Baldur's Gate spell memorization, healing and beginner spells
Distinguish learned spells, prepared slots and scrolls, then plan a useful early spellbook.
Edition covered
The 1998 Sword Coast campaign and its AD&D second-edition fundamentals. Pictures show Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition, whose extra companions, kits, interface and optional campaigns differ from the original release. Tales of the Sword Coast is identified separately; Siege of Dragonspear is outside this guide.
7 items · one picture per entry · open a picture for full size.
Spell resources
Priest spellbook
Common misunderstanding: It does not use mage scroll learning.
Scroll or wand
Common misunderstanding: Charges and class restrictions still apply.
Early spell purposes
More spells & rest
- Known mage spell — Stored in the spellbook · Knowing it does not prepare it
- Memorization slot — Holds a chosen prepared spell · Changing it requires rest before use
Quick notes
- Learning is different from preparing. A mage can know a spell without having it ready to cast.
- Choose effects for the encounter. Direct damage is only one use of magic.
- Rest before a difficult expedition. A new preparation is not immediately available just because its icon appears in a slot.
- Aim area effects carefully. Some effects can harm or hinder allies.
Some effects can harm or hinder allies. Pause before targeting, inspect the area, and avoid putting a disabling spell over the warrior who is keeping enemies away from the caster.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Baldur's Gate publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Beamdog game manuals | files.beamdog.com |
| Publisher Adventurer guide | store.steampowered.com |