The Hexblade Warlock is a unique and versatile subclass in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, blending the mystical powers of a warlock with the martial prowess of a hexblade. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how to effectively level a Hexblade Warlock, focusing on key attributes, spells, features, and playstyle strategies. Whether you're a new player or an experienced veteran looking to optimize your character, this guide will help you navigate the complexities of the Hexblade Warlock.
Understanding the Hexblade Warlock Subclass
The Hexblade Warlock subclass is derived from the Xanathar's Guide to Everything and is characterized by its connection to a mysterious patron known as the Hexblade. This patron often takes the form of a sentient weapon or a powerful entity from the Shadowfell, granting the warlock unique abilities that enhance both magical and physical combat.
Key Features of the Hexblade Warlock
- Hexblade's Curse: At 1st level, you gain the ability to place a curse on a target, increasing your damage against them and providing healing upon their defeat.
- Hex Warrior: This feature allows you to use your Charisma modifier for attack and damage rolls with certain weapons, making you effective in melee combat.
- Pact Boon: At 3rd level, you choose a Pact Boon, which further defines your playstyle, whether it be through a familiar, an enhanced weapon, or a spellbook.
- Eldritch Invocations: As you level up, you gain access to various invocations that can augment your abilities, grant you new spells, or enhance your combat capabilities.
Leveling Path: A Step-by-Step Guide
When leveling a Hexblade Warlock, the order in which you allocate ability scores, choose spells, and select invocations can significantly impact your effectiveness in combat. Here’s a structured approach to leveling your Hexblade Warlock:
Ability Scores
Your primary focus should be on boosting your Charisma, as it directly affects your spellcasting and melee attacks with Hex Warrior. Here’s a suggested order for ability score allocation:
1. Charisma: Maximize this score as it is your primary spellcasting ability.
2. Constitution: A higher Constitution score will improve your hit points, allowing you to survive longer in combat.
3. Dexterity: If you prefer finesse weapons, a decent Dexterity score will enhance your armor class and initiative.
Level Distribution and Key Features
Below is a recommended leveling path for your Hexblade Warlock, highlighting crucial features and spells to consider at each level.
Levels 1-3: Establishing Your Foundation
- Level 1:
- Choose the Hexblade subclass.
- Select spells like Hex for damage amplification and Eldritch Blast for your ranged attacks.
- Level 2:
- Gain access to the Eldritch Invocations feature. Consider taking Agonizing Blast to add your Charisma modifier to Eldritch Blast damage.
- Level 3:
- Choose your Pact Boon. The Pact of the Blade is a solid choice for melee-focused builds, while Pact of the Tome can provide additional spell options.
Levels 4-6: Expanding Your Arsenal
- Level 4:
- Increase your Charisma score (or Constitution if you prefer survivability).
- Choose spells such as Armor of Agathys for defense and Misty Step for mobility.
- Level 5:
- You gain access to 3rd-level spells. Consider Fear for crowd control or Vampiric Touch for melee healing.
- Level 6:
- At this level, you can enhance your combat effectiveness with invocations like Thirsting Blade, allowing you to attack twice with your Pact weapon.
Levels 7-10: Mastering Combat and Spells
- Level 7:
- Access to 4th-level spells. Shadow of Moil is a great choice for enhancing your survivability and offense in combat.
- Level 8:
- Increase your Charisma score.
- Choose spells like Dimension Door for tactical repositioning.
- Level 9:
- Gain access to 5th-level spells. Consider Hunger of Hadar for area control or Hold Monster for incapacitating foes.
- Level 10:
- You gain Armor of Hexes, allowing you to reduce damage from attacks against your cursed target.
Levels 11-15: Becoming a Force to Reckon With
- Level 11:
- Access to 6th-level spells. Investiture of Flame can provide powerful damage output while enhancing your defenses.
- Level 12:
- Increase your Constitution score for improved hit points and survivability.
- Level 13:
- Gain access to 7th-level spells. Etherealness provides incredible mobility and escape options.
- Level 14:
- You gain Master of Hexes, allowing you to move your Hexblade’s Curse to a new target upon defeating an enemy.
- Level 15:
- Access to 8th-level spells. Power Word Stun can incapacitate a powerful enemy without a saving throw.
Levels 16-20: The Pinnacle of Power
- Level 16:
- Increase your Charisma score to maximize spell effectiveness.
- Level 17:
- Gain access to 9th-level spells. Foresight provides you with unparalleled advantages in combat.
- Level 18:
- Your Hexblade's Curse becomes even more potent, offering additional benefits.
- Level 19:
- Increase your Constitution or Charisma score, depending on your focus.
- Level 20:
- Gain the One with Shadows aura, allowing you to become invisible under certain conditions, enhancing your stealth capabilities.
Spell Selection
Choosing the right spells is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness as a Hexblade Warlock. Here are some recommended spells at various levels:
Cantrips
- Eldritch Blast: Your primary ranged attack, scaling as you level.
- Hex: Essential for increasing damage on your target.
1st-Level Spells
- Armor of Agathys: Provides temporary hit points and deals damage to attackers.
- Shield: Increases your AC as a reaction for better survivability.
2nd-Level Spells
- Misty Step: Grants mobility, allowing you to reposition effectively in combat.
3rd-Level Spells
- Fear: Excellent for crowd control, forcing enemies to flee.
4th-Level Spells
- Shadow of Moil: Creates an area of darkness while enhancing your defenses.
5th-Level Spells
- Hold Monster: A powerful control spell to incapacitate foes.
6th-Level Spells
- Investiture of Flame: A damage-dealing spell that also provides defensive benefits.
7th-Level Spells
- Etherealness: Grants you the ability to traverse the ethereal plane, avoiding many forms of damage.
8th-Level Spells
- Power Word Stun: A game-changing spell that can take out key enemies without a saving throw.
9th-Level Spells
- Foresight: Provides incredible advantages and protection in combat.
Final Thoughts
Leveling a Hexblade Warlock offers a unique blend of spellcasting and melee combat. This guide provides a roadmap for optimizing your character, but remember that your playstyle and the needs of your party can influence your decisions. Embrace the versatility of the Hexblade Warlock, and you'll find yourself a formidable force on the battlefield. Whether you prefer to strike from the shadows or charge headfirst into combat, the Hexblade Warlock can adapt to any situation, making them an exciting and powerful choice in Dungeons & Dragons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the optimal level progression for a Hexblade Warlock?
The optimal level progression for a Hexblade Warlock usually involves taking levels in Warlock first to gain access to key features like Hexblade's Curse and Pact Magic. It's generally recommended to reach at least level 3 for the Pact of the Blade feature, then consider multi-classing if desired.
Which spells should I prioritize when leveling a Hexblade Warlock?
When leveling a Hexblade Warlock, prioritize spells that complement your melee capabilities, such as 'Shield', 'Hex', and 'Eldritch Blast'. As you level up, consider spells like 'Misty Step' for mobility and 'Counterspell' for versatility in encounters.
How do I enhance my melee damage as a Hexblade Warlock?
To enhance your melee damage as a Hexblade Warlock, focus on selecting Eldritch Invocations that boost your melee attacks, like 'Thirsting Blade' for extra attacks and 'Improved Pact Weapon' for enhanced weapon damage. Also, consider boosting your Charisma score to increase overall damage output.
What are the best feats to choose when leveling a Hexblade Warlock?
Some of the best feats for a Hexblade Warlock include 'War Caster' for improved concentration and spellcasting in combat, 'Great Weapon Master' if you favor two-handed weapons, and 'Mobile' to increase your maneuverability in battles.
Should I multi-class with a Hexblade Warlock, and if so, what class pairs well?
Multi-classing with a Hexblade Warlock can be beneficial, especially with classes like Fighter for additional combat abilities and action economy, or Sorcerer for more spell options and metamagic. When considering multi-classing, ensure that it aligns with your character concept and playstyle.
