Can I Multiclass a Sorcerer? A Comprehensive Guide to Sorcerer Multiclassing in D&D 5e

Yes, absolutely! You can multiclass into a sorcerer in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e). Multiclassing is a core mechanic in 5e that allows you to combine levels from different classes, creating a character with a unique blend of abilities and playstyles. However, like any multiclassing decision, it requires careful consideration to ensure you’re creating a build that’s both effective and fun to play. The sorcerer, with its innate magic and powerful metamagic abilities, presents some exciting (and potentially challenging) multiclass options. Let’s delve into the details and explore how to make the most of multiclassing with a sorcerer.

Understanding Sorcerer Multiclassing

Multiclassing into a sorcerer (or out of it) isn’t just about grabbing a few extra spells. It’s about understanding how your class features interact, how spellcasting scales, and how to best utilize your character’s chosen strengths.

Requirements for Multiclassing into Sorcerer

To multiclass into sorcerer, you need a Charisma score of at least 13. This is the primary ability score for sorcerers, and the game requires you to meet this minimum to reflect the innate nature of their power. If you plan to multiclass out of sorcerer and into another class, you will need to have at least a 13 in the ability required for that class.

The Appeal of Multiclassing as a Sorcerer

Sorcerers are often considered one of the best classes for multiclassing, primarily because they gain a subclass at level 1. This grants immediate access to powerful abilities and a distinctive flavor right away, making even a single-level dip into sorcerer very attractive. The Divine Soul Sorcerer, for example, is a popular choice for its spellcasting and its Favored by the Gods feature, which can provide a valuable boost to saving throws. This instant power is a big draw for those looking to broaden their character’s skill set.

Spellcasting and Multiclassing

One of the most intricate aspects of multiclassing as a spellcaster is understanding how spell slots and spell progression work. When you multiclass between classes that have access to spell slots, those levels are added together in a weighted formula to determine your overall spellcasting level. This level is used to determine the number and level of spell slots you have.

Combining Spell Slots

Think of it like this: each class contributes a portion to your overall spellcasting ability. You don’t necessarily get access to spells as though you were a higher level in a single class. For instance, a sorcerer 10 / wizard 10 character would have the same number of spell slots as a sorcerer 20 or wizard 20, but the ability to learn spells is tied to the individual levels of each class. This ensures that multiclassed spellcasters aren’t drastically more powerful than their single-classed counterparts when it comes to spell slot availability.

Choosing Spells

You learn or prepare spells based on your levels in the specific classes. This means a 6th-level artificer/sorcerer would learn artificer spells based on their artificer level and sorcerer spells based on their sorcerer level, up to the spell levels they have access to from each class.

Sorcerer Multiclass Options

While the possibilities are vast, some multiclass options for sorcerers stand out as particularly synergistic.

Popular Multiclass Options for Sorcerers

• Warlock: Often referred to as a “Sorlock,” this combination is known for its potent Eldritch Blast cantrip, which can be further enhanced by the sorcerer’s Metamagic. The ability to spam this powerful blast makes it a very popular choice.

• Paladin: The Paladin’s abilities, especially their use of Charisma for spellcasting, make it a great martial multiclass. This gives you access to low-level divine spellcasting and healing, significantly boosting your flexibility.

• Fighter: For a more martial focus, a dip into fighter can give you armor proficiency and fighting styles to enhance your survivability and combat efficiency. This works best with a high Dexterity and Constitution.

• Bard: A bard/sorcerer combination gives you a great mix of offense and versatility. Bards bring additional spells and skills to complement a sorcerer’s power. You do sacrifice some high-level spellcasting, but gain useful cantrips in return.

• Barbarian: While it may seem counterintuitive, the Wild Magic Barbarian can provide a fun and chaotic build, with the Barbarian’s rage further enhancing the wild magic surges.

• Monk: Specifically, Shadow Monk paired with a Wild Magic Sorcerer can create a sneaky trickster character with surprising magical and martial capabilities.

Is It Worth Multiclassing as a Sorcerer?

It may seem strange to multiclass a character best suited to filling one role. However, carefully chosen classes or subclasses can add extremely valuable abilities. Multiclassing can improve a sorcerer’s functionality in their main role by granting access to things they lack, while also expanding their overall versatility.

When to Multiclass

It is recommended to wait until at least level 5 in your base class before considering multiclassing. This ensures you have access to core features and capabilities from your initial class before adding another. The decision to multiclass is often made to fill gaps in a character’s capabilities, such as a poor action economy, low Armor Class (AC), or lacking spellcasting options.

Limitations of Multiclassing

While multiclassing can offer many benefits, there are drawbacks to consider. You might delay access to higher level spells from your main class, or miss some capstone abilities that define them. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each potential combination.

FAQs on Multiclassing Sorcerers

Here are some frequently asked questions about multiclassing a sorcerer, to help clear up any confusion:

How do I know if multiclassing is right for my sorcerer?

Multiclassing is beneficial when you want to address weaknesses in your build, gain new abilities, or create a unique playstyle. If you have a strong sense of what you want to achieve with your character, then multiclassing could be a great choice.

Do I get more spells if I multiclass?

You do not get more spells known just by multiclassing. Your spells known are determined by the class levels in each class. You gain more spell slots through the multiclassing formula.

Can a multiclass sorcerer wear armor?

Yes, you can wear armor if you have proficiency in it, gained from your starting class, feats or from the second class you choose. If you try to wear armor without proficiency you can not cast spells. The Mage Armor spell or a Dragonborn’s natural armor are alternative ways of increasing your armor class.

Do sorcerers need a long rest?

Yes, sorcerers regain all expended spell slots when they finish a long rest. Long rests are crucial for all spellcasters, as they allow you to recover your ability to use your magic.

Can sorcerers dual-wield staves?

You can dual-wield staves, but you cannot attack with both of them without specific features or penalties. It might look cool, but it’s not particularly effective.

What is the best class to mix with a sorcerer?

While personal preference plays a big role, Paladin is the best martial multiclass. Warlock is also a popular choice for its synergy, especially regarding Eldritch Blast and Metamagic.

What is the best race for a sorcerer?

While the rules have changed, Tieflings are often considered one of the best races for a sorcerer, due to their Charisma boost. High Elves are also a good option for Magicka Sorcerers, thanks to their buffs to stats.

What Metamagic is best for sorcerers?

Quickened Spell is generally considered the most versatile Metamagic option, as it allows you to cast a spell as a bonus action, giving you more flexibility each turn.

Is a sorcerer a good class for beginners?

Yes. Sorcerers are fairly straightforward to play, with easy-to-understand combat cantrips and spells. Unlike Wizards, their magic is innate, meaning there is no complex spell preparation.

Do you get two subclasses when you multiclass?

No, you cannot choose multiple subclasses for the same class. You get one subclass for each unique class you take levels in.

Is multiclassing always better?

Multiclassing isn’t always the best option. It’s best when you’re looking to fill a specific role or address a weakness. Single class characters are often just as viable and more efficient in their primary role.

What level is best to multiclass in 5e?

It’s recommended to wait until at least level 5 in your base class before multiclassing, as you want to gain core class abilities before adding another.

Is there a limit to how many classes I can multiclass into?

There is no hard limit on how many classes you can possess, but DMs may impose their own limitations. The patience of your DM is the only real limit.

Do you lose spell slots when you multiclass?

No, you don’t lose spell slots, but the formula used to calculate them is different. You determine your spell slots by combining the levels of your spellcasting classes.

How does multiclassing two full casters work?

Full caster classes combine levels to determine spell slots. A 10/10 sorcerer/wizard has the same spell slots as either a level 20 sorcerer or wizard. Spell selection is based on class levels, not your combined spellcaster level.

Conclusion

Multiclassing as a sorcerer in 5e offers a plethora of exciting possibilities, from synergistic spell combinations to unique character builds. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to D&D, taking the time to understand the mechanics of multiclassing can enhance your gameplay experience and unlock new dimensions in your character’s abilities. Remember, the most successful multiclasses come from careful planning and a clear vision of what you want to achieve with your character. Happy adventuring!