Paladin 5E Class Guide DnD [Abilities, Roles, & Strategies]

There’s something really magnificent about the Paladin 5E that keeps your heart racing every time you sit down for another round of your favorite Dungeons and Dragons game.

From wielding divine powers to being a frontline warrior, this class gives you the perfect cocktail mix of strength and spirituality in your gameplay.

Now, if you’re looking to maximize their potential, you’re in exactly the right place. Unleashing the full array of their abilities doesn’t mean transforming into a fantasy guru overnight!

No, it’s all about getting intimate with their capabilities and learning how to work them into your strategies efficiently. So whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, we’re here to make sure you rock every single game with your Paladin 5E.

Levels of Paladin 5E Class

Welcome, future Barbarian! Ready to take on the Dungeons & Dragons world with your might and raw power? This guide intends to help you understand every nook and cranny of this exciting D&D class.

As a first-level Barbarian, you harness a proficiency bonus of +2, unlocking the ‘Divine Sense’ and ‘Lay on Hands’ features. No magic yet, but that’s soon to change.

At the second level, your proficiency bonus remains at +2, but add a few fun features like ‘Fighting Style,’ ‘Spellcasting,’ and ‘Divine Smite.’ You even get two slots for first-level spells. Bring on the fireworks!

When you hit level 3, not only does your feature list grow even more with the addition of ‘Divine Health,’ ‘Sacred Oath,’ and an optional feature, ‘Harness Divine Power,’ but you can also strut around casting three first-level spells.

Your journey through level 4 brings another set of perks without changing your +2 proficiency bonus. Along with an ability score improvement, there’s also the feature called ‘Martial Versatility.’ Don’t worry; those three first-level spells are still there for you!

Hitting the golden patch at level 5 must feel fantastic. An upgrade on several fronts awaits – spell slots (‘4’ for first-level spells and now introduce yourself to two-second level spell slots), features (‘Extra Attack’) – everything seems sweetly magnified except good old Proficiency Bonus (+3 now).

The growth story continues similarly in levels stretching from 6-8, varying subtly around primary features as spell slot arrangements broaden.

At Level 9, you jump into new terrain with a solid +4 Proficiency Bonus while playing around with second-level spells (two slots). The journey ahead then switches between adding spell levels (up to fifth), increasing spell slots, and improvising your ability score at your own pace and strategy.

Levels from 10 to 12 bring a treasure trove of features, including ‘Aura of Courage’ at the 10th level, ‘Improved Divine Smite’ by the 11th level, improved ability scores, and ‘Cleansing Touch’ at the 14th level. And trust me when I say you are yet not done gaining splendid spells!

Don’t forget to keep an eye on that Proficiency Bonus as it hits +5 in your latest exploits within the magnetic world of Dungeons & Dragons! You also enjoy an increased number of second-level spell slots up until the terrifying twists and turns faced at Level 15.

Your rising power continues to surge through levels 16-18 with more features like ‘Sacred Oath,’ increased ability scores, optional Martial Versatility abilities, and fascinating aura improvements.

Reaching the heroes of Barbarian levels (19-20), you’ll find yourself armed with a mighty +6 Proficiency Bonus alongside even more advanced skills than ever before. You also gain access to third-level spells – that’s enough power to scare off any nemesis coming your way! Welcome to boss mode!

Once you’ve got yourself sorted with these spell slots and feature additions, remember this: Embody your Barbarian spirit – bold, brave, wild, and free. Harness that power; the strength is yours for the taking.

What are the hit points of Paladin 5E?

When you’re exploring the vast world of Dungeons & Dragons as a Paladin 5E, understanding your hit points is crucial. After all, this is your character’s ultimate life force.

In the simplest terms, hit points are your health meter in the game – once you run out of these, your character is taken out of action. This is why knowing how to gauge and manage them truly becomes an important part of your gameplay as a Paladin.

Hit Dice

In D&D 5E, Paladins use a d10 for their Hit Dice. But what does this mean? Well, the ‘d10’ represents a ten-sided die commonly used in RPGs.

Now add the total number of these you gain from each level (referred to as ‘Hit Dice’ in this context), and voila! You’ve got a health bar for yourself.

After all, determining your hit points isn’t just about knowing how much damage you can take before falling unconscious – it also decides how well your character can restore health when resting.

Hit Points at 1st Level

Starting strong is vital in D&D 5E. As a first-level Paladin, you begin with hit points equal to ’10 + your Constitution modifier.

This formula adds a layer to character creation where every modifier counts, particularly the constitution modifier, which directly affects your character’s starting health.

If you have a Constitution modifier of ‘+3’, then at the first level, you will start with 13 hit points (10 bases + 3 from Constitution).

Hit Points at Higher Levels

As they say, power accompanies responsibility (or vice versa; it depends on how much fun you’re having!). So, while leveling up fills us with excitement about amplified attack options and detailed dungeon exploration, it’s vital not to lose sight of survival basics like checking your Hit Points at higher levels.

Here’s some good news – gaining levels in Paladin broadens your ability to collect hit points. For each level that you advance beyond 1, the increase in your hit points is calculated by rolling a d10 (or taking a steady ‘6’ if dice rolling isn’t really your thing) and then adding your Constitution modifier.

If your character ascends to level 2 and you choose the stable ‘6’ accompanied by +3 Constitution modifier, they’d gain an additional 9 (6+3) hit points. Rinse & repeat this process for every following level, and ta-da! You’re on top of your health game.

Remember that playing D&D is not just about surviving; it’s also about thriving amidst the adventures. Maximizing benefits from things like hit points can help create a playing strategy that builds both robust characters and exciting gameplay narratives.

So understand these well, stack those HPs up high, and get ready for epic Paladin adventures.

Also Read: Backgrounds In The Wild Beyond The Witchlight [DnD 5E]

Features and Proficiencies of Paladin 5E Class

The Paladin Gameplay

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, Paladins stand as ideals of justice, holy warriors bound by oaths to serve a higher power and to root out evil.

Their unique blend of martial prowess and divine magic offers them a versatile role in any adventuring party. The following sections will delve deeper into the various aspects of Paladin gameplay.

Burst Damage

Paladins are renowned for their ability to deliver devastating bursts of damage, especially when smiting foes. Utilizing their Divine Smite feature, they can channel radiant energy into their strikes, dealing additional damage to their targets.

This is particularly effective against undead and fiends. When combined with spellcasting and weapon attacks, a Paladin can unleash a series of powerful blows in quick succession.

This makes them formidable opponents in combat, capable of taking down even the most daunting of adversaries with a concentrated onslaught.

Support

Beyond their martial abilities, Paladins are gifted with a selection of divine spells that allow them to offer vital support to their allies.

Their Lay on Hands feature is a potent healing tool, granting them a pool of hit points they can use to heal others or themselves. Their Auras, like the Aura of Protection, bolster nearby allies with resistance to harmful effects and enhanced saving throws.

These supportive capabilities ensure that Paladins are not just frontline fighters but also crucial members of a team, providing healing and buffs when needed most.

Tank

A Paladin’s armored presence on the battlefield is hard to ignore. Clad in heavy armor and often wielding a shield, they boast impressive defenses that make them excellent tanks.

Their high hit points, combined with abilities like Divine Shield, enable them to absorb vast amounts of damage, drawing enemies’ attention and keeping more vulnerable party members safe.

Paladins can also utilize spells like “Shield of Faith” to further enhance their durability. Serving as a bulwark against the forces of darkness, Paladins ensure that the line of defense remains unbroken.

Face

The Paladin’s strong sense of righteousness, combined with their charisma-based abilities, positions them as the ‘face’ of many adventuring parties.

Their often high Charisma scores, paired with their unwavering dedication to their oaths, make them persuasive and trustworthy figures.

Whether negotiating with the local nobility, inspiring a group of oppressed villagers, or intimidating foes into surrendering without a fight, a Paladin’s presence and words can sway the tide of many non-combat encounters, proving that their power extends beyond the battlefield.

The Spellcasting of Paladin

Paladins, as divine champions, harness the power of the gods they serve, channeling divine energies through their prayers and actions.

This divine connection grants them spellcasting abilities, making them formidable both in martial combat and magical prowess. Here’s a closer look at the nuances of a Paladin’s spellcasting.

Preparing and Casting Spells

Paladins prepare their spells after a long rest, drawing from their unique list of divine magics. Starting with access to 1st-level spells, they gradually unlock more powerful spells as they advance in levels.

By 5th level, not only do they have access to 2nd-level spells, but they also possess 2nd-level spell slots, allowing for enhanced casting of lower-level spells.

Their progression continues, reaching the pinnacle at the 17th level when they can cast potent 5th-level spells. This system ensures Paladins remain versatile, allowing them to adapt their spell repertoire based on the challenges they anticipate facing.

Spellcasting Ability

For Paladins, their sheer force of personality—represented by their Charisma score—plays a pivotal role in their spell casting. When they cast a spell, the attack roll is determined by adding their proficiency bonus to a d20 roll, along with their Charisma modifier.

This makes their spells more likely to hit their mark. The spell save DC, which determines how difficult it is for targets to resist their spells, is calculated as 8 plus their proficiency bonus and Charisma modifier. This ensures that the divine power channeled by Paladins is hard for enemies to shrug off.

Also Read: Fire Bolt 5E 2024 [Uses, Rules, Tips & Complete Spell Guide]

Spellcasting Focus

A Paladin’s connection to the divine is often symbolized and channeled through a holy symbol, which they use as their spellcasting focus.

This symbol can be an amulet, emblem, or even a shrine, representing the deity or higher power the Paladin serves. By channeling their spells through this focus, Paladins reinforce their bond with the divine, allowing them to cast spells without needing to manage a plethora of material components.

This sacred connection not only streamlines the casting process but also serves as a constant reminder of their oaths and duties as divine warriors.

What is the Fighting Styles of Paladin?

At 2nd level, Paladins can adopt a particular style of fighting as their specialty, refining their skills in a specific mode of combat. This choice represents their preferred method of engaging enemies, be it with a great weapon, a shield, or even the divine cantrips of clerics.

As they progress in their journey, Paladins also receive Ability Score Improvements at levels 4, 8, 12, 16, and 19, allowing them to enhance their core attributes.

• Unlocked at 2nd level
• Ability Score Improvement at 4, 8, 12, 16, 19

Blessed Warrior (TCoE)

The Blessed Warrior fighting style opens up new avenues of magic for Paladins by granting them access to cleric cantrips. This style reflects a deeper dive into divine magic, blending the lines between holy warrior and priest.

• Learn two Cleric cantrips.
• You can swap out cantrips every time you level up.

Also Read: Fighter 5E Guide [Abilities, Strategies And Impactful Role]

Blind Fighting (TCoE)

Paladins with the Blind Fighting style develop an uncanny sense of their immediate surroundings. This heightened perception allows them to engage foes even when vision is compromised, granting them a distinct advantage in obscured or low-light conditions.

• Grants 10-foot blindsight
• Ability to see anything not behind total cover or invisible within 10 feet

Defense

Emphasizing protection and survival, the Defense fighting style makes Paladins even more resilient on the battlefield. This style is particularly beneficial for those who are regularly at the forefront of combat, ensuring they can withstand a barrage of attacks.

• +1 AC bonus while wearing armor

Dueling

The Dueling style is ideal for Paladins who prefer precision and finesse in combat. It enhances their prowess when wielding a weapon in one hand, allowing for swift and deadly strikes.

• +2 damage bonus when attacking with a one-handed weapon
• No bonus if a weapon is held in the offhand

Great Weapon Fighting

For Paladins who favor raw power, the Great Weapon Fighting style is a perfect choice. It allows them to harness the full potential of two-handed weapons, ensuring that every blow counts.

• Allows rerolling damage rolls of 1 or 2 when attacking with a two-handed weapon

Interception (TCoE)

The Interception fighting style embodies the Paladin’s role as a guardian and protector. With swift reflexes and a keen sense of duty, Paladins can intervene when an ally is under threat, reducing the impact of an enemy’s strike.

This style emphasizes the Paladin’s commitment to safeguarding their comrades, even at the risk of putting themselves in harm’s way.

• Use a reaction to protect an ally within 5 feet.
• Reduces the damage they take from an attack by 1d10 + proficiency bonus

Protection

With the Protection fighting style, Paladins showcase their role as steadfast defenders. They use their shield or body to ward off attacks aimed at their allies.

This style is invaluable in tight formations or when defending vulnerable party members, ensuring enemies find it harder to land their blows.

• Use a reaction to protect an ally within 5 feet
• Imposes disadvantage on an attack roll targeted at them

Blessed Warrior

Blessed Warrior emphasizes the Paladin’s affinity for divine magic. By blending martial prowess with cleric spells, Paladins can navigate the battlefield with enhanced versatility, tackling both close combat and ranged magical threats.

This fighting style symbolizes a deeper connection to their deity, reinforcing their role as both warriors and conduits of divine power.

• Learn two Cleric cantrips.
• You can swap out cantrips every time you level up

Defense, Interception, or Protection

Choosing between Defense, Interception, or Protection highlights a Paladin’s dedication to defense and protection. While Defense bolsters their resilience, Interception and Protection extend that shield to their allies.

This decision reflects not just their combat style but their overarching philosophy—whether they prioritize their safety, direct intervention, or more passive protective measures.

• Defense offers a +1 AC bonus while wearing armor.
• Interception allows damage reduction for allies.
• Protection imposes a disadvantage on foes’ attacks against allies.

Great Weapon Fighting or Dueling

The choice between Great Weapon Fighting and Dueling encapsulates the age-old debate between raw power and finesse. Great Weapon Fighting optimizes damage output with hefty weapons, ensuring that no strike is wasted.

Dueling, on the other hand, rewards precision and skill with one-handed weapons, emphasizing swift and calculated blows.

• Great Weapon Fighting permits rerolling low-damage rolls with two-handed weapons.
• Dueling grants a damage bonus for one-handed weapon attacks

Blind Fighting

Blind Fighting is a testament to a Paladin’s heightened senses and battlefield awareness. It grants them an almost supernatural ability to detect threats, even when vision is compromised.

This style is particularly beneficial in obscured conditions, ensuring Paladins remain effective combatants, unhindered by darkness or obfuscations.

• Grants 10-foot blindsight
• Ability to see anything not behind total cover or invisible within 10 feet

The Feats of Paladin

In the intricate tapestry of Dungeons & Dragons, feats represent specialized training, unique skills, or experiences that shape adventurers, setting them apart from others.

For Paladins, these feats not only bolster their martial might but also fortify their divine mandate. Below are some of the most synergistic feats of these holy warriors.

Also Read: Feats 5E Guide [How To Choose And Leverage Feats Effectively]

Polearm Master

The Polearm Master feat empowers Paladins who wield halberds, glaives, quarterstaffs, and similar weapons. It permits them to utilize the entirety of their weapon, making swift strikes with the opposite end as a bonus action.

When adversaries approach, the feat allows the Paladin to make an opportunity attack, creating a defensive perimeter around them. This feat essentially transforms a Paladin into a whirlwind of steel and wood, ensuring foes think twice before approaching.

• Utilize the weapon’s opposite end for bonus action attacks.
• Opportunity attacks when enemies enter their reach

Sentinel

As guardians of the weak and defenders of the righteous, Paladins often stand firm against waves of enemies. The Sentinel feat accentuates this role, penalizing foes that dare to bypass them.

With this feat, when a Paladin hits a creature with an opportunity attack, that creature’s speed drops to zero, preventing further movement.

Enemies that engage in combat with allies won’t escape the Paladin’s wrath, as they can still strike even if Disengage is used. It’s a declaration that no adversary shall pass them without consequence.

• Reduce the enemy’s speed to zero with opportunity attacks.
• Can attack even if foes use Disengage

Inspiring Leader

Paladins are not just warriors; they are symbols of hope and righteousness. The Inspiring Leader feat capitalizes on this aura, allowing the Paladin to encourage their allies with rousing speeches or prayers.

After a 10-minute pep talk, several allies gain temporary hit points, providing a cushion against incoming damage. This feat embodies the Paladin’s role as a beacon of hope, ensuring their presence uplifts and protects their comrades.

• Deliver rousing pep talks or prayers.
• Grant allies temporary hit points

Great Weapon Master

For those Paladins who brandish greatswords, mauls, or other two-handed weapons, the Great Weapon Master feat is a godsend. It offers a high-risk, high-reward playstyle; Paladins can choose to take a penalty to their attack rolls in exchange for significant additional damage.

When they fall a foe or land a critical hit, they’re granted a bonus action to strike again. This feat transforms every swing into a potential tide-turner, demonstrating the raw power these holy warriors can unleash.

• Option to take a penalty for added damage
• Bonus action attack upon felling an enemy or landing a critical

Resilient

Even the most dedicated Paladins have their weaknesses, and the Resilient feat helps them shore up potential vulnerabilities. Upon choosing this feat, a Paladin can pick one ability score and increase it by one, up to a maximum of 20.

They gain proficiency in saving throws for that ability. This might be particularly useful for Paladins wishing to bolster their Wisdom or Dexterity, further enhancing their fortitude against various threats.

• Increase the chosen ability score by one (up to 20)
• Gain proficiency in saving throws for that ability

War Caster

While often seen on the frontlines, Paladins also harness divine magic, and the War Caster feat ensures they can do so even in the thick of battle.

It grants them the advantage of Constitution saving throws to maintain concentration on spells when taking damage. Furthermore, they can perform somatic components even with weapons or a shield in hand.

When a foe provokes an opportunity attack, a Paladin can cast a spell instead of making a melee attack. This melding of martial and magical prowess ensures Paladins remain versatile and unpredictable adversaries.

• Advantage on Constitution saves to maintain spell concentration.
• Cast spells for opportunity attacks.
• Perform somatic components with occupied hands.

Paladins not only strengthen their combat capabilities but also their roles as leaders, protectors, and divine conduits. It’s a testament to the depth and flexibility of the Paladin class, ensuring they remain a formidable and multifaceted presence in any adventuring party.

What Are the Ideal Races for Paladins in D&D 5e?

In the vast world of D&D 5e, racial traits often complement specific classes, offering a synergy that makes certain combinations particularly potent.

For Paladins, those who exude charisma and strength find a natural fit, given their divine abilities and martial prowess. Here are some races that stand out as ideal choices for these holy warriors.

Half-elf (+2 Charisma)

Half-elves, with their blend of human adaptability and elven grace, are inherently charismatic. This charisma serves Paladins well, bolstering their spellcasting and leadership abilities.

The flexibility of half-elf traits allows them to enhance other attributes, making them versatile and well-suited to the Paladin’s demands.

Tiefling

Born with a natural inclination towards charisma, Tieflings often find themselves drawn to the path of the Paladin to redeem or defy their infernal heritage.

Their resistance to fire and access to innate spellcasting can provide useful tools in the Paladin’s arsenal, blending their divine might with the arcane.

Aasimar

Aasimars, as celestial-touched beings, have an innate connection to the divine. This bond makes them almost destined for Paladinhood. Their radiant soul abilities, coupled with resistance to necrotic and radiant damage, align perfectly with the holy nature of the Paladin, making them paragons of divine justice.

Yuan-ti Pureblood

An unconventional choice, the Yuan-ti Purebloods bring a unique flavor to the Paladin class. Their resistance to magic and innate spellcasting can be a boon, while their natural charisma reinforces the Paladin’s divine smites and auras. Their serpentine heritage can make for intriguing role-playing dynamics.

Verdan

Originally featured in the “Acquisitions Incorporated” sourcebook, Verdan is naturally empathetic and possesses an ever-changing nature.

Their innate ability to heal and adapt makes them surprisingly good candidates for Paladin roles, emphasizing the class’s focus on protection and healing.

Changeling

Changelings, with their shape-shifting abilities, offer a unique take on the Paladin class. Their natural charisma aligns well with the Paladin’s spellcasting.

At the same time, their transformative abilities can be used for fraud or to adapt to varying combat scenarios, making them versatile defenders of the realm.

Satyr

Hailing from the mythic woods of Theros, Satyrs possess an irrepressible spirit and natural resistance to magic. Their boisterous nature might seem at odds with the disciplined Paladin, but their charisma and fey resilience can create a joyful and tenacious guardian of the light.

Dragonborn (+2 Strength, +1 Charisma)

Dragonborns, with their draconic heritage, naturally gravitate towards roles of power and leadership. The strength they inherit makes them formidable in combat, while their inherent charisma amplifies their divine capabilities.

Their breath weapon and resistance based on their draconic ancestry further complement the Paladin’s offensive and defensive toolkit.

Backgrounds of Paladin 5E

In D&D 5e, a character’s background tells the tale of their origins and early experiences. For Paladins, these backgrounds offer a glimpse into the events that led them down the path of divine righteousness, shaping their convictions and guiding their martial prowess. Here’s a dive into some fitting backgrounds for these paragons of virtue.

Also Read: Backgrounds In The Wild Beyond The Witchlight [DnD 5E]

City Watch (SCAG)

Hailing from the urban landscapes of bustling cities, those of the City Watch background have served as the ever-watchful eyes protecting civilization.

Paladins with this background often have a deep sense of duty, having once ensured law and order amidst the urban chaos.

Their experiences grant them keen observational skills and a network of contacts, making them adept at navigating city politics and street-level intrigue.

Faction Agent (SCAG)

Bound to secretive and influential factions, the Faction Agents operate both in the shadows and the limelight. Paladins who hail from this background likely served as enforcers or emissaries for their respective factions, ensuring agendas were met and secrets kept.

This history equips them with a blend of diplomacy and deception, allowing them to gather information and rally support with ease, all while upholding their divine mandate.

Soldier

The scars of war and the camaraderie of the battlefield shape those of the Soldier background. Paladins with such origins are no strangers to discipline and hierarchy, having served in armies or militias.

Their experiences in the heat of battle have honed their martial skills, while the bonds formed with fellow soldiers give them an unwavering sense of loyalty. Their tactical understanding and ability to inspire troops make them both formidable leaders and frontline champions.

Also Read: Why Are DnD Backgrounds Important? [16 Best Backgrounds of DnD]

Is Paladins a Good Class in 5E?

Yes, Paladins are undeniably a strong and versatile class in D&D 5e. Here’s a breakdown of why Paladins shine in the game:

• Divine Smite: One of the Paladin’s signature abilities, Divine Smite allows them to expend spell slots to deal extra radiant damage on a successful hit. This feature not only packs a punch but also ensures that they are a force to be reckoned with in melee combat.
• Auras: Starting at the 6th level, Paladins emanate auras that grant benefits to allies within a certain range. The most notable is the Aura of Protection, which adds the Paladin’s Charisma modifier to all saving throws for allies within the aura, significantly bolstering the party’s resilience.
• Lay on Hands: A potent healing ability, Lay on Hands provides Paladins with a pool of healing points. They can use this tool to heal allies or cure diseases and poison, making them invaluable in clutch moments.
• Spellcasting: Paladins have access to a list of divine spells that offer both offensive and supportive capabilities. From healing spells like “Cure Wounds” to control spells like “Command,” their spellcasting augments their combat prowess and broadens their utility.
• Sacred Oaths: At the 3rd level, Paladins choose a Sacred Oath that defines their divine commitment, be it the Oath of Devotion, Oath of Vengeance, or others. These oaths provide unique abilities and spells that tailor the Paladin’s role and style, adding depth and customization to the class.
• Tankiness: With the ability to wear heavy armor and often boasting a high Constitution and Charisma, Paladins are durable. Their ability to heal themselves and resist certain types of damage ensures they can stand on the front lines.
• Versatility: Whether you envision your Paladin as a frontline tank, a damage-dealing smiter, or a supportive healer, the class offers the flexibility to accommodate various playstyles.
• Role-playing Potential: As holy warriors bound by oaths, Paladins offer rich role-playing opportunities. Players can grapple with moral dilemmas, uphold their sacred vows, or seek redemption, making for compelling character arcs.

Paladins in D&D 5e are a robust class that excels in both combat and role-playing situations. Their blend of martial skills, divine magic, and sacred vows make them not only effective but also captivating to play.

Also Read: Fighter 5E Guide [Abilities, Strategies And Impactful Role]

FAQs about Paladin 5E