The Ultimate Guide to Dominating Baldur's Gate 3 as a Virtuous Paladin

Highlights

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Paladin class offers an opportunity for players to engage in more flexible roleplaying, where they can explore the challenges of upholding their Oath and face the repercussions of betraying it.

The Paladin's roleplaying experience in Baldur's Gate 3 is enriched by the choice of race and companions, as interactions and relationships with different characters can shape the character's journey.

In the realm of role-playing games, it is well-known that many players gravitate towards the virtuous options and desirable endings. The allure of committing immoral acts often fails to resonate with the majority of players. However, this does not mean that the temptation to explore darker paths does not exist. Moments arise when even the most honorable Shepard in Mass Effect cannot resist delivering a well-deserved punch. Such temptations are an integral part of the gaming experience, and Baldur's Gate 3 tantalizes players with power right from the beginning. Not only do players have the opportunity to align themselves with the Absolute and embrace the Illithid Tadpole within them, but the character creation process also introduces the Dark Urge origin character, incorporating temptation into certain classes.

Baldur's Gate 3: Paladin Roleplaying is More Open-Ended Than You Think

One of the classes featured in Dungeons and Dragons is the Paladin, an embodiment of devotion to a higher power. With their unwavering faith, these righteous warriors often pose a formidable challenge to cunning rogues within a party. However, their presence also adds a captivating layer of roleplaying. Paladins can represent individuals striving to uphold moral integrity, occasionally relying heavily on a strict interpretation of laws. Yet, even Paladins are susceptible to straying from the righteous path, a dynamic intricately woven into the mechanics of Dungeons and Dragons 5E, as well as Baldur's Gate 3.

Often misunderstood, Paladins are not solely known for their fervent worship, righteous anger, and unwavering devotion. In Baldur's Gate 3, players have the opportunity to portray a Paladin who grapples with the consequences of their Oath and the moral implications that follow. While their Oath grants them numerous advantages, breaking it does not equate to failure. There is a chance for redemption, allowing players to either restore their Oaths or embrace a new path, embracing the unknown depths of darkness.

Introducing an Oath, or breaking it, brings a unique roleplaying aspect to the Paladin class, which is further influenced by the choice of race. In Baldur's Gate 3, the main character's roleplay is heavily impacted by various factors, resulting in distinct options for Dragonborn Paladins and Human Paladins. Additionally, if players choose to add The Dark Urge to the mix, it further adds to the temptations faced by the Paladin class. It could even be argued that the allure of evil or power is more impactful for Paladins, given the consequences of becoming an Oathbreaker.

Furthermore, the companions in Baldur's Gate 3 encompass a wide range of individuals with different moral standings, making the formation of relationships with them another dimension to consider for the main character. Influencing someone to make the right choices isn't always easy, especially when companions can lead them astray.

Baldur's Gate 3: Paladin's Gameplay Abilities and Subclasses Can Do It All

In Baldur's Gate 3, oaths serve as more than just roleplaying elements. They provide additional gameplay options for Paladins through different subclasses.

One such subclass is the Oath of Devotion, which is comprised of honorable knights dedicated to safeguarding the vulnerable. This oath grants bonus spells, including abilities like Holy Rebuke, which are designed to shield and defend allies.

When players betray those they are supposed to defend, they violate the Oath.

The Oath of the Ancients is followed by individuals who are devoted to preserving nature and all forms of life. These followers of the Light possess special abilities such as Healing Radiance and Moonbeam, which symbolize their deep connection with the natural world.

Destroying the natural world or engaging in actions that prioritize death over life would violate this Oath.

Oath of Vengeance: This oath centers around the pursuit of justice, even if it means sacrificing one's own morality. Players with this oath have combat-focused abilities, placing significant emphasis on vanquishing their enemies, regardless of the consequences.

When a player skirts justice, it is highly probable that this Oath will be broken.

Oathbreaker: In the event of players breaking their oath, they will encounter an Oathbreaker in the camp who can either restore it for a fee of GP or allow them to pursue this particular subclass. Previous abilities will be transformed to align with those of an Oathbreaker.

They can control undead, make enemies fearful of them, and channel darkness.

*Largely based on Dungeons and Dragons 5E as this subclass was not available in Baldur's Gate 3's Early Access

The way players choose to embody or interact with their Oath has a direct impact on gameplay in Baldur's Gate 3. This connection between abilities and actions is significant and creates a mutually beneficial relationship. Despite this, a rogue can possess a compassionate nature or be wickedly devious, yet still maintain unique roleplaying qualities while sharing similarities in gameplay. However, this is just one aspect of the Paladin class in Baldur's Gate 3. Alongside influencing their abilities, the Paladin's starting features remain consistent and potent. They possess a robust hit-die for health, excel in melee combat, possess healing and combat magic abilities, and are proficient with shields and heavy armor.

1D10 for Hit Die

Focus on Strength for Melee damage.

Wisdom and Charisma Saving Throw Proficiencies.

Light, Medium, Heavy Armor Proficiencies. Shield Proficiency.

Simple and Martial Weapon Proficiencies

Channel Oath Charges.

Players have the freedom to choose from a multitude of options, allowing them to tailor their playstyles while ensuring they have a wide range of combat abilities at their disposal. Simultaneously, they must carefully consider their roleplaying choices, determining how they want their story to progress. As a result, those who desire to constantly resist or fully embrace temptation, while also being well-equipped for various scenarios, will find the Paladin, Oathbreaker or otherwise, to be an ideal choice.

The highly anticipated release of Baldur's Gate 3 is scheduled for August 3 on PC and September 6 on PS5.