The Divine Multiclass: Unleashing the Full Potential of Your Paladin
The Paladin, a beacon of righteousness and martial prowess, is a formidable class on its own. However, the world of Dungeons & Dragons is vast, and sometimes, the most compelling stories and powerful builds arise from blending different class paths. So, what multiclass goes well with Paladin? While several options can be viable, Warlock and Bard stand out as the most popular and effective choices, each offering distinct advantages that complement the Paladin’s strengths.
Unlocking Divine Synergies: Popular Paladin Multiclass Options
Here’s a more detailed look at the best multiclass options for Paladins, exploring the strengths each offers:
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Warlock: The Charisma synergy between Paladin and Warlock is a major draw. The Hexblade subclass for Warlock is particularly powerful, allowing Paladins to use Charisma for weapon attacks, greatly reducing the need for Strength. Warlocks also provide short-rest spell slots for more frequent Smites, and access to powerful spells like Eldritch Blast for ranged damage. The combination creates a powerful melee combatant with potent magical abilities.
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Bard: Bards bring unparalleled spellcasting support to the Paladin. They offer a broader range of spells, including healing, buffs, and control options that the Paladin spell list lacks. The Bard’s Inspiration feature can also significantly enhance the party’s performance. Multiclassing into Bard allows for both increased spell slots and powerful support abilities.
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Sorcerer: Like Warlock, Sorcerer benefits from the Charisma stat. Sorcerers offer potent Metamagic options, allowing you to tailor your spells for maximum impact. Combining the Paladin’s martial prowess with the Sorcerer’s spellcasting versatility makes for a formidable character.
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Cleric: A Paladin’s divine connection makes Cleric a naturally thematic choice. Clerics provide additional healing and support spells, as well as access to divine domains that can significantly enhance the Paladin’s abilities. The Life Domain cleric, for example, synergizes excellently with a Paladin’s focus on healing and protection.
Why Multiclass a Paladin?
Multiclassing a Paladin addresses some of their core weaknesses, namely their limited spell slots and lack of versatility in combat. While a straight Paladin can be a powerful force, multiclassing opens up new tactical options and allows you to specialize in areas where the Paladin class falls short.
How to Choose the Right Multiclass
The best multiclass for your Paladin depends on your desired playstyle and character concept. Consider these factors:
- Ability Scores: Ensure you meet the multiclassing requirements for your chosen class (Strength 13 and Charisma 13 for Paladin).
- Role in the Party: Do you want to be a primary damage dealer, a supporter, or a mix of both?
- Character Concept: How does the multiclass fit into your character’s backstory and personality?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Paladin Multiclassing
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about multiclassing a Paladin, providing deeper insight into optimizing your build:
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Is multiclassing Paladin always a good idea? No, multiclassing is not always beneficial. A single-classed Paladin is strong and has access to powerful high-level abilities. Multiclassing delays those abilities, so only do it if you have a clear plan and understand the trade-offs.
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When is the best level to start multiclassing a Paladin? This depends on the multiclass. For Hexblade Warlock, taking a level or two early (levels 1-3) is common to gain the Charisma-based attacks. For Bard or Sorcerer, waiting until Paladin level 6 (for Aura of Protection) can be beneficial.
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How many levels should I take in my secondary class? There’s no definitive answer. It depends on what you want to achieve. A small dip (1-3 levels) can provide specific features, while a more significant investment (6+ levels) allows you to develop the secondary class’s capabilities further. Balance is key.
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What are the best Paladin/Warlock builds? The most popular is the Hexblade Paladin. Taking 1-3 levels of Hexblade Warlock early on provides Charisma-based attacks, eliminating the need for high Strength. Pact of the Blade allows you to summon a magical weapon. The rest of your levels can be spent in Paladin to maximize your Smiting ability.
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What are the best Paladin/Bard builds? A popular build involves taking Paladin to level 2 (for Divine Smite and Fighting Style), then focusing on Bard for the rest of the levels. College of Valor or Swords are common choices, enhancing your combat abilities.
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Is a Paladin/Sorcerer multiclass viable? Yes, it’s a powerful option. The key is to have high Charisma. Sorcerer provides access to Metamagic, allowing you to Quickened Spell or Twin Spell your Paladin spells. Divine Soul is a popular Sorcerer subclass, granting access to Cleric spells.
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What are the downsides of multiclassing Paladin? The main downside is delayed access to higher-level Paladin features, such as improved Divine Smite and powerful auras. You’ll also have fewer ASIs (Ability Score Improvements) if you split your levels too much.
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Can I still wear heavy armor if I multiclass out of Paladin? Yes, if you gained proficiency in heavy armor from your Paladin levels, you can still wear it after multiclassing. However, if you only gain heavy armor proficiency from a multiclass (e.g., multiclassing into Cleric), you must start as the class that grants heavy armor proficieny.
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Does multiclassing affect my Divine Smite? No, Divine Smite uses spell slots, and multiclassing increases your total number of spell slots, even if they’re from another class. This means more Smites!
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What ability scores should I prioritize in a Paladin multiclass? Charisma is crucial for most Paladin multiclasses (especially Warlock, Sorcerer, and Bard) as it powers their spells and abilities. Strength or Dexterity (depending on your weapon choice) is also important for melee combat. Constitution is always valuable for hit points and concentration saves.
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Is Paladin/Monk a viable multiclass?
It is generally not recommended due to conflicting stat requirements (Strength, Dexterity, Wisdom, and Charisma). It would make your build extremely MAD. However, if you are going for a specific role playing concept, this could be explored.
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Does multiclassing Paladin grant heavy armor proficiency?
Not if you are multiclassing into Paladin. Heavy armor proficiency can only be gained by starting as a class that grants it.
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What is MAD?
MAD stands for “Multiple Ability Dependent.” This means that your character requires high scores in several different abilities to function effectively. Builds that are MAD are generally less powerful than those that focus on fewer abilities.
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How does this apply to GamesLearningSociety.org?
Understanding game mechanics, such as character building and multiclassing, can be approached as a learning experience. Just as players learn to optimize their characters, learners can develop strategies to master complex concepts. Resources like the Games Learning Society foster innovative approaches to education through game-based learning and collaborative exploration. GamesLearningSociety.org promotes understanding and learning, just like mastering multiclassing in D&D.
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What’s the most important thing to consider when multiclassing a Paladin?
The most important thing is to have a plan and a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. Don’t multiclass just for the sake of it. Consider the trade-offs, the ability score requirements, and how the multiclass fits into your character’s story and playstyle.
By carefully considering these factors, you can create a Paladin multiclass that is both powerful and true to your vision for your character. Good luck, and may your dice rolls be ever in your favor!