The launch of Patch 8 forBaldur’s Gate 3includes the addition of 12 new subclasses for even more unique character builds. This also gives the player even more possibilities when it comes to multiclassing.
Players will often use guidelines like common ability scores when deciding on different combinations. This means that the Ranger-Cleric multiclass is already a common choice, because these classes share Wisdom as one of their most important ability scores. The addition of the Swarmkeeper Ranger subclass and its extra abilities fit in nicely with the Tempest Domain Cleric, making this ideal for a melee character that also does a high level of spell damage.
Wisdom is the driving stat behind Insight and Perception, and both classesuse Wisdom as their casting modifieras well. When the player adds the additional weapon and armor abilities, this has the potential to be a wicked DPS build.
The Swarmkeeper Ranger Tempest Cleric Multiclass
Building On The Common Ability Score of Wisdom
The Ranger-Cleric combination is a popular one already, and the addition of the Swarmkeeper subclassadds yet another possibilitywith the choice of Swarms. There are three types of Swarms available to the Swarmkeeper Ranger, and this build specifically uses theCloud of Jellyfish,a Swarm that deals Lightning damage.
This naturally combines with the Tempest Cleric, a subclass that also has a variety of Lightning-based abilities that include reactions, cantrips, and other spells related to the Cleric’s Domain. The result is a mobile DPS class with a high AC and impressive casting power.
Swarmkeeper Ranger
Levels 1 To 4
Four levels in Ranger willgive this multiclass characterthe basic skills related to the Ranger class and Swarmkeeper subclass, an extra Feat at level 4, and other handy abilities. Players will get one Feat and gain a Fighting Style before multiclassing to Cleric.
Swarmkeeper Spells
Archtypes
Rangers choose aFavored Enemyat level 1. The best choices for this build include extra spells to further increase casting power.
Rangers can also choose aNatural ExplorerArchetype at level 1, which gives them an extra resistance or utility. One of theWasteland Wandereroptions is ideal for this build, which offers the Ranger a choice between resistance to Poison, Cold, or Fire damage.
Fighting Style
The Ranger gets to choose one of four Fighting Styles at level 2. Almost anything works here, depending on where the player wants to take their Cleric.Defense,which improves the Ranger’s AC, is a good default choice for a Fighting Style.
The Tempest Cleric gives this character proficiency in heavy armor, which means it already has a decent armor class and will be able to fight at melee range. Other Fighting Styles are connected to specific weapons, so it’s ultimately the player’s choice.
Swarm Choice: The Cloud Of Jellyfish
In keeping with the theme of the build, which is based on Lightning damage, this Ranger should choose theCloud of Jellyfishas their bonded Swarm. This cloud always surrounds the caster and gives them extra damage, defense, and mobility options. All of these skills function as Reactions, so no preparation or saving throws are required.
Level 4 Feat: Elemental Adept, Lightning
The player can go as far as level 3 with the Ranger just to get the Swarmkeeper subclass, but it’s recommended that they progress four levels to choose a Feat.Elemental Adept: Lightningwill give this build the power toignore any resistance their target has to Lightning damage.
Tempest Cleric
Levels 1 To 8
Only Sorcerers, Warlocks, Paladins, and Clerics choose a subclass at level 1, making it another nice quirk of using the class with a multiclass build. It’s also one of the reasons it’s better to take a few levels in Ranger first before moving on to the Cleric progression. When multiclassing into a Cleric, choose theTempest Domain.
Feats
The eight levels of Cleric include two additional Feats. Players can use them to improve melee combat and spell damage, but most of the best options include a buff to Wisdom.
Power of the Tempest
In addition to the basic healing and support spells that every Cleric knows, this subclasshas several unique spells and abilities. The Tempest Cleric Domain is connected to any powers connected with the storm, so that means Lightning, in addition to Force and Cold damage.
Wrath of the Storm
1
A Reaction that allows the Cleric to strike a target with either 2d8 Thunder or Lightning damage.
Thunder Wave
Release a wave of force that pushes back creatures and objects.
Destructive Wrath
2
Use the Channel Divinity ability to swap out Thunder or Lightning attacks for maximum damage.
Gust of Wind
3
Can push creatures and objects back and clear pesky AoE effects like acid or gas.
Shatter
A sonic explosion that does extra damage to constructs, machines, and other types of inorganic material.
Call Lightning
5
The Cleric can use this spell to hit every target in range and then call on the same ability for multiple turns.
Sleet Storm
The Cleric can summon a cloud of frozen rain that puts out fires, freezes dangerous terrain, and interrupts spellcasting.
6
Freedom of Movement
7
Cast it on allies or on the Cleric themselves, to release them from any movement-impairing effects and difficult terrain.
Ice Storm
A powerful AoE effect that deals Bludgeoning and Cold damage, along with creating an ice surface that knocks targets Prone.
8
Best Gear And Weapons
Focus On Wisdom and Constitution
Another major advantage of this multiclass is the high AC and array of weapon proficiencies. When it comes to customization, this is where the Swarmkeeper Ranger and Tempest Cleric combo really shines. Both already have proficiency in martial weapons, and the Cleric subclass adds Heavy Armor to the mix, so this character could even be a defender, depending on their gear. Some of the best gear options include:
