Best 2nd-level Spells in BG3

Discover the best 2nd-level spells in Baldur's Gate 3. Learn about powerful options like Hold Person, Cloud of Daggers, and Invisibility to dominate combat and exploration.

Baldur's Gate 3 offers a variety of potent 2nd-level spells that can significantly impact combat and utility. This guide highlights the most effective options available to different classes.

List of Best 2nd-Level Spells in BG3

Best 2nd-level Spells	Classes
Blindness	Bard, Cleric, Sorcerer, Wizard
Cloud of Daggers	Bard, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Darkness	Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Enlarge/Reduce	Sorcerer, Wizard
Hold Person	Bard, Cleric, Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Invisibility	Bard, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Lesser Restoration	Bard, Cleric, Druid, Paladin, Ranger
Misty Step	Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Prayer of Healing	Cleric
Scorching Ray	Sorcerer, Wizard

Blindness

Blindness is a useful debuff that causes the victim to have Disadvantage on Attack Rolls, and attackers to have Advantage when attacking the victim. It targets Constitution Saving Throws and does not require concentration, making it a solid choice against non-humanoid foes that are immune to Hold Person.

Cloud of Daggers

This persistent AoE spell affects a small area, dealing 4d4 (4-16) damage to all characters within its radius each turn. Enemies take damage by passing through the area, and can be forced back into it by Shoving or abilities like Warlock's Repelling Blast, making it effective for area denial and damage.

Darkness

An upgraded version of Fog Cloud, Darkness obscures characters and prevents ranged attacks. A notable combo involves a Warlock with the Devil's Sight invocation, allowing them to see within the magical darkness and gain advantage on attack rolls. This is particularly strong for Pact of the Blade Warlocks.

Enlarge/Reduce

This spell has niche applications, primarily for shrinking characters (via Reduce) to access small areas like burrows or holes. Combined with the Mask of the Shapeshifter, any character can be made small enough to explore these tight spaces.

Hold Person

Arguably one of the best 2nd-level spells, Hold Person paralyzes a humanoid enemy, rendering them unable to act and guaranteeing critical hits from attackers within 3 meters. While it has weaknesses such as requiring concentration, the enemy getting a new save each turn, and its limitation to humanoids, its effectiveness against difficult foes, especially when combined with Paladin smites, is immense.

Invisibility

Invisibility offers numerous applications both in and out of combat, proving useful for avoiding enemy line of sight when dealing with merchants or guards. It provides a stealth advantage that can bypass obstacles and vigilant patrols.

Lesser Restoration

A crucial support spell, Lesser Restoration can cure conditions like blindness, deafness, paralysis, and poisoning. It's essential for maintaining party effectiveness by removing debilitating status effects.

Misty Step

This bonus action spell allows for instant teleportation up to 18 meters. Misty Step is invaluable for repositioning, escaping danger, or reaching advantageous positions on the battlefield without expending a full action.

Prayer of Healing

A potent out-of-combat healing spell, Prayer of Healing restores 2d8 + Spellcasting Ability Modifier hit points to multiple creatures. It's an efficient way to recover after battles, especially for Clerics.

Scorching Ray

Scorching Ray is a direct damage spell that fires three rays, each dealing 2d6 fire damage. It's versatile as each ray can target different enemies or focus on a single powerful foe, making it a reliable damage option for Sorcerers and Wizards.