Divine Smite, a skill you learn at level two, is the cornerstone of any Paladin build. It’s where most of your damage comes from, and it’s particularly useful in Act 2, when you face the undead in greater number.
Best level 1 spells for Paladin
- Protection from Good and Evil
- Bless
- Thunderous Smite
- Compelled Duel
Thunderous Smite deals thunder damage and pushes foes away, while Compelled Duel makes them focus on you. Bless powers up several allies. Protection from Good and Evil has its uses in places such as Auntie Ethel’s lair, though if you’re not bothered by dealing with charm or fear, you could replace it with Favor. Favor lets your strikes deal extra Radiant damage
Best level 2 spells for Paladin
- Silence
- Magic Weapon
- Lesser Restoration
Enemy magic users are a nightmare, and silence gives you a chance to render them harmless while you deal with other threats. Magic Weapon boosts your weapon’s power, and Lesser Restoration removes certain status ailments from your allies – not a huge problem in Act 1, but a helpful support option in Act 2.
Best level 3 spells for Paladin
- Warden of Vitality
- Crusader’s Mantle
- Beacon of Hope
I opted for a support build here. Warden of Vitality lets you cast a healing spell as a bonus action, and Beacon of Hope ensures your allies will recover the maximum amount of healing possible from any healing spell. Crusader’s Mantle adds some extra Radiant damage to your allies’ weapon attacks.
