The Perils of the Path Less Traveled: Downsides of Multiclassing in D&D
Multiclassing in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) offers the enticing prospect of combining the strengths of different classes, creating a character that’s both unique and versatile. However, this path is not without its pitfalls. The primary downside of multiclassing is that it delays the progression of your primary class, causing you to fall behind in accessing higher-level class features and spells. This can lead to a character that is arguably weaker than a single-class character of the same overall level, particularly for spellcasters. Other significant downsides include the loss of certain proficiencies, such as saving throws, and the potential for creating a character with an incoherent strategy. Let’s delve into the reasons why multiclassing might not always be the best choice.
The Spellcaster’s Dilemma
One of the most significant drawbacks of multiclassing is how it affects spellcaster progression. Classes like Bards, Clerics, Druids, Sorcerers, and Wizards rely heavily on their spellcasting abilities. Each level in these classes unlocks access to more powerful spells and additional spell slots. Multiclassing a spellcaster delays access to these crucial improvements.
Delayed Access to Powerful Magic
For instance, a Wizard that multiclasses into a Fighter at level 6 will have to wait longer to access 4th-level spells. This means they will be stuck with lower-level options for a while, putting them at a disadvantage compared to a pure Wizard of the same overall level. These delays aren’t just about spells either; many class features that scale with levels, like a Druid’s Wild Shape also suffer. Ultimately, delayed access to powerful spells and class features can make a multiclass spellcaster less effective overall in combat.
The Loss of High-Level Spells
Furthermore, multiclassing can lead to a situation where your character never gains access to the highest level spells of your primary spellcasting class. For example, if a Wizard takes 5 levels in Fighter, they will likely never attain 9th-level spells which are often game-changing. This is a severe limitation, as high-level spells represent some of the most powerful and versatile tools in the game.
Loss of Proficiencies
When you multiclass, you don’t automatically gain all the proficiencies of your new class. This is a notable downside.
Saving Throw Proficiencies
Perhaps the most significant proficiency loss is the fact that you never gain additional Saving Throw proficiencies when multiclassing. This means you’ll be stuck with the saving throws that your starting class provided. This could leave you vulnerable to certain types of attacks and effects if you haven’t carefully considered your character build.
Weapon and Armor Proficiencies
You will also usually receive a reduced set of Weapon and Armor Proficiencies. For instance, a Wizard who multiclasses into a Barbarian may not gain proficiency in heavy armor, meaning they still rely on their weaker base armor when multiclassing. This can limit the types of weapons and armor your character can effectively use, reducing their combat effectiveness.
The “Jack of All Trades, Master of None” Pitfall
While versatility sounds good in theory, in practice, multiclassing can sometimes create a character that is neither good at one specific role or good at all the roles it tries to fill. You may find yourself spread too thin, lacking the specialization required to excel in any area. This is particularly true if you haven’t planned your build strategically.
Incoherent Strategy
A haphazard approach to multiclassing can result in a character with an incoherent strategy. For example, combining classes that rely on different ability scores (e.g., a Strength-based Barbarian with an Intelligence-based Wizard) can lead to a character that is mediocre across the board. A well-defined single class character will often be more effective due to greater specialization and synergy within that class.
The Fun Factor
It is also worth remembering that the power of the game is not the only aspect. It is also about having fun! The article mentions “Even weaker multiclasses can be great fun just because a lot of classes get their most interesting abilities within the first 5 levels of their class progression.” And this is a key factor to keep in mind. Multiclassing for fun and interesting roleplay opportunities, is a valid choice!
The Verdict
In conclusion, while multiclassing can be rewarding, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks. The delay in spell progression, loss of proficiency bonuses, and the risk of building an incoherent character are all significant downsides that should be considered before making the leap. Sometimes, the focused power of a single-class character is a far better approach than a diluted, multiclassed build.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is multiclassing always a bad idea?
No, not always. Multiclassing can be beneficial if done strategically, and if you know what you are giving up. Some class combinations can synergize well, providing a powerful and unique character. The key is to plan your multiclass carefully and with a specific goal in mind.
2. Which classes suffer the most from multiclassing?
Primary spellcasters like Bards, Clerics, Druids, Sorcerers, and Wizards tend to suffer the most due to delayed spell progression. Classes that rely heavily on high-level class features, such as the Monk, can also be negatively impacted by multiclassing.
3. Which classes are best for multiclassing?
Some common effective multiclass combinations include: Rogue/Fighter, Barbarian/Rogue, Artificer/Barbarian, Cleric/Druid, Rogue/Artificer, Artificer/Wizard, Cleric/Wizard, and Paladin/Fighter. These combinations often provide a blend of offensive, defensive, or utility capabilities.
4. Is there a limit to how many classes you can multiclass into?
No, there isn’t a limit in the rules to how many classes you can multiclass into, as long as you meet the prerequisites. Some DMs may impose house rules on this limit, but by default there is no limit to the classes you can take.
5. Do you get extra saving throw proficiencies when you multiclass?
No, you only get the saving throw proficiencies that are granted by your initial class. You do not gain new saving throws from multiclassing.
6. How does multiclassing affect spell slots?
Multiclassing doesn’t reduce your spell slots, but it does determine how many you have based on a weighted calculation of your spellcasting class levels. The rules are detailed in the Player’s Handbook. In short, your spell slots are determined by an overall calculation that combines all your spellcasting class levels but they are not all of the same level.
7. Do you get to choose a new subclass when multiclassing?
Yes, you get a subclass for each class you take. However, you cannot choose multiple subclasses from the same class. So, if you are a Wizard, then you can choose a subclass when you become a wizard and if you take a level of sorcerer, then you can choose a subclass for that too.
8. Does multiclassing give you new weapon or armor proficiencies?
You gain a limited set of weapon and armor proficiencies when multiclassing. You do not gain all of the proficiencies of the new class, just a specific subset.
9. When is a good time to multiclass?
It’s generally recommended to wait until at least level 5 in your primary class before multiclassing. This ensures that you gain access to important core features and aren’t severely weakened early on.
10. Do you get new skills when multiclassing?
Usually not. Only the Rogue, Ranger, and Bard classes offer an additional skill proficiency when multiclassing. Otherwise, you will be limited to the proficiencies you got when you first took your primary class.
11. Are there any classes that should almost never multiclass?
Monks and many full spellcasters (Wizards, Sorcerers, Clerics, Druids) are often better off as single-class characters due to their reliance on high-level class features and spell progression.
12. What is the most powerful single class in D&D?
Paladins are often regarded as one of the most powerful single classes due to their combination of martial prowess, spellcasting, and divine abilities.
13. Does multiclassing give you more cantrips?
Yes, you gain cantrips based on each class you have, but there is no overlap. If two classes grant the same cantrips, you won’t get an additional one.
14. What is the most broken multiclass combination?
There are many strong builds, but the Twilight Cleric is a frequent contender for the most broken subclass in the game by itself, and it combines well with other classes.
15. Is multiclassing better for addressing character gaps?
Yes, you should consider multiclassing when your character lacks specific skills or abilities, like poor melee attack or the need for more skills. However, carefully plan this, to ensure that you’re not creating a character with too many different skills, leaving them struggling to keep up. Multiclassing should be used to address specific weaknesses, and not just for adding random skills or abilities.