Baldur’s Gate 3 Paladin Class – a Class for Fighters With Divine Power – In the diverse world of Baldur’s Gate 3, the Paladin class stands as a beacon of strength and righteousness. Combining martial prowess with divine power, Paladins are formidable fighters who draw strength from their sacred oaths. This article explores the unique aspects of the Paladin class, highlighting why they are ideal for players who seek a blend of combat skills and divine abilities. We will delve into their abilities, strengths, and strategies to maximize their potential in the game.
The Core of a Paladin
Divine Sense
From the start, Paladins have the ability to sense the presence of evil. Divine Sense allows them to detect celestial, fiend, and undead creatures within a certain radius. This ability is invaluable for uncovering hidden threats and ensuring the party’s safety. It emphasizes the Paladin’s role as a guardian against evil.
Lay on Hands
The Lay on Hands feature epitomizes the Paladin’s role as a healer and protector. Paladins can heal a certain amount of hit points equal to their Paladin level multiplied by five. This pool of healing can be used to cure diseases and neutralize poisons, making Paladins essential for sustaining the party in prolonged encounters.
Martial Prowess
Paladins are proficient in all weapons and armor, including shields. This proficiency allows them to be versatile combatants, capable of wielding various weapons and adopting different combat styles. Whether engaging in close-quarters combat with a sword and shield or dealing massive damage with a two-handed weapon, Paladins excel in melee combat.(Read Too: Baldur’s Gate 3 Druid Classes – Class Suitable for Defense & Attack)
Sacred Oaths
At the core of a Paladin’s power are the sacred oaths they swear. These oaths define their path and grant unique abilities and spells. The two primary oaths available in Baldur’s Gate 3 are the Oath of Devotion and the Oath of the Ancients.
Oath of Devotion
Paladins who swear the Oath of Devotion are committed to the ideals of justice, virtue, and order. They gain abilities that enhance their combat prowess and protect their allies. Key features include:
- Sacred Weapon: Paladins can imbue a weapon with positive energy, adding their Charisma modifier to attack rolls for a minute.
- Turn the Unholy: This ability allows Paladins to turn away fiends and undead, forcing them to flee.
- Aura of Devotion: At higher levels, Paladins can protect themselves and nearby allies from being charmed.
Oath of the Ancients
The Oath of the Ancients is for Paladins who seek to protect the natural world and uphold the principles of light and life. This oath grants abilities that emphasize healing, protection, and resilience. Key features include:
- Nature’s Wrath: Paladins can ensnare foes with spectral vines, hindering their movement.
- Turn the Faithless: This ability forces fey and fiends to flee.
- Aura of Warding: At higher levels, Paladins and their allies gain resistance to spell damage.
Divine Smite and Spellcasting
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Divine Smite
One of the defining features of the Paladin class is Divine Smite. This ability allows Paladins to expend a spell slot to deal extra radiant damage on a melee attack. The higher the spell slot, the more damage is dealt. Divine Smite is a versatile tool, enabling Paladins to deal significant burst damage against powerful foes, especially those vulnerable to radiant damage.
Spellcasting
Paladins have access to a variety of spells that enhance their combat abilities and provide support to their allies. Their spells are drawn from the Paladin spell list and are primarily focused on healing, protection, and smiting enemies. Some key spells include:
- Bless: Increases the attack rolls and saving throws of the Paladin and their allies.
- Shield of Faith: Provides a +2 bonus to AC for a limited time.
- Cure Wounds: Allows the Paladin to heal themselves or an ally.
- Wrathful Smite: Deals additional psychic damage and potentially frightens the target.
(Read Too: Baldur’s Gate 3 Monk Class – Suitable for Fighters Without Armor)
Combat Strategies
Offensive Tactics
Paladins are at their best when leading the charge in battle. Their high AC and ability to deal substantial damage make them effective front-line fighters. Using Divine Smite judiciously allows Paladins to eliminate high-priority targets quickly. Combining melee attacks with spells like Wrathful Smite or branding smite can create devastating combos.
Defensive Tactics
Paladins can also adopt a more defensive role, protecting their allies and absorbing damage. Abilities like Lay on Hands and spells such as Shield of Faith and Protection from Evil and Good bolster their defensive capabilities. Positioning is crucial; standing between allies and enemies ensures that the Paladin can intercept attacks and provide support where needed.
Supportive Role
While Paladins are formidable in combat, they also excel in supporting roles. Their healing abilities can keep the party sustained during tough battles. Spells like Bless and Aura of Protection enhance the entire party’s effectiveness. A well-played Paladin balances offense, defense, and support to adapt to the needs of the encounter.
Optimizing Your Paladin
Attribute Allocation
When creating a Paladin, prioritizing Strength and Charisma is essential. Strength enhances melee attack and damage rolls, while Charisma boosts spellcasting and several class features. Constitution is also important for increasing hit points and overall survivability. Balancing these attributes ensures that Paladins can effectively fulfill their multifaceted role.
Equipment Choices
Paladins benefit from equipping heavy armor and shields to maximize their AC. Choosing weapons that complement their combat style, such as longswords, greatswords, or warhammers, is crucial. Magic items that enhance Strength, Charisma, or provide additional spell slots can significantly boost their performance.
Party Synergy
Paladins thrive in parties where they can leverage their versatility. They pair well with spellcasters who can provide ranged support and additional crowd control. Tanks and other front-line fighters benefit from the Paladin’s healing and protective abilities. Communication and coordination with the party ensure that the Paladin’s strengths are fully utilized.
Conclusion
In Baldur’s Gate 3, the Paladin class offers a compelling blend of martial prowess and divine power, making them ideal for players who want to embody a righteous warrior. Their ability to heal, protect, and deal significant damage allows them to adapt to various roles in the party. Whether upholding justice with the Oath of Devotion or protecting the natural world with the Oath of the Ancients, Paladins are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield – Baldur’s Gate 3 Paladin Class – a Class for Fighters With Divine Power