Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition class
Warlock
Warlock is a class in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: Spellcasters who draw power from a pact with an otherworldly patron.
Last reviewed
Key facts
- Hit Die
- d8
- Primary Ability
- CHA
- Saving Throws
- WIS, CHA
Overview
Warlocks are seekers of the knowledge that lies hidden in the fabric of the multiverse. Through pacts made with mysterious beings of supernatural power, Warlocks unlock magical effects both subtle and spectacular. Unlike other casters, Warlocks regain their spell slots on a short rest. Warlock characters are unique casters with few but frequently refreshing spell slots, powerful at-will abilities through Invocations, and the reliable Eldritch Blast cantrip. The Fiend patron (SRD) grants temporary HP on kills, resistance to a chosen damage type, and eventually the ability to hurl enemies through the lower planes.
How it works
Hit Die: d8 Primary Ability: Charisma Saving Throws: Wisdom, Charisma Pact Magic: Cast using Charisma. Fewer slots than full casters, but ALL slots are the same (highest available) level and recharge on SHORT rest. Eldritch Invocations: Customizable abilities (choose as you level). Popular choices: Agonizing Blast (add CHA to Eldritch Blast), Repelling Blast (push 10 feet), Devil's Sight (see in magical darkness). Pact Boon: At level 3, choose Pact of the Chain (familiar), Pact of the Blade (magical weapon), or Pact of the Tome (extra cantrips). The Fiend (SRD): Dark One's Blessing (temp HP on kill), Dark One's Own Luck (add d10 to check/save), Fiendish Resilience (resistance to chosen damage type), Hurl Through Hell (banish + 10d10 psychic).
Tips and playstyle
Character Concepts: Desperate scholar, ambitious noble, cursed peasant, reluctant pawn, occult detective, power seeker. Playstyle: Eldritch Blast + Agonizing Blast is your reliable damage every turn. Use your few spell slots for impactful spells (Hex, Hold Person, Counterspell). Short rest often to recover slots. Invocations customize your playstyle heavily. Synergies: Agonizing Blast + Hex makes Eldritch Blast rival any martial's damage. Pact of the Blade with Thirsting Blade enables melee builds. Darkness + Devil's Sight gives you advantage on all attacks while enemies can't see you.
Frequently asked questions
How does Pact Magic differ from normal spellcasting?
Warlocks have fewer slots (1-4 max) but all slots are the highest level available and recharge on SHORT rest, not long rest. This means you cast fewer spells per encounter but you're always casting at full power.
What makes Eldritch Blast so good?
It scales with character level (not class level), fires multiple beams (up to 4), and each beam can benefit from Invocations like Agonizing Blast (+CHA damage per beam) and Repelling Blast (+10 feet push per beam). It's the best cantrip in the game for consistent damage.