Optimal Multiclass Combinations for Bards in Dungeons and Dragons 3.5
The Bard class in Dungeons and Dragons 3.5 offers a wide array of spells, abilities, and feats that can be incredibly versatile when multiclassed with other classes. Among the most popular and effective combinations are those that enhance the bardrsquo;s role as a lore master, dirgesinger, or support class. This article explores some of the best multiclassing options and their mechanical and narrative benefits.
1. Lore Master and Dirgesinger
The Lore Master and Dirgesinger multiclass combinations offer both narrative and mechanical benefits. The Lore Master archetype allows a bard to gain a wealth of obscure knowledge, making them a narrative powerhouse. This class enhances the bardrsquo;s library and allows them to retrieve even more specific and unique information. Meanwhile, the Dirgesinger class grants the bard the ability to influence undead with their music, a highly powerful and thematic choice when partnered with a necromancer. This combination is highly potent, especially when the bard becomes an undead creature themselves—such as a vampire, corpse, bone, or ghoul—capable of creating more undead under their control. This prestige class is often overlooked, making it one of the most underrated in Dungeons and Dragons 3.5.
2. Bard and Ranger
Multiclassing a bard and a ranger allows for a versatile character who can adapt to both city and wilderness environments. Both classes share stealth-based skills, making the bard capable of both tracking and surviving in various settings. The rangerrsquo;s skills can complement the bardrsquo;s abilities, enhancing overall survivability and utility.
3. Hexblade Warlock
A 2-level dip in Hexblade Warlock can provide significant mechanical benefits. This multiclass enables the bard to gain medium armor and shield proficiency, as well as the Hexblade Curse and Eldritch Blast. With two Eldritch Blast invocations—such as Agonizing Blast and either Repelling Blast or Eldritch Spear—the bard can achieve a good offensive capability. The Hex can be used once per short rest, and the hexblade curse provides another cantrip and three 1st-level spells, all of which can be upcast using bardic inspiration slots. This combination is particularly strong for survival purposes, as the additional 1st-level spell slots match well with bardic inspiration recovery. Hex Shield provides an extra layer of protection, with upcasted Hex lasting longer. Options like Armor of Agathys or Hellish Rebuke can further enhance defensive capabilities.
4. Cleric
Multiclassing a life domain cleric with the College of Spirits bard provides a powerful-healing combination. This 1-level dip grants extra spell access, making use of the clericrsquo;s Cure Wounds ability with the bardrsquo;s Charisma as the casting stat. This combination is ideal for a character who needs significant healing support. The Healing Word can now max out at an additional 3 points with a 16 Charisma, providing a decent heal as a bonus action. The Twilight Domain offers support and tactics, enhancing the bardrsquo;s role as a healer and battlefield commander.
5. Paladin
A 2-5-level dip in Paladin, combined with the College of Swords or Whispers, offers an interesting mix. A 2-level dip into Paladin provides armor proficiency and a better selection of martial weapons, while the 2-level dip gets only 1 level of spell slot progression. The Divine Smite ability adds significant damage output. The College of Whispers leads to a more controversial option, combining Bardic Inspiration smites along with Divine Smite. While this can be devastating, higher-level spell choices and the loss of Magical Secrets at higher levels may be a drawback. Considerations include whether you want to lean more towards martial or spellcasting, with Aura of Protection often being a preferred option for charisma-based multiclassing.
6. Rogue
A 1-level dip into Rogue provides an additional skill proficiency and two skill expertise choices, enhancing the bardrsquo;s versatility. A 2-level dip results in a significant loss of an ASI and 6th-level spell slot, but the benefit of Cunning Action makes it a notable choice. Two levels also give access to the Roguersquo;s Scout subclass, granting expertise in Nature and Survival, along with a valuable reaction for safety.
Each of these multiclass combinations offers unique benefits, allowing bards to adapt to a wide range of adventures and roles. Whether focusing on lore, healing, combat, or stealth, a well-considered multiclass selection can enhance a bardrsquo;s capabilities and make them a memorable and effective character.