In Dungeons & Dragons, the Paladin is a stalwart defender of justice and wielder of divine might. However, multiclassing opens doors to a wealth of new possibilities for those seeking to expand their horizons beyond the traditional confines of pure Paladinhood. Among the myriad options available, three classes stand out as promising companions to the Paladin.

Multiclassing with Warlock
One of the most popular and effective multiclass options for Paladins is the Warlock. The synergy between the two classes lies in the Warlock’s ability to recharge spell slots on a short rest, providing a reliable fuel source for the Paladin’s Divine Smite ability.
When delving into the Warlock’s domain, it’s essential to consider the depth of the multiclass. While dipping a few levels into Warlock can significantly enhance a Paladin’s combat capabilities, it’s generally recommended not to go beyond the 3rd level. This threshold grants access to the Pact Boon feature, with Pact of the Blade a particularly enticing choice for Paladins. This Pact allows Paladins to retrain an Eldritch Invocation gained at 2nd level, potentially acquiring Improved Pact Weapon. This invocation substantially boosts both attack and damage rolls, solidifying the Paladin’s role as a formidable combatant.

Multiclassing with Fighter
A dip into the Fighter class presents a compelling option for Paladins seeking to enhance their martial prowess. Fighters boast a diverse array of Fighting Styles, offering additional flexibility in combat. The decision to multiclass into Fighter, however, requires careful consideration. While the benefits of gaining access to a second Fighting Style may seem enticing, players must weigh the cost of investing a level in Fighter against the Paladin’s existing proficiencies.
One notable advantage of multiclassing into Fighter is gaining proficiency in Constitution saving throws. Starting with a level of Fighter grants this proficiency, enhancing the Paladin’s resilience on the battlefield. Additionally, Fighters excel in combat maneuvers and tactics, offering Paladins access to abilities such as Action Surge and Second Wind, further enhancing their effectiveness in battle.

Multiclassing with Sorcerer
Multiclassing as a Paladin and Sorcerer offers a path to arcane prowess, granting Paladins additional spell slots to fuel their smites. With Sorcerer spell access advancing twice as fast as a Paladin, spellcasting capabilities accelerate, providing ample opportunities for magical exploration.
The choice of Sorcerous Origin can significantly influence synergy. Draconic origins enhance defenses, appealing to dexterity-based Paladins seeking increased survivability on the battlefield. However, those who embrace the chaotic energies of Wild Magic may enjoy features like Tides of Chaos, which grants spellcasting advantages and triggers unpredictable magical surges. While inherently risky, Wild Magic can add an element of excitement and unpredictability to the Paladin’s repertoire, reflecting the diverse nature of their adventures. For those seeking offensive spellcasting, options like Booming Blade and Sword Burst can enhance combat versatility. Despite Divine Soul Sorcerers lacking access to cleric cantrips, they still wield potent spells that complement the Paladin’s divine magic.
The path of the Paladin offers steadfast devotion and the opportunity for diverse exploration through multiclassing. Whether delving into the eldritch pacts of the Warlock, honing martial skills alongside the Fighters, or tapping into the arcane mysteries of the Sorcerer, Paladins can forge potent combinations that reflect their unique journeys. As adventurers tread these multifaceted paths, they can discover new depths of power and versatility, enriching their tales with each step taken. With careful consideration and strategic planning, multiclassing offers Paladins the chance to transcend the limitations of their singular class and become legendary heroes in the annals of D&D lore.