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InBaldur’s Gate 3, there are a few spellcasting-oriented Classes that players can choose from –Classes that actually thrivewhen normal weapons are taken out of the equation. The Wizard is arguably the most iconicDungeons and Dragonsspellcasting class thanks to the breadth of spells they can know. InBaldur’s Gate 3, the Wizard’s diversity makes it hard to pin down its best build.
In the Early Access version ofBaldur’s Gate 3, there were only two subclasses (or Schools) of Wizard to choose from: Evocation, and Abjuration. Because Evocation focuses almost exclusively on damage output, it tends to be thebest Wizard build to follow. Even though the full version of the game has quadrupled the number of available subclasses for Wizards, Evocation remains on top as the best pure Wizard build inBG3.
Updated June 01, 2025 by Erik Petrovich:With the release of ofPatch 8 for Baldur’s Gate 3, Wizard builds have gained another subclass option to choose from: Bladesinging. Though this new subclass offers a new way to play this class, the best BG3 Wizard build that takes advantage of the class' strengths the most uses the Evocation school. As you journey through Baldur’s Gate 3, the best Wizard builds can benefit greatly from picking up a few permanent buffs. Though these often require you to go out of your way, the best permanent buffs can grant powerful stat upgrades and new abilities that push the best Wizard build to its limits. This guide has been updated to include brief information on the new Bladesinging Wizard subclass, as well as a new section that covers the best Wizard permanent buffs and stat upgrades that are worth hunting down.
BG3 Wizard Class Introduction & Overview
The Baldur’s Gate 3 Wizard Class, Explained
“Wizards master the arcane by specialising in individual schools of magic, combining ancient spells with modern research.”
Wizard Playstyle & Signature Abilities
Wizards are the classic spellcasting-focused class ofDungeons and Dragons, brought toBaldur’s Gate 3with all the variety and complexity needed to make the class useful no matter the party.
It’s nigh-impossible to make a melee Wizard, but their spells can be attuned for many different functions in combat: Evocation Wizards focus on damage, Illusion Wizards focus on tricking and deceiving enemies, and Necromancy Wizards summon and control the dead, as one might expect.
Because of their enormous repertoire of knowledge, and the ability to swap prepared spells from their entire available list of spells anytime outside of combat, Wizards are generally considered the class with the most diversity and utility inBaldur’s Gate 3.
Wizards are the only class that can outright learn new spells directly from Scrolls rather than waiting for a level-up, which costs gold. But this cost is reduced if the spell corresponds with one’s chosen BG3 Wizard Subclass, or School.
All Wizard Subclasses
There are a total of eightBG3Schools (subclasses) Wizard players can try out, each of which focuses on different aspects of the class, and offers a selection of unique skills, proficiencies, and other features. As you level up in one of theseBG3Wizard subclasses, you will gain more abilities that are unique to your subclass choice.
Your choice of Wizard subclass can be changed by speaking with Withers, but you will start at Level 1 and have to make your BG3 Wizard build from scratch.
Though this chart displays information for all subclasses, if you want to make best Wizard buildBG3has to offer, you should go for the Evocation School.
(new with Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8)
N / A
Base Wizard Class Proficiencies: Armor, Weapons, Saving Throws, & Skill Choices
When you first start creating your Wizard Build, BG3 offers a selection of basic Class Proficiencies, and a choice of two Wizard Skill Proficiencies.
In addition to Armor, Weapon, and Saving Throw proficiencies that vary for each class, the pool of Skills you can choose from are different for each class.
These cannot be changed once you get past character creation without resetting your build.
Wizard Class Features & Proficiency Bonus – Level By Level
The max level inBaldur’s Gate 3is Level 12, and most of the time, each level you gain will grant something new for your Wizard build. In character creation, you gain the basics for the Wizard class, then steadily gain Feat Choices, new spells and abilities, subclass features, and increase your Proficiency Bonus.
This chart displays everything you may expect to get at each Level-Up as a Wizard in yourBaldur’s Gate 3journey.
+2
+3
+4
1 + INT modifier
6 (base, from Spellbook)
3
2
–
2 + INT modifier
8 (+2)
3 + INT modifier
10 (+2)
4
4 + INT modifier
12 (+2)
5 + INT modifier
14 (+2)
6 + INT modifier
16 (+2)
7 + INT modifier
18 (+2)
1
8 + INT modifier
20 (+2)
9 + INT modifier
22 (+2)
10 + INT modifier
24 (+2)
5
11 + INT modifier
26 (+2)
12 + INT modifier
28 (+2)
BG3 Wizard Subclass Choice – Evocation
Overview Of BG3 Wizard Evocation Subclass
“Evocation spells focus elemental energy into powerful attacks and enchantments. Those who specialize in this school are known as Evokers.”
What Makes Evocation the Best BG3 Wizard School?
All Wizards get access to a list of ridiculously useful out-of-combat spells, but Evocation Wizards specifically hone in on their ability to dish out massive damage in a short amount of time. All Wizards suffer from the lack of easily rechargeable spell slots, but Evocation Wizards can put these limited slots to good use – plus, Arcane Recovery can help when a Long Rest isn’t possible.
The Evocation Wizard is a master ofall things related to magical combat, in large part because their offensive spells no longer damage (or affect) allies thanks to the Spell Sculpt passive.
Just be sure to pick up Evocation spells to take advantage of the subclass' passive, which lets melee party members stay in close range of enemies without worrying about an incoming AoE spell.
The Evocation Wizard is one of eight total Schools that players can choose from in selecting a Wizard Subclass.
The game’s full release further empowered Wizards with a slew of new abilities, proficiencies, bonuses, and the likes with all of the other Subclasses available.
As time goes on, the best Wizard build Subclass could change. But until then, the Evocation Wizard’s ability to protect teammates from their own arcane destruction is really nice at Level 5, when Wizards pick up Fireball.
Evocation Subclass Features – Level By Level
In addition to everything you unlock while leveling as a Wizard, your Subclass also determines what you unlock at certain levels. As a Wizard, you can select a subclass at Level 2.
For the purposes of this guide to theBG3best Wizard build, choose the Evocation School when prompted to choose a Subclass.
BG3 Wizard Build Race, Background, Proficiency, Feats, & Stat Choices
Best BG3 Wizard Race: Githyanki or Half-Elf
The Githyanki are a severely underrated racial choice for most classes, as their innate race spells and Astral Knowledge passive, plus armor and weapon proficiencies, can open up a lot of doors for traditionally non-martial classes. Wizards have no shortage of spells to choose from, but they can be lacking in spell slots.
The improved Mage Hand at Level 1 is a strict upgrade over the default Mage Hand, and it saves a level 1 spell slot. At Level 5, Githyanki gain Misty Step, a normally level 3 spell that can be incredibly valuable for this Spell Slot-starved class.
But aside from useful racial spells, Githyanki give another important benefit to Wizards: armor proficiencies. As a Githyanki Wizard, players can equip Light and Medium armor, a huge AC boost over robes and clothing. The Astral Knowlegde ability can be incredibly useful for Dialogue checks and dice rolls, too.
When it comes down to it, the Githyanki are the best Wizard race BG3 players can choose because it saves players from using Spell Slots, and grants important proficiencies that greatly improve the Wizard’s survivability.
Best Wizard Backgrounds in BG3: Sage or Guild Artisan
Of the backgrounds Wizards can choose inBG3, the Sage is the most obvious choice. It might seem like it’s just a thematic fit, but there’s a gameplay reason the Sage is the best background for Wizards. Choosing the Sage background grants proficiency in History and Arcana checks, two skills that are based on INT, which just makes Wizards that much more effective when making these rolls.
Also, Sages tend to trigger Inspiration from typical Wizard activities, like learning new spells, uncovering lost tomes, and otherwise engaging with the mystical forces of the Weave and other forms of magic.
However, if the Arcane lifestyle doesn’t feel right for you, the Guild Artisan arguably offers the best gameplay improvements for Wizards. The Guild Artisan background grants proficiency in Insight and Persuasion, the latter of which Wizards don’t usually have access to on character creation.
As Persuasion comes up so often inBG3dialogues, it can be worth swapping to this Background instead of the Sage.
Best BG3 Wizard Skill Proficiency Choices: Insight and Persuasion
Wizards get to choose two skills from a list of six at character creation, including Arcana, History, Investigation, Insight, Medicine, and Religion. Choosing the Sage background removes History and Arcana from the pool of other skill proficiencies Wizards can learn at Level 1, leaving four choices remaining, while Guild Artisans just lose Insight.
From the six options, be sure to have Insight and Investigation covered. Investigation is incredibly useful while exploring the world and locating items for quests, as it can highlight things before you even see them.
Insight is mostly useful for dialogues and telling NPC’s true intentions, but doesn’t come up terribly often. If you already have Insight covered by your background, opt for Arcane or History, whichever suits your character more.
Best Wizard Ability Scores & Stat Distribution
To create the bestBG3Wizard build, we recommend putting the majority of points into your Intelligence, followed by Constitution and Dexterity.
The primary stat for most Evocation Wizard spells and abilities inBG3is Intelligence, but Constitution and Dexterity should follow closely behind for survivability and secondary combat bonuses.
Charisma, Strength, and Wisdom are not essential for the Evocation Wizard build.
8
16
14
10
-1
Best BG3 Wizard Leveling Choices
Best Wizard Spells, Feats, & Other Choices At Every Level
InBaldur’s Gate 3, the Wizard class has access to practically any spell in the game thanks to its ability to learn spells directly from Scrolls. But each level-up also provides thisBG3Wizard build with a choice between a huge number of spells to add to their spellbook, and some are much more useful than others.
This table displays the best Wizard build spells you should have equipped and in your Spellbook at these level brackets, whether from choices made while leveling or by learning them from a Scroll. These abilities synergize well with the Evocation Wizard build playstyle and mostly include straight-up damaging spells, ways to CC and debuff enemies, and spells that alter the environment to set up powerful elemental combos or provide a barrier against attacks.
Cleric
Support
Difficult to CC (Charm & Sleep), hybrid Damage and Support spells
Fighter
Melee Tank
Great for drawing attention away from other party members while holding her own
Rogue
Melee Damage/Utility
Lockpicking is incredibly useful outside of Combat, and Sneak Attacks can be deadly
The best Wizard companions inBG3are Shadowheart as the primary support of the party, Lae’Zel as your melee tank, and Astarion as another melee party member who can do extremely high damage and provide some use out of combat too.
Though you’re able to change the class and specialization of any of your companions, these three come with strong pre-determined class and spec combos to balance out your Wizard party composition.
If you are dead set on including a character in your party, simply talk to Withers to respec them to one of the optimal Wizard companion classes listed above. This way, you won’t miss out on that character’s questline, and you won’t have to suffer from an improperly balanced party.
Get The Best BG3 Wizard Gear In All Three Acts
This section covers the best equipment for Evocation Wizards in BG3 across all three Acts. Some pieces from early Acts may still be powerful in later ones, though, and will remain equipped through several Acts.
Deathstalker Mantle
Only available to Dark Urge origin characters, after Alfira joins the camp
Looted in the hidden cellar of the Blighted Village
Purchased from Thulla in the Myconid Colony of the Underdark
Drops from guards just outside Creche Y’llek in Rosymorn Monastery
Found in the Mind Flayer Colony on a skeleton
Vivacious Cloak
Found a chest in the Grand Mausoleum in the Gauntlet of Shar
Bracers of Defence
Looted in the hidden cellar of the Blighted Village (Act 1)
Boots of Speed
Purchased from Thulla in the Myconid Colony of the Underdark (Act 1)
Ring of Arcane Synergy
Drops from guards just outside Creche Y’llek in Rosymorn Monastery (Act 1)
Found in a chest in the House in Deep Shadows
Purchased from Blurg in the Myconid Colony (Act 1)
Hood of the Weave
Cloak of the Weave
Purchased from Helsik in the Devil’s Fee, in the Lower City
Robe of the Weave
Found in an ultra-secret part of Ramazity’s Tower, below the normally-accessible area
Quickspell Gloves
Purchased from front desk projection at Sorcerous Sundries in Lower City
Ring of Mental Inhibition
Found in a chest in the House in Deep Shadows (Act 2)
Markoheshkir
Reach the lower level of Ramazith’s Tower – where players meet Lorroakan – and interact with the “Below” symbol
N/A
Best BG3 Wizard Build Consumables & Permanent Buffs
InBaldur’s Gate 3, Wizard builds can be enhanced further with the use of specific consumables. Certain potions, like the Elixir of Battlemage’s Power, will grant combat-oriented bonuses for this best Wizard build, while others, like the Potion of Angelic Slumber, will make it easier to cast more spells more often by restoring Spell Slots.
If you spot any of these useful Wizard consumables as world loot or enemy loot, in trader inventories, or otherwise, be sure to pick them up and store them in a bag for later use.
Consumable Effects
Potion of Angelic Reprieve
Equivalent to a Short Rest, and restores all Level 1 and 2 Spell Slots. Must sleep for two turns to activate the effect.
Potion of Angelic Slumber
Equivalent to a Long Rest, and restores all Spell Slots. Must sleep for two turns to activate the effect.
Elixirs of Arcane Cultivation
Four types, each granting an additional Level 1 (standard), Level 2 (Greater), Level 3 (Superior), or Level 4 (Supreme) Spell Slot.
Ellixir of Battlemage’s Power
Grants Arcane Acuity for 3 turns, increasing your chance to hit with spell attack rolls by +3, +3, then +1 each active turn (or until you take damage)
Potion of Speed
Grants Hastened for 3 turns, increasing AC by 2 and granting Advantage on DEX saving throws and an additional Action, and increases movement by 30ft.
Best BG3 Wizard Build Permanent Buffs
ThroughoutBG3you will find numerous ways to permanently increase your stats, gain permanent passive bonuses, or otherwise grant your character a permanent buff. To push the bestBG3Wizard Evocation school builds to the next level, keep an eye out for these five best Wizard permanent buffs as you adventure through the Sword Coast and beyond:
Auntie Ethel’s Hair
Grants +1 to any Ability Score of your choice
Must complete Mayrina’s quest in Act 1, but don’t kill Auntie Ethel. When she reaches low HP, she will offer to be spared. Accept her deal and you will gain Auntie Ethel’s Hair.
Awakened
All Illithid Powers now cost 1 Bonus Action instead of an Action
You must succeed all three Saving Throws inside the Githyanki Creche’s Zaith’isk to get this buff.
You may also absorb this skill when playing as Laezel by passing a DC 30 Arcana check (which will usually require a nat 20 roll) to take the power for your own.
The Tharchiate Codex
Once per Long Rest, gain 20 Temporary HP
Find and read “The Tharchiate Codex” within the Sorcerous Vault, which can only be accessed via Sorcerous Sundries in Baldur’s Gate City. You must use the Remove Curse spell to read it.
Mirror of Loss
Grants +2 to one Ability Score of your choice
Find the Mirror of Loss in the Cloister of Sombre Embrace within the House of Grief, found toward the end of Act 2.
Either offer the Necromancy of Thay (and the buff it grants) or pass a DC 25 Religion check to get +2 to any ability score of your choice.
Forbidden Knowledge
+1 to Wisdom checks and Saving Throws
You must find the Necromancy of Thay and successfully complete all three Wisdom checks to decipher its first page to get this buff.
Best BG3 Wizard Multiclass Choices
Maximize Your BG3 Wizard Build With Complimentary Wizard Multiclass Options
Players can choose to Multiclass beginning at Level 2. Look for the “Add Class” button on the top right of the level up overview menu – this will open up a new menu where players can choose one of any other class inBaldur’s Gate 3when selected.
Fighter Multiclass – Wizard 10/Fighter 2
Allocating two levels into the Fighter class as any other class grants access to one of the game’s most powerful class abilities: Action Surge. One of the iconic skills of the Fighter class, Action Surge is a Bonus Action that grants the caster another Action that turn.
Action Surge can be used once every short or long rest, granting the Wizard another Action to cast a spell when needed.
The Fighter class does not normally start with this ability, meaning that players must invest two levels into it – and lose out on Level 6 Wizard spells. However, the ability to take two actions in one turn is remarkably strong for casters, and the added armor proficiencies granted by the Fighter class are just the cherry on top.
Cleric Multiclass – Cleric 11/Wizard 1
One of the best features of the Wizard class is its ability to learn abilities from scrolls, but this ability becomes more powerful when paired with another Prepared Spellcaster class, like the Cleric. This multiclass Wizard build is not one that focuses on the Wizard, as only one level is needed to learn from scrolls. Instead, it opts for 11 levels in Cleric, leaving just one in Wizard.
This multiclass choice has little impact on a character’s ability to use high-level spells. Because both classes are Prepared Spellcasters, and the ability to learn from scrolls only requires one level, a Cleric 11 Wizard 1 character will still be able to use Level 6 spells and have Level 6 spell slots unlocked.
Players will lose out on Arcane Recovery slots, but lose very few other benefits of both classes. Clerics rely on Wisdom to cast, however, which can lead to competition between Wisdom and Intelligence at every ability score improvement opportunity.
