Paladin Abjuration Wizard Bg3

Creating a character build inBaldur’s Gate 3that combines both martial prowess and magical defense can lead to an incredibly rewarding gameplay experience. One of the more effective hybrid builds is the Paladin and Abjuration Wizard multiclass, offering players a unique blend of frontline durability, support casting, and magical utility. This build is especially appealing for players who want to uphold righteousness on the battlefield while maintaining high survivability through clever spell use and protective wards. With the right planning, this combination can form a near-unstoppable force that excels in both solo and party-based encounters.

Why Combine Paladin and Abjuration Wizard?

Synergy of Divine and Arcane Defense

The Paladin class inBaldur’s Gate 3is known for its high durability, divine smite burst damage, and powerful auras. On the other hand, the Abjuration Wizard subclass specializes in protective spells and the creation of an Arcane Ward, a magical shield that absorbs damage. When combined, the two classes create a defensive powerhouse that can tank hits, heal allies, and contribute meaningful damage output through melee and magic alike.

This hybrid benefits from the Paladin’s heavy armor and high Charisma, which supports their saving throws and aura bonuses. Meanwhile, the Wizard side grants access to a wide range of spells, particularly abjuration spells like Shield, Counterspell, and Globe of Invulnerability. The result is a character who is extremely hard to kill and capable of protecting others effectively.

Class Breakdown and Level Split

Optimal Level Distribution

To make the most of the Paladin Abjuration Wizard build in BG3, a recommended level split is:

• Paladin – Level 6: This provides access to Aura of Protection, a core feature that boosts saving throws for the party based on your Charisma modifier.
• Wizard – Level 6: This unlocks the potent Arcane Ward feature and allows access to 3rd-level spells like Counterspell, Dispel Magic, and Protection from Energy.

This 6/6 split allows you to gain significant benefits from both classes without losing too much from either. You’ll have a solid melee presence through Divine Smite and extra attack, while also having a reliable pool of defensive spells and magical shields to keep yourself alive.

Race and Background Suggestions

When building your character, consider choosing a race that benefits both spellcasting and melee combat. Some strong choices include:

• Half-Elf: Bonus to Charisma and Darkvision make this an excellent pick for a Paladin multiclass.
• High Elf: Grants a free cantrip and boosts Intelligence, which helps your Wizard spells.
• Githyanki: Offers free armor proficiency and useful psionic spells.

For backgrounds, pick something that fits the roleplaying concept while providing useful proficiencies. Acolyte (for Insight and Religion) or Soldier (for Athletics and Intimidation) are thematic and mechanically beneficial.

Core Features and Strategies

Arcane Ward: Your Magical Shield

The defining feature of an Abjuration Wizard is the Arcane Ward. This ward automatically absorbs damage whenever you cast an abjuration spell, functioning as a second health pool. It recharges every time you cast spells like Mage Armor, Shield, or Counterspell, which makes it invaluable in prolonged fights.

Since Paladins often find themselves on the frontlines, having this magical ward soak damage can prevent early hits from chipping away at your real health pool, increasing your longevity significantly.

Aura of Protection: Teamwide Defense

At Paladin level 6, you gain the Aura of Protection, which adds your Charisma modifier to all saving throws for you and nearby allies. When combined with high saving throw proficiency from the Wizard class, your character becomes extremely resistant to crowd control, magic effects, and status conditions. This also means you’re well-suited to tanking spells and protecting squishier teammates.

Spell Selection for Abjuration Wizard

Focus your Wizard spellbook on abjuration and utility spells. Some must-have options include:

• Shield: Instant +5 AC, also triggers Arcane Ward.
• Mage Armor: If you’re not wearing armor, this helps maintain high AC and builds your Arcane Ward.
• Counterspell: Deny enemy casters while also empowering your ward.
• Mirror Image: Though not an abjuration spell, this increases your survivability with multiple attack roll chances.
• Globe of Invulnerability: Blocks low-level spells in a wide area, great for party defense.

Don’t forget to prepare rituals and utility spells like Detect Magic, Identify, and Feather Fall to further round out your magical toolkit.

Divine Smite and Melee Impact

Your Paladin side provides Divine Smite, a key source of burst damage. Since spell slots are shared between classes, you can use your Wizard slots to power your Divine Smites. This means you can be casting Shield or Counterspell one turn and delivering devastating radiant melee damage the next. This synergy ensures you never have a ‘wasted’ turn.

Equipment and Stat Priorities

Ability Scores

When assigning ability scores, focus on the following priorities:

• Charisma: Maximizes Paladin auras, saves, and some skills.
• Intelligence: Boosts Wizard spellcasting and ward strength.
• Constitution: Needed for concentration and overall durability.
• Strength or Dexterity: Depends on your weapon choice and armor type.

Since you’ll rely on both magic and melee, balance is key. Favor Charisma and Intelligence as your primaries, with Constitution as your secondary focus.

Gear Recommendations

Seek out gear that supports spellcasting and melee efficiency. Ideal gear includes:

• Weapons: A versatile longsword or a one-handed weapon with a shield for defense.
• Armor: Heavy armor like Plate Mail or enchanted variants for high AC. If you’re not proficient, consider Mage Armor.
• Accessories: Rings or amulets that boost AC, spell save DC, or resistance to magic.

Tips for Playing the Build Effectively

Balance Between Frontline and Support

As a Paladin Abjuration Wizard, you are not a pure tank or pure caster. Your strength lies in adaptability. Use spells in the early rounds to build your Arcane Ward, then engage in melee when the enemy is distracted. Use Counterspell to disrupt enemy magic, and don’t forget to support allies with defensive spells.

Utilize Reactions and Timing

Spells like Shield are cast as reactions, allowing you to stay flexible. Combine this with Divine Smite as a melee reaction for surprise damage. Always be mindful of when to hold your spell slots for defensive purposes versus using them for offense.

The Paladin Abjuration Wizard build inBaldur’s Gate 3offers a unique experience for players who enjoy protecting their party while still holding their ground in close combat. It’s a blend of durability, magic, and burst potential that feels rewarding both mechanically and thematically. With the ability to create magical wards, tank spells, and strike with divine energy, this build excels in a variety of combat scenarios and thrives in both solo and cooperative play.

If you’re seeking a character that stands tall in the face of danger, shields the weak, and adapts to any challenge with magical flair, the Paladin Abjuration Wizard hybrid may be your perfect choice in BG3.