In Baldur’s Gate 3, the Paladin class offers a unique blend of martial power, healing capabilities, and divine magic. What sets the Paladin apart from other classes is its Oath system, which defines the subclass and deeply influences the character’s playstyle. Choosing the best Paladin subclass in BG3 depends on what you value most raw damage, healing support, crowd control, or roleplaying flavor. Each Oath shapes the Paladin’s abilities, spell selection, and how they interact with the game’s world and choices. Understanding the strengths and drawbacks of each option is crucial to building an effective character.
Overview of Paladin Subclasses
There are four main Paladin subclasses, known as Oaths, available in Baldur’s Gate 3:
- Oath of Devotion
- Oath of the Ancients
- Oath of Vengeance
- Oathbreaker (unlockable through gameplay)
Each subclass offers unique features and spells that cater to different playstyles. Some players prefer the holy and righteous role of the Devotion Paladin, while others gravitate toward the darker, more aggressive Oathbreaker. Determining which is the best Paladin subclass in BG3 depends on whether you play solo, in a party, or seek roleplay immersion.
Oath of Devotion
Features and Playstyle
The Oath of Devotion is the classic Paladin archetype focused on righteousness, justice, and honor. Devotion Paladins gain access to spells such as Protection from Evil and Good, Sanctuary, and Turn the Unholy, making them excellent at supporting allies while holding the frontline.
Key Benefits
- Strong defensive spells and auras
- Supportive abilities for team-based play
- Reliable smite damage and crowd control options
When to Choose
Choose Oath of Devotion if you enjoy classic hero archetypes, prefer to play support tank roles, and want a consistent lawful-good character path. This subclass fits well with morally driven playthroughs.
Oath of the Ancients
Features and Playstyle
The Oath of the Ancients emphasizes nature, light, and preserving life. These Paladins are often seen as guardians of the natural world, offering a unique mix of healing, radiant magic, and resistance-boosting spells. They gain spells like Ensnaring Strike, Misty Step, and Protection from Energy.
Key Benefits
- Excellent survivability through healing and resistances
- Great for frontline tanks in magical-heavy encounters
- Synergizes well with nature-based companions
When to Choose
Pick the Oath of the Ancients if you want a defensive playstyle with strong anti-magic tools and a focus on sustainability. It’s ideal for players who want their Paladin to be a protector of life and balance rather than a judge or executioner.
Oath of Vengeance
Features and Playstyle
The Oath of Vengeance is the most aggressive of the Paladin subclasses. These Paladins dedicate themselves to the pursuit of justice at any cost. They gain spells such as Hunter’s Mark, Misty Step, and Haste, making them powerful damage dealers who can chase down fleeing enemies and dish out punishment swiftly.
Key Benefits
- High burst damage potential
- Access to mobility-enhancing spells
- Strong single-target focus with Smite synergy
When to Choose
If you prefer playing a Paladin that focuses on dealing damage rather than healing or tanking, the Oath of Vengeance is the best choice. It’s particularly useful in solo play or for players who want to fill a DPS role in the party.
Oathbreaker
Features and Playstyle
The Oathbreaker is a unique subclass not chosen at character creation, but unlocked by breaking your Paladin’s original Oath. This usually happens by committing acts that go against your sworn ideals, such as murder or betrayal. Once the Oath is broken, you can embrace a darker path that includes necrotic abilities and control over the undead. Oathbreakers gain spells like Inflict Wounds, Hellish Rebuke, and Animate Dead.
Key Benefits
- Dark magic and necrotic damage options
- Summoning undead for support and distraction
- Powerful damage with thematic edge
When to Choose
Oathbreaker is ideal for players who want a morally ambiguous or villainous Paladin. It’s also a great choice for experienced players looking to explore an alternative playstyle with darker spells and unique interactions in the game’s narrative.
Comparing Subclasses: Which Is the Best?
The question of which is the best Paladin subclass in BG3 doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends heavily on the role you want to fulfill in your party and your preferred style of gameplay. However, there are some general considerations that can help guide your decision.
Best for Damage Output
Oath of Vengeancestands out as the best subclass for pure damage potential. Its mobility, paired with Hunter’s Mark and bonus action efficiency, allows for sustained, high single-target output. Combining these with Divine Smite results in devastating critical hits.
Best for Survivability
Oath of the Ancientsis unmatched in defensive prowess. Its aura of protection and resistances to spells make it the top choice for tanking and group survivability, especially in long battles against spellcasters.
Best for Roleplaying
Oath of Devotionis perfect for players who want to embody the classic Paladin ideals of justice and mercy. It fits seamlessly into many narratives and aligns well with lawful-good decision-making.
Best for Unique Abilities
Oathbreakerintroduces fresh gameplay by blending Paladin combat with necromancer-like control. While it may not be as balanced as other subclasses in terms of defense or party synergy, it offers a distinct flavor unmatched by the rest.
Synergy with Party Roles
When building a Paladin in a team, your subclass should complement the strengths and weaknesses of your companions. For example:
- If you have a Cleric or Druid, consider Oath of Vengeance to provide offensive strength.
- With squishy spellcasters in your party, Oath of the Ancients helps with protective buffs.
- For a balanced role supporting both damage and healing, Oath of Devotion fits perfectly.
Choosing the best Paladin subclass in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a rewarding decision that significantly shapes your gameplay. Whether you favor the high-impact vengeance of a justice-driven warrior or the mystical, light-bound magic of a nature protector, each Oath offers a distinct path. For damage seekers, Oath of Vengeance dominates. For defensive tacticians, Oath of the Ancients shines. For traditionalists, Oath of Devotion delivers classic Paladin justice. And for those who walk a darker road, the Oathbreaker offers unique and powerful alternatives. Whatever your choice, the Paladin remains one of the most versatile and rewarding classes in BG3.