In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, the barbarian class stands as a beacon of raw power and primal fury. With its unmatched strength and resilience, the barbarian can cleave through hordes of enemies with ease. However, for those seeking to enhance their barbarian’s capabilities, multiclassing can unlock a world of new possibilities. In this article, we delve into the best multiclass options for the barbarian in 2024, exploring the synergies and strategies that can elevate your character to new heights.
One of the most effective multiclass options for the barbarian is the fighter. The fighter’s martial prowess and combat maneuvers complement the barbarian’s brute force, creating a formidable hybrid capable of both devastating damage output and tactical flexibility. By combining the barbarian’s Rage with the fighter’s Action Surge, you can unleash a torrent of attacks that can decimate even the most formidable opponents. Additionally, the fighter’s Battle Master subclass grants access to a variety of combat maneuvers that can control the battlefield and disrupt your enemies’ plans.
Another excellent multiclass option for the barbarian is the ranger. The ranger’s connection to nature and expertise in ranged combat provide the barbarian with versatility and adaptability. By combining the barbarian’s Rage with the ranger’s Hunter’s Mark ability, you can deal consistent and devastating damage from afar. Furthermore, the ranger’s subclass options, such as the Beast Master and the Gloom Stalker, offer unique abilities that can enhance your character’s combat prowess or grant them access to powerful companions and stealthy tactics.
Unleashing Fury with a Multiclass into Fighter
Combining the raw strength of the barbarian with the precision and versatility of the fighter can create a formidable warrior capable of conquering any battlefield. By multiclassing into the fighter, the barbarian gains access to a wider range of weapons, fighting styles, and special abilities that enhance their combat prowess.
Enhanced Weapon Proficiency and Versatility
The fighter grants proficiency with all martial weapons, expanding the barbarian’s arsenal beyond the traditional greataxe and greatsword. Moreover, the fighter’s Fighting Style feature allows the barbarian to specialize in a particular combat style, such as archery or two-weapon fighting, unlocking unique combat bonuses. Table 1 below summarizes the key weapon proficiencies and bonuses gained by multiclassing into the fighter.
| Fighter Level | Weapon Proficiencies | Fighting Style Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | All Martial Weapons | Fighting Style of choice |
| 5 | Extra Attack (2 attacks) | – |
| 11 | Extra Attack (3 attacks) | – |
Embracing the Wild with a Druid Multiclass
Combining the primal fury of the barbarian with the versatile nature magic of the druid creates a formidable multiclass option. Druids offer a range of abilities that complement the barbarian’s strengths, such as:
Wild Shape
At 2nd level, druids gain the ability to transform into animals, granting them enhanced mobility, stealth, and combat capabilities. This versatility allows barbarians to adapt to various situations and terrain, making them even more formidable in combat.
Natural Recovery
Starting at 7th level, druids gain the ability to recover hit points while in their Wild Shape form. This passive healing ability synergizes well with the barbarian’s endurance and Rage ability, providing additional resilience in the thick of battle.
Enhancing Resilience with a Multiclass into Paladin
Combining the raw power of a Barbarian with the unwavering resilience of a Paladin can forge a formidable multiclass option. By dipping into the Paladin class, Barbarians gain access to several potent abilities that bolster their survivability and combat prowess.
Divine Smite
Divine Smite grants Barbarians the ability to infuse their attacks with radiant damage. This additional damage scales with the Paladin level, providing a significant boost to their offensive capabilities. When combined with the Barbarian’s Rage ability, Divine Smite becomes even more devastating, allowing Barbarians to burst down enemies with ease.
Lay on Hands
Lay on Hands allows Barbarians to restore a significant amount of hit points to themselves or their allies. This ability provides a much-needed safety net during intense battles, allowing Barbarians to quickly recover from heavy injuries. Additionally, Lay on Hands can be combined with Barbarian’s Rage to gain temporary hit points, further enhancing their survivability.
Aura of Protection
At higher Paladin levels, they gain access to Aura of Protection, which grants a bonus to saving throws to all allies within a certain radius. This aura significantly reduces the chances of Barbarians and their companions being affected by debilitating status effects, such as spells or environmental hazards. Aura of Protection is an invaluable tool for safeguarding the entire party in challenging encounters.
| Paladin Level | Divine Smite Damage |
|---|---|
| 2 | 1d8 radiant damage |
| 5 | 2d8 radiant damage |
| 9 | 3d8 radiant damage |
Conquering the Elements with an Elemental Monk
Barbarians are renowned for their martial prowess, but they can become even more formidable by embracing the power of the elements. Multiclassing into monk, particularly the Way of the Four Elements, grants barbarians access to a range of elemental abilities that enhance their combat prowess and versatility.
Elemental Disciplines
The Way of the Four Elements grants barbarians four elemental disciplines: Air, Earth, Fire, and Water. Each discipline provides unique powers that complement the barbarian’s abilities. For instance, the Air discipline enhances speed and mobility, the Earth discipline bolsters defense and stability, the Fire discipline amplifies damage output, and the Water discipline grants healing and restorative abilities.
Fists of the Elements
Barbarians who multiclass into monk gain access to the Fists of the Elements technique. This technique allows them to infuse their unarmed strikes with elemental energy, dealing additional damage of the chosen element. The damage type varies depending on the discipline, adding versatility to the barbarian’s attacks.
Ki-Empowered Rage
The combination of barbarian rage and monk’s ki creates a potent synergy. The barbarian can use ki points to enhance their rage, increasing its duration and potency. This allows them to unleash devastating attacks for extended periods.
Elemental Bastion
At higher levels, the barbarian gains the Elemental Bastion ability. This ability allows them to create an elemental aura that protects them from damage of a specific type. This ability enhances their already formidable survivability and makes them even more resilient in combat.
Sample Build
To maximize the power of a barbarian/monk multiclass, consider the following sample build:
| Level | Class |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | Barbarian |
| 6-10 | Monk (Way of the Four Elements) |
| 11-20 | Barbarian |
Dominating the Battle with a Sorcerer Multiclass
A Sorcerer multiclass grants the Barbarian access to a variety of powerful spells, including spells that deal damage, control the battlefield, and enhance their own abilities. This makes the Barbarian a more versatile and deadly combatant.
Barbarian Archetypes Compatible with Sorcerer
Not all Barbarian archetypes synergize well with the Sorcerer multiclass. Some archetypes, such as the Totem Warrior and the Berserker, focus on raw physical damage and may not benefit much from the Sorcerer’s spells. However, other archetypes, such as the Battle Master and the Storm Herald, have abilities that can complement the Sorcerer’s spells well.
Progression
The optimal level progression for a Barbarian/Sorcerer multiclass depends on the specific archetype and playstyle. However, a common progression is to take Barbarian to level 5 or 6 for Extra Attack and Feral Instinct, then multiclass into Sorcerer for a few levels to gain access to important spells and abilities.
Spell Selection
The Sorcerer spell list offers a wide range of spells that can benefit the Barbarian. Some of the most useful spells for Barbarians include:
| Level | Spell |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mage Armor, Shield |
| 2 | Misty Step, Web |
| 3 | Fireball, Haste |
| 4 | Greater Invisibility, Polymorph |
Ultimately, the best spells for a Barbarian/Sorcerer will vary depending on the specific archetypes and playstyle.
Enhancing Versatility with a Rogue Multiclass
Combining the raw power of a Barbarian with the cunning skills of a Rogue creates a formidable multiclass that excels in versatility. The following subsections explore the benefits of a Barbarian/Rogue multiclass:
Sneak Attack Synergy
The Rogue’s Sneak Attack ability allows them to deal additional damage when they hit an opponent from a position of advantage. By using the Barbarian’s Rage and Reckless Attack features, the multiclass not only gains advantage on attacks, but also deals extra damage on top of the Sneak Attack bonus.
Skill Proficiencies
Rogues are renowned for their proficiency in a wide range of skills, including Stealth, Perception, and Sleight of Hand. Multiclassing into Rogue grants access to these skills, providing the multiclass with additional utility and adaptability in various situations.
Cunning Action
The Rogue’s Cunning Action feature allows them to take an additional action on their turn. This action can be used for a variety of purposes, such as Dashing to move around the battlefield, Disengaging to escape from danger, or Hiding to gain advantage on attacks.
Evasion
Starting at 7th level, Rogues gain Evasion, a defensive ability that allows them to take no damage from effects that cause them to make Dexterity saving throws, such as traps or dragon breath. This ability can greatly increase the survivability of the Barbarian/Rogue multiclass.
Uncanny Dodge
At 5th level, Rogues gain Uncanny Dodge, a reaction that allows them to halve the damage they take from an attack. This ability synergizes well with the Barbarian’s Rage, increasing the multiclass’s ability to shrug off damage.
Expertise
Rogues gain Expertise in two skills of their choice. This proficiency bonus doubles for any checks using those skills, making the multiclass even more versatile and skilled in certain areas.
Roguish Archetypes
Choosing a Rogue archetype can provide the multiclass with additional abilities and bonuses. For example, the Thief archetype grants access to Fast Hands, allowing the multiclass to use their bonus action to make a Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check.
| Barbarian Level | Rogue Level | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | 6 | Sneak Attack, Evasion, Expertise, Uncanny Dodge |
| 16 | 4 | Roguish Archetype, Cunning Action |
| 18 | 2 | Skill Proficiencies, Fighting Style |
Unleashing Demonic Power with a Warlock Multiclass
The combination of a barbarian’s raw power and a warlock’s arcane prowess creates a formidable hybrid that can unleash devastating spells while enduring heavy blows. This multiclass offers a unique blend of martial might and spellcasting versatility.
Subclass Synergy: Relentless Rage and Hexblade
The Relentless Rage feature of the Barbarian synergizes perfectly with the Hexblade Patron of the Warlock. Hexblade’s Curse allows the Warlock to deal extra damage to a target, which can be amplified by the Barbarian’s Rage damage bonus. Additionally, the Relentless Rage feature prevents the Barbarian from being knocked unconscious while raging, granting them remarkable durability.
Spellcasting Options: Eldritch Blast and Armor of Agathys
The Warlock’s spell list offers an array of options that complement the Barbarian’s abilities. Eldritch Blast provides a ranged damage-dealing option, while Armor of Agathys absorbs incoming damage and deals cold damage to attackers. These spells enhance the Barbarian’s combat effectiveness by providing additional offensive and defensive capabilities.
Optimal Level Progression: Barbarian 5 / Warlock 3
A recommended level progression is Barbarian 5 / Warlock 3. This provides the Barbarian with Extra Attack, which significantly increases their damage output. The three levels in Warlock grant access to Pact of the Blade, allowing the Barbarian to summon a weapon that can benefit from their Rage damage bonus.
Subclass: Fiend or Genie
The Fiend or Genie Warlocks offer additional benefits that enhance the Barbarian’s capabilities. Fiend Warlocks gain temporary hit points when they kill an enemy, which synergizes well with the Barbarian’s durability. Genie Warlocks can summon a magical vessel that provides a variety of boons, including increased damage output and defenses.
Versatile Combatant
This multiclass creates a versatile combatant that can adapt to various situations. The Barbarian’s Rage and the Warlock’s spells provide a wide range of options for dealing with different types of enemies and challenges.
Unmatched Durability
The combination of the Barbarian’s Rage and the Warlock’s Armor of Agathys grants exceptional durability, allowing them to withstand heavy punishment while dealing out significant damage.
Explosive Damage Potential
The Hexblade’s Curse, Relentless Rage, and Eldritch Blast combine to create an explosive damage potential that can devastate enemies. This multiclass is a formidable force in both melee and ranged combat.
Commanding the Undead with a Necromancer Wizard
Through the unholy alliance of a Barbarian and a Necromancer Wizard, you can unleash an army of undead horrors upon your foes. As a Barbarian, you’ll engage in melee combat, commanding the undead to support you.
Graveborn’s Path for the Necromancer Wizard
The Graveborn subclass empowers the Necromancer Wizard with the ability to raise undead creatures from fallen enemies. Combining this subclass with the Undead Warlock Patron option grants you even more control over the undead.
Rage Conduit for the Barbarian
The Rage Conduit feat allows you to channel your Barbarian rage into your undead minions. This enhances their attacks and defenses, making them more formidable in battle.
Third-Level Spell: Animate Dead
At third level, Necromancer Wizards gain access to the Animate Dead spell. This spell allows you to create up to four undead Skeletons or Zombies from corpses. These undead creatures can be controlled and used to support your Barbarian in combat.
Fifth-Level Spell: Create Undead
The Create Undead spell provides you with even greater control over the undead. This spell allows you to create powerful undead such as Wights or Ghouls. These creatures can serve as formidable companions in battle.
Seventh-Level Spell: Finger of Death
At seventh level, Necromancer Wizards unlock the Finger of Death spell. This deadly spell instantly kills a creature with a touch, transforming it into a Zombie under your command.
Ninth-Level Spell: Create Greater Undead
The Create Greater Undead spell grants you the ability to conjure some of the most fearsome undead creatures. You can choose from a variety of creatures, including Mummies, Vampires, and even Liches. These creatures possess potent abilities and can significantly bolster your army of undead.
By combining the strengths of the Barbarian and the Necromancer Wizard, you can establish a formidable alliance that dominates the battlefield with an undead horde.
| Class | Subclass | Feats |
|---|---|---|
| Barbarian | Any | Rage Conduit |
| Wizard | Necromancer | Undead Patron |
Embracing the Arcane Arts with a Wizard Multiclass
Combining Barbarian’s raw strength with Wizard’s arcane prowess creates a formidable multiclass. Here’s a detailed exploration of the benefits:
Enhanced Combat Prowess
Barbarian’s rage synergies well with Wizard spells. Spells like Shield or Mage Armor bolster your defenses, while utility spells like Longstrider improve your movement speed. Rage’s damage bonus stacks with spell damage, creating a potent offensive force.
Versatile Spellcasting
Wizard multiclass grants access to a plethora of spells. From evocation spells like Fireball to utility spells like Identify, you’ll have a wide range of options to suit any situation.
Improved Survivability
Wizard’s access to healing spells like Cure Wounds augments Barbarian’s already impressive survivability. Additionally, spells like Blink or Dimension Door provide situational escapes or tactical advantages.
Arcane Strike: A Devastating Combo
At Wizard level 2, you gain access to the Arcane Strike feature. Combining this with Barbarian’s Rage allows you to imbue your weapon attacks with elemental damage, boosting your damage output significantly.
Sustained Concentration
Barbarian’s proficiency in Constitution saves boosts your concentration. This is crucial for maintaining concentration on powerful spells like Haste or Greater Invisibility.
Improved Spell Pool
By multiclassing Wizard, you gain access to the Wizard spellbook. This provides a vast pool of spells to prepare each day, giving you more options and flexibility.
Skill Versatility
Wizard’s proficiency in Intelligence skills complements Barbarian’s proficiency in Strength and Constitution skills. You’ll gain access to skills like Arcana and History, boosting your problem-solving abilities.
Magic Item Proficiency
Wizard’s proficiency with Arcana grants you expertise in identifying and using magic items. This can be a significant boon in loot-heavy campaigns.
Specialized Archetypes
Different Wizard Archetypes offer unique benefits. Bladesingers, for example, enhance your melee combat prowess, while Divination Wizards improve your predictive abilities.
Level Progression Guide
| Level | Class |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | Barbarian |
| 6-8 | Wizard |
| 9-20 | Barbarian |
The Best Multiclass Options for Barbarians in 2024
Barbarians are one of the most versatile classes in Dungeons & Dragons, and there are many different ways to build a barbarian character. If you’re looking to multiclass your barbarian, there are a few options that can be particularly powerful.
One of the best multiclass options for barbarians is the fighter. Fighters get access to a variety of combat feats, which can give your barbarian a significant boost in damage output. Fighters also get access to the Action Surge ability, which allows them to take an extra action on their turn. This can be incredibly powerful for barbarians, as it allows them to attack more often or use their abilities more frequently.
Another good multiclass option for barbarians is the rogue. Rogues get access to a variety of skills and abilities that can make them very sneaky and versatile. Rogues also get access to the Sneak Attack ability, which allows them to deal extra damage to targets that are unaware of them. This can be very helpful for barbarians, as it allows them to take down enemies quickly and efficiently.
