Why Are Paladins The Most Played Class In Baldur's Gate 3?

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In , paladins have consistently been the most popular class, with clerics being the least played class. This is interesting, since it sidelined more typically fantasy-aligned spellcasting classes like the wizard and even the fighter, which is usually the recommended pick for those unfamiliar to. With thousands of players choosing this option over every other class, it begs the question — what is so great about the paladin?

There are many things to consider when choosing a class in , including the type of damage players wish to deal, the role they want to play in the party, whether they want to be magic or martial based, and so much more. With all these factors considered, what has made the paladin class the most popular choice?

In both and, paladins can interact with every area of combat. They're spellcasters, but unlike the majority of magic users, have lots of health and are able to tank with their high armor classes. They can wear any type of armor, meaning players can also build them to be suited for stealth or front line battle. The iconic Divine Smite is usually the defining feature of the class when it comes to abilities, which makes them particularly heavy hitters.

Alongside excelling in both spellcasting and martial melee combat, paladins also gain access to theLay on Handsability, which is a multipurpose healing spell which can be used a few times per long rest. While also replenishing hit points, it can cure an ally of poison and other ailments. Though their general healing ability may not always be as effective as a cleric or druid, it may be the difference between winning and losing a battle. A bonus is that, although it does cost an action, Lay on Hands does not cost a spell slot.

Paladins can take one of four Oath in Baldur’s Gate 3, defining their subclass, but they are not created equally in terms of abilities and spells.

Paladins are spellcasters, healers, heavy hitters and hard to kill — it's no wonder their reputation earned them the number one