How Spellcasting Works in Baldur's Gate 3

Understand spellcasting in baldurs gate 3: learn about spell slots, ability scores, cantrips, and spells known for classes like Wizard, Cleric, and Sorcerer.

Most classes in baldurs gate 3 have some form of spellcasting ability. These include the Bard, Cleric, Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard, Paladin, and Ranger. While the specifics vary by class, all spellcasters share common aspects: how many spells they know, how many they can prepare, their spell slots per spell level, and the Ability Score used for spellcasting efficacy.

Class Spellcasting Summary:

• Bard: Limited spells known, all known spells prepared, Charisma based.
• Cleric: All Cleric spells known, limited spells prepared, Wisdom based.
• Druid: All Druid spells known, limited spells prepared, Wisdom based.
• Paladin: All Paladin spells known, limited spells prepared, Charisma based.
• Ranger: Limited spells known, limited spells prepared, Wisdom based.
• Sorcerer: Limited spells known, all known spells prepared, Charisma based.
• Warlock: Limited spells known, all known spells prepared, Charisma based.
• Wizard: Limited spells known (plus Scrolls), limited spells prepared, Intelligence based.

Paladins and Rangers gain spellcasting at 2nd-level and are considered secondary spellcasters due to limited spell selection and advancement.

Spellcasting Ability Score:

Your class determines which Ability Score affects your spellcasting competence: Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma. This score's modifier impacts the Saving Throw DC for spells, spell Attack Rolls, and, for classes that prepare spells (Cleric, Druid, Paladin, Wizard), the number of spells you can prepare. Investing in your class's spellcasting Ability Score is crucial for effective casting.

Spell Levels:

Spells are organized into levels, generally indicating potency. As you level up, you gain access to higher-level spells and more spell slots. Most classes have a variable number of spell slots per spell level, with fewer slots for higher-level spells.

Example: Wizard Spell Slots

• 1st-level Wizard: 2x 1st-level slots
• 2nd-level Wizard: 3x 1st-level slots
• 3rd-level Wizard: 4x 1st-level slots, 2x 2nd-level slots
• 4th-level Wizard: 4x 1st-level slots, 3x 2nd-level slots
• 5th-level Wizard: 4x 1st-level slots, 3x 2nd-level slots, 2x 3rd-level slots

Cantrips are weak spells that can be cast an unlimited number of times without resting.

Cantrips:

Most spellcasting classes gain access to Cantrips. Unlike other spells, Cantrips can be cast infinitely without resting. Their effects are limited, offering minor buffs, small damage, or minor utility effects like the _Light_ spell. Some races also grant a Cantrip regardless of class.

Spells Known:

Many classes know a limited selection of spells, gaining more as they level up. Clerics, Druids, and Paladins automatically know all spells available to them at their level. Bards, Rangers, Sorcerers, Warlocks, and Wizards must choose their known spells. You can only prepare spells you know. When leveling up, you can select new spells up to the highest spell level you have access to.

Example: Sorcerer Spells Known

• 1st-level Sorcerer: 2 spells known
• 2nd-level Sorcerer: 3 spells known
• 3rd-level Sorcerer: 4 spells known
• 4th-level Sorcerer: 5 spells known
• 5th-level Sorcerer: 6 spells known