What is the best weapon for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3?

The best weapon for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 depends on your playstyle, the specific build you are aiming for, and the situation you are in. Paladins are versatile melee combatants who excel in dealing high burst damage, especially with their Divine Smite ability, which allows them to expend spell slots to deal additional radiant damage on a successful weapon attack. Therefore, the ideal weapon for a Paladin should complement their ability to deal consistent and high damage while also providing utility in combat.

One of the best weapons for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 is the "Sword of Justice," a greatsword that you can obtain early in the game. This weapon not only deals significant damage but also has a unique ability called "Tyr's Protection," which allows you to cast the Shield of Faith spell once per short rest. This spell grants a +2 bonus to AC, making it a valuable tool for survivability in tough fights. To obtain the Sword of Justice, you need to complete the quest "Hunt the Devil" in Act 1. This quest involves interacting with Anders, a Paladin of Tyr, and making choices that align with your character's moral compass. The quest can be resolved peacefully or through combat, but either way, you will be rewarded with this powerful weapon.

Another excellent weapon for a Paladin is the "Everburn Blade," a greatsword that deals additional fire damage on every hit. This weapon is particularly effective against enemies vulnerable to fire damage and can be obtained very early in the game by defeating Commander Zhalk on the Nautiloid ship during the prologue. While this fight is challenging, especially at low levels, it is worth the effort as the Everburn Blade remains a strong weapon throughout Act 1 and beyond.

For Paladins who prefer a more defensive playstyle, the "Adamantine Longsword" is a great choice. This weapon can be crafted in the Adamantine Forge during Act 1, and it has the unique ability to reduce the target's movement speed and prevent them from taking reactions. Additionally, the Adamantine Longsword is resistant to critical hits, making it a durable option for Paladins who want to stay in the thick of combat. To craft this weapon, you will need to find Mithral Ore and a Longsword Mold, both of which can be found in the Grymforge area.

When choosing a weapon for your Paladin, it is important to consider the synergy between the weapon's abilities and your character's build. For example, if you are focusing on a two-handed weapon build, the Sword of Justice or Everburn Blade are excellent choices. However, if you prefer a sword-and-shield build for added defense, the Adamantine Longsword or a similar one-handed weapon would be more appropriate. Additionally, you should consider the type of enemies you will be facing. For example, if you are fighting enemies with high AC, a weapon with a high attack bonus or additional damage types can help you overcome their defenses.

One common mistake to avoid is neglecting your weapon's enchantments and special abilities. Many weapons in Baldur's Gate 3 have unique effects that can significantly enhance your combat effectiveness. For example, the Sword of Justice's Shield of Faith ability can be a lifesaver in tough battles, while the Everburn Blade's fire damage can quickly whittle down enemy health. Make sure to read the weapon's description and understand how its abilities can be used to your advantage.

Advanced techniques for optimizing your Paladin's weapon choice include combining your weapon's abilities with your class features and spells. For example, using the Sword of Justice's Shield of Faith ability in conjunction with your Paladin's Aura of Protection can make you nearly untouchable in combat. Similarly, using the Everburn Blade's fire damage in combination with your Divine Smite can result in devastating damage output. Additionally, consider using spells like Bless or Shield of Faith to further enhance your combat effectiveness.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, Paladins are proficient with all simple and martial weapons, so you have a wide range of options to choose from. However, the best weapons for a Paladin are typically those that deal high damage and have additional effects that complement their abilities. Greatswords, longswords, and warhammers are all excellent choices, depending on your preferred playstyle.

In conclusion, the best weapon for a Paladin in Baldur's Gate 3 depends on your build, playstyle, and the specific situation you are in. The Sword of Justice, Everburn Blade, and Adamantine Longsword are all excellent choices that offer unique benefits and synergize well with the Paladin's abilities. By carefully considering your weapon's abilities and how they complement your class features, you can maximize your Paladin's effectiveness in combat and overcome even the toughest challenges.