while dipping two levels into Warlock to gain access to Eldritch Blast and Agonizing Blast. The ideal distribution is Sorcerer 10/Warlock 2. While you miss out on level 6 spells, the best Cantrip remains within your reach.

For subclasses, Storm Sorcery grants robust flying capabilities, whereas The Fiend offers extra hit points through Dark One’s Blessing.

Pros Cons
Eldritch Blast access provides an effective weapon without expending spell slots No access to high-level spells beyond magic items
Charisma compatibility ensures utility outside combat Dual arcane spellcasting dilutes features from other class types

Recommended progression for this build:

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 in Baldur’s Gate 3

Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

Shadowheart can wield the elements of thunder & lightning with a respec

Cleric / Sorcerer

These storm masters rank among the top spellcasters in the game, thanks to their command of thunder and lightning spells.

The strategy is to take two levels in Tempest Domain Cleric followed by ten levels in Storm Sorcery Sorcerer. The Cleric levels offer additional armor proficiencies, while the primary motive for this path is acquiring Wrath of the Storm (a potent counter-attack ability) and Destructive Wrath.

Destructive Wrath allows you to maximize the damage of Thunder or Lightning spells by expending Channel Divinity, enabling incredible damage outputs with spells like Lightning Bolt. You’ll also enjoy the advantages of the Storm Sorcery subclass, enhancing your electric spells further.

Pros Cons
Exceptional Thunder or Lightning spell caster No access to high-level spells outside of magic items or scrolls
Armor proficiency and bonus hit points enhance survivability Limited healing capabilities

Recommended progression for this build:

Class & Level Abilities
Cleric 1 Higher 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

While the Rogue excels in damage output, the combination with the Ranger amplifies their potential significantly due to their exceptional synergy.

The ideal split is Hunter Ranger 7/Assassin Rogue 5. The Ranger levels deliver Defensive Tactics, Extra Attack, updated Favored Enemy, Natural Explorer, and access to spells, while the Rogue levels provide a robust 3d6 Sneak Attack, Cunning Action, and Uncanny Dodge.

This blend is highly suitable for powerful ranged or dual-wield builds, particularly when focusing on the Stealth skill.

Pros Cons
Highly mobile characters with potent ranged capabilities enhance survivability Limited maximum Sneak Attack damage and Evasion
Extra Attack increases lethality beyond a standard Rogue Restricted access to high-level Ranger spells

Recommended progression for this build:

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 Defence)

Fighter / Rogue

Similar to the Ranger/Rogue combination, the Fighter/Rogue duo is impressive as well, with a shift in the level allocation. By integrating Sneak Attack and heightened mobility into a fighter structure, you enhance your combat capabilities.

This build revolves around Battle Master Fighter 5/Assassin Rogue 7, resulting in numerous armor & weapon proficiencies, Second Wind, Action Surge, a Feat from the Battle Master powers, and Extra Attack, while the Rogue provides Cunning Attack, 4d6 Sneak Attack, Uncanny Dodge, and Evasion.

Focusing less on Stealth, this combination benefits considerably from Sneak Attack, granting you heightened strength as a frontline fighter, as long as you can manage to gain Advantage on your attacks.

Pros Cons
Cunning Action plus an armored melee build enhances movement options compared to a standard Fighter Finesse weapon requirements for Sneak Attack limit the use of some of the best melee weapons
The potential for devastating damage with Sneak Attack in close combat. Limited benefits from heavy armor

Recommended progression for this build:

Class & Level Abilities
Fighter 1 Increased Hit Points + Armor Proficiencies, Second Wind, Fighting Style (Duelling)
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

This combination of classes transforms the character into a master of skills. With this blend, you can ensure that skill checks never fail, providing excellent support when paired with a group of warriors focused on combat.

The ideal fusion is College of Lore Bard 9/Arcane Trickster Rogue 3. The Rogue grants 2d6 Sneak Attack, Cunning Action, and a few additional spells, while the Bard benefits from numerous spells, Cutting Words, and various skill proficiencies.

Employing the Rogue’s skill range alongside the Bard’s abilities, such as Jack of All Trades and Bonus Proficiencies, gives you enhanced advantages across every skill. When combined with the Bard’s Charisma focus, you’re set to navigate dangers effectively.

Pros Cons
Top choice for skill proficiency outside combat No access to high-level Bard spells outside of items
Boost your melee & ranged capabilities with Sneak Attack Less Charisma synergy compared to other multiclass setups
Cunning Action proves beneficial for dodging enemy encirclement.

Recommended progression for this build:

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 in Baldur’s Gate 3

baldur's gate 3 monk
Larian Studios

The Monk can gain benefits from Sneak Attacks

Paladin / Sorcerer

This unique combination revolves around using the Sorcerer’s Sorcery Points feature to optimize Smite spells. By converting Sorcery Points into spell slots, you can consistently unleash potent Smites in combat.

The fusion here works ideally with Oath of the Ancients Paladin 6/Storm Sorcery Sorcerer 6. The Paladin provides armor & weapon proficiencies, Extra Attack, and Aura of Protection, while the Sorcerer levels grant level 3 spells, a host of Metamagic options, and your second subclass feature.

This union allows for a wide range of powerful melee combat, complemented by magic damage from spells.

Pros Cons
Sorcery Points facilitate more frequent use of Smite spells Limited access to high-level Paladin and Sorcerer spells
Higher hit points and more armor mean greater durability compared to the average caster Only two Feats will be available

Recommended progression for this build:

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 (Defence)
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 (more spells)
Sorcerer 5
Paladin 6 Aura of Protection
Sorcerer 6 Heart of the Storm, Heart of the Storm: Resistance

Monk / Rogue

This straightforward combination transforms you into a nimble fighter. Adopting Open Hand Monk 9/Thief Rogue 3 allows you to battle effectively using melee skills. You’ll emerge as a Dexterity-based character excelling in close quarters.

The Thief subclass bestows an additional Bonus Action, which can be synergized with Flurry of Blows for extra attacks. Coupled with Sneak Attack and Cunning Action, the Open Hand Monk’s melee capabilities shine through.

Pros Cons
Excellent Dexterity compatibility across both classes No advantage from Rogue’s armor proficiencies
More uses outside combat than a typical Monk High Wisdom as a requirement often deemed a dump stat for Rogues
Thief’s extra Bonus Action enhances Flurry of Blow attacks

Recommended progression for this build:

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: All playable races, subraces & their abilities
Larian Studios

Multiple methods exist for multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3

When creating a character in Baldur’s Gate 3, you begin with a level 1 protagonist. From that moment, you can multiclass upon leveling up. Simply navigate to the level up screen and use left or right to select a different class for your next level allocation.

Once Withers joins your party, speaking with him and providing some currency will allow you to respec a character. This replenishes all levels previously acquired, following the method described above.

Should You Multiclass in Baldur’s Gate 3 – Pros & Cons

A screenshot from the game Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios

Gale may not gain significant advantages from straying from the Wizard path

The primary advantage of multiclassing is the access to new class features and proficiencies typically unavailable. This includes enhancing spellcasters with extra hit points and better armor options, granting warriors supplementary skills for out-of-battle scenarios, and enabling stealth-focused characters to wield varied magic.

However, it’s recommended that beginners unfamiliar with D&D avoid multiclassing. While you may not create an unplayable character, experimenting with builds benefits those who already have a grasp of the game mechanics.

Two main drawbacks exist regarding multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3. Firstly, primary spellcasters (Bard, Cleric, Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard) will miss out on their strongest spells and complete spell slot allotment. This limitation can severely impact gameplay in the later game stages.

The secondary drawback is limited acquisition of features, resulting in a slower pace of leveling up. However, this isn’t overly harsh, as many of the Feats available in Baldur’s Gate 3 are subpar and can often be bypassed.

That concludes the essential information on multiclassing in Baldur’s Gate 3. For additional insights into the game, explore the best build for Shadowheart, methods to locate Halsin, possibilities of romancing multiple companions, and strategies for reviving companions.

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