Fighter 101: Eldritch Knight in Dungeons & Dragons

[@DnDBeyond]

Preorder Tasha's Cauldron of Everything on D&D Beyond: dndbeyond.link/yttcoewic

[@stormbreaker3027]

Any chance of a revision on the banneret?, or at least a ua frost knight an possibly an ice bound sorcerer?

[@ezralayton6819]

instaBlaster...

[@maxx8362]

My favorite thing to do with and #1 ask for an eldritch knight is to change the limited spell schools from abjuration and evocation to abjuration and transmutation. As a fighter, I don't want to attack with my spells. I want my spells to make me a more dangerous fighter. Just think about what transmutation gives you: catapult, feather fall, jump, longstrider, expeditious retreat, magic weapon, dark vision, spider climb, dragon breath, enlarge/reduce, blink, fly, haste, slow, water breathing, and polymorph. I know most of these spells (but not all) require concentration, but just one of these can transform a fight.

[@fasturianicildentirf5588]

My issue with the evocation school is that it doesn't synergize quite so well. A subclass that allowed other school selection would be nice, would a variant that allowed you to replace evocation be too good or step on toes?

[@thebrbninja]

I totally agree. I've been playing an EK where my DM allowed me to do this and I really enjoy the synergy transmutation offers with being a fighter..

[@tiredjediknight3110]

Yesssssss

[@saintpoli6800]

@@thebrbninja Exactly what I was looking at, all of those movement spells are amazing for a fighter. Adding potentially 10 or double speed is scary

[@Troommate]

I would Like a Shield for my Shield just in case they get past my shield.

[@jonathanhernandez4976]

Two levels in paladin you get shield of faith in case they past your other shield

[@Katastra_]

A Shield of Shielding, when facing a particularly fearsome foe you can use your reaction to cast the Shield spell if you have this shield donned. You can do this once per long rest.

[@itzplant3196]

​@@Katastra_ Defender sword for a hand shield. +3 bonus to AC

[@Katastra_]

@@itzplant3196 so assuming you use it fully for defence every turn, that is +3 AC after you take your first turn in a combat. While this hypothetical Shield of Shielding is +2 all the time and +7 for a one round if you use your reaction to activate it.

[@itzplant3196]

@@Katastra_ now I just gotta ask a DM if he could put in a Defender Longsword & a Shield of Shielding lol

[@CleverPsuedonym1]

18:00 when Todd talks about a potential book about DMing for each class/subclass, it reminds me of why warlock is one of the most instantly compelling classes, because the relationship between warlock and patron, especially in its classic sinister form, paints a picture of what the DM needs to do very quickly. This patron will want something from the warlock. The DM needs to provide a difficult but satisfying way to placate the patron, or... a difficult but satisfying path to freedom from the patron, and then an alternative source of power with which the warlock has fewer scruples. So good.

[@GeargusArchfiend]

"Elven Acuracy doesn't work with greatswords." *Laughs in Hexblade*

[@MjTaboret]

You know that this hexblade feature does not work with heavy weapons, right?

[@GeargusArchfiend]

@@MjTaboret "The influence of your patron also allows you to mystically channel your will through a particular weapon. Whenever you finish a long rest, you can touch one weapon that you are proficient with and that lacks the two-handed property. When you attack with that weapon, you can use your Charisma modifier, instead of Strength or Dexterity, for the attack and damage rolls. This benefit lasts until you finish a long rest. "If you later gain the Pact of the Blade feature, this benefit extends to every pact weapon you conjure with that feature, no matter the weapon's type."

[@killcat1971]

@@MjTaboret It does if you go Blade Pact.

[@fofolacosa123]

@@killcat1971 who doest go blade pact with hexblade?

[@killcat1971]

@@fofolacosa123 It IS possible, depending on your multiclassing plans, for example you might go Tome if you're going Hexadin, since you'll get the second attack anyway.

[@binolombardi]

Elven accuracy isn’t quite limited to ranged and finesse weapons, but attacks using certain stats. An elven battle smith with a magical greatsword may benefit from elven accuracy with a greatsword since they are using intelligence to make that attack roll.

[@binolombardi]

Arcane trickster and an Eldritch Knight duo working together. Gonna be a remake of 21 jump street about infiltrating a magic school. The sale of illegal potions is going on I suppose...

[@matthewchapuis4990]

I’m a 15th lvl Eldritch knight in our 5 year campaign. And I have misty step and thunder step. Charger and shield master with a 21 AC. I cast blur on myself and jump around and tank a lot. It’s fun.

[@zero11010]

I wish that when talking about war caster you mentioned that this feat is required to cast spells with somatic components (nearly all of them) while using a sword and shield.

[@vntHrzn]

Yup. I had the same reaction.

[@Tolandstife]

Ya... like the spell Shield.

[@ericpeterson8732]

But you can tell these guys are more greatsword THF types.

[@frogmad13]

My first character in d&d was 5e eldritch knight!

[@maxx8362]

So was mine!

[@TheCzarsoham]

So is mine! A Dragonborn Eldritch Knight.

[@jeffreycrowder2866]

I am currently in my first campaign and I play a Firbolg E. Knight Amazing rp opportunity

[@MrCmarrero12]

Eldritch Knight Squad!

[@MediumDon]

Same! I still play him. He's a goliath reflavored to be a sentient flesh golem

[@gregkun1]

I kinda wished that the EK had their own set of particular magic spells. Only related to them that take only a bonus action cast as a follow up to their melee attacks and maybe good offensive and defensive concentration spells.

[@thered1s276]

That's just a paladin my guy

[@leohale6449]

Fire Bolt is a great cantrip but Fire is the most resisted element. Instead use Chill Touch, same range, slightly less Nacrotic damage, but they also can not heal until after the end of your next turn. Much better outcome for a warrior in battle.

[@gmradio2436]

The incantation is "cis, gnihT". -Addams book of spells.

[@Shadow1The]

Dragons breathe, Warcaster, Eldritch Knight. These are what made me love a character i had for a while, and to me is the peak bits to supplement the class the most

[@moquips]

The Shield spell lasts until the start of your next turn, not just the turn it was cast. It could last most of the round depending on where in the initiative the wizard cast the spell...

[@Gideon-STC]

Running a group through Dragon of Icespire Peak. They just hit level 3 and I used the entire session to roleplay and have them actually roll pass/fail rolls to gain their new abilities and know how to use them. They had to make three successful rolls to learn the new abilities. It was a really fun session and the group loved the story aspect of how they can now do the things they do.

[@dahobdahob]

Played Eldrich Knight/Warmage up to 8th/10th and it cannot be understated how good even one level of Wizard is for an Eldrich Knight. You get more cantrips, ritual magic and all your 1st level spell slots can go against either your EK spells or your wizard memorized ones. Taking Wizard to 3rd is pretty good because of all the rituals and utility spells available at spell level 2.

[@kevinwilson4238]

Blade Ward might finally work here with a War Magic attack

[@JohannesJ7539]

My favorite 5e character was a dex based human variant eldritch knight. He was fun to play and very versitle.

[@Delveintohobby]

Just being able to cast Shield as a fighter is invaluable

[@falionna3587]

A good feat to take is Magic Initiate, one more shield per day, aswell as increase your cantrips. Martial Adept allows for some neat martial tricks, for either flavoring the martial side or for synergy with the magic side. I'm playing a half elf mark of storm eldritch knight. I'm playing that character as a swashbuckler with storm magic. Having Riposte and Disarm from Martial Adept, as well as defensive duelist feat for a parry, might not be the most optional with lightning bolt and storm sphere when I get the level for them, but it is a fun combination of things.

[@jand.4737]

The eldritch Knight could also be a type of Witchhunter, like you just touched upon, and choose spells specifically for that purpose. use a Wildcard spell for counter spell and one for magic missile. Magic missile against the enemy's concentration and Who expects that Fighter to suddenly counterspell?

[@blindoutlaw]

Mate that’s actually 100% the character I made. Such a good idea

[@jasonhenry8067]

You don’t need a wild card for a Counter-spell, it’s in their spell list

[@RedFangMoon]

Eldritch knight jock and Arcane Trickster edge lord. Oh you mean Thor and Loki

[@RedFangMoon]

@Jerry Dove I guess. Thor multiclasses

[@matthewjennings7645]

"Leave the room exactly as it was" *destroyed room & rug all around* ... Caleb did nothing wrong

[@jf649]

For races I like the idea of flavouring the Eldritch Knights magic coming from gemstones as in Salvatores books. In that case Goliath and Dwarf make up great EK. Imagine a Goliath with spells like... shocking grasp, booming blade, thunderwave, absorb elements, blur...

[@kierranhorsfield3687]

With the War Caster Feat you can use Booming Blade as an opportunity attack, keeping the cantrip very relevant.

[@kierranhorsfield3687]

Oh they actually mentioned this point. Brilliant.

[@paulh3892]

Eldritch Knights are so cool! I love a martial character that is a capable warrior and arcanist. I recommend this class to players looking for more depth to playing a fighter. It’s such a cool subclass that just works!

[@t.h.mcelroy6597]

*Read the comments* 4:41, I can't but disagree with them here. Green-Flame Blade and Booming Blade really don't add to the Eldritch Knight's kit (nor any extra attack based Character), they will almost always be better off using their fill attacks in place of these Cantrips. Where I have found them to shine is when they are paired with Rogues, Bards and Clerics. Classes that have a common presence on the front lines but lack the ability to attack more than once per turn. Unfortunately, for these classes, getting those two Cantrips requires taking the Magic Initiate feat or giving up valuable resources like Magical Secrets or focusing specific subclasses such as Arcane Trickster and the Arcane Domain Cleric. I'm very glad these Cantrips exist, and I enjoy them a great deal mechanically! However, I do think they could be more widespread for classes that could put them to better use. Bards having Booming Blade makes total sense thematically to me, as they tend to be sound themed casters.

[@Anegor]

i disagree with you. The blade cantrips are flat out better for EK at lvl3-4, 7-10, 17-19. And for the rest levels, they are still better if their extra effect procs. So it's still a valuable option to have in the right situations, and overally, extremely nice.

[@t.h.mcelroy6597]

To preface, I should have been clearer. They don't add *much" to their kit. They definitely have their uses, but given how few Cantrips they have access to I'd argue that there are much better Cantrips to choose from (for both mechanical and roleplay purposes). Especially for Eldritch Knight. As for levels: 3-4, yes, unless you are a dual-wielder, but 5th level and on, they typically aren't as good as making multiple attacks with your added physical stat as guaranteed damage. Having the option for elemental damage can be helpful, but I'd argue that taking fire bolt or one of the other ranged damage cantrips is better in most scenarios. You say 7-10 & 17-19? Why for? At that point you definitely would do better with the multitude of extra attacks, especially given that you would almost certainly have magic gear that would likely improve your attacks. Not to mention your leveled spells 😆 Going back to the blade cantrip's usefulness, Green-Flame Blade isn't bad for attacking a group, but typically you'd get the same (if not more) out of it if you just attacked normally and spread out your attacks. Booming Blade is a useful tool for locking enemies into place while you are the tank, but the major trade off is that you are giving up immediate damage for roughly the same amount of damage later, and based on the crucial condition that the target moves of their own accord on their next turn. Good, but still not as good as simply taking your full attacks. Finally, on the subject of damage types, if you're taking either of the blade cantrips simply to have damage options, then taking one of the ranged damage cantrips will usually suit your needs better for the following reasons: •They deal full damage of that type (as opposed to partial physical as with the blades). •They give you a solid ranged option that scales as you level. •There are a wider variety of damage types with the ranged damage cantrips. The downside is that you have disadvantage on ranged attacks while in melee, which adds to your argument, but you can combo ranged weapon attacks and ranged Cantrips with the War Magic and Improved War Magic abilities, giving them even more uses and flavor. This all comes back to my afore mentioned point: the blade cantrips would add a much vaunted empowerment to the weapon combat capabilities of those classes that could benefit more from them (Bards, Rogues, Clerics, etc...). I wish that they were more accessible for those classes, but fortunately there are ways of getting them, even if they are costly/specific. Ultimately, it's player's choice, of course 😁 If you are taking them for their niche usage or - better yet - for their unique flavor, then more power to you! But I don't see them as a "necessary pick" for Eldritch Knight, which James implied. What's more, I see them as better spent on those classes that can put them to more consistent use. Thankfully Wizard and Sorcerer have them!

[@Anegor]

@@t.h.mcelroy6597 lvl7 you get warmagic. Ill assume booming blade for this discussion. So two attacks, assuming a magical weapon, is around 2d8+10 or so. With booming blade(2d8+5)+1 bonus action attack(1d8+5), you get a total 3d8+10. A flat out damage increase. If the effect procs, that's an additional 2d8 for a 5d8+10. It blows two attacks out of the water. You probably forgot that the blade cantrips let you do a normal attack as part of their spell. At lvl11, three attacks, assuming a +2 weapon, is 3d8+21. Booming blade is 3d8+7, and bonus action 1d8+7, for a total of 4d8+14. That is, indeed, less damage, by an average of 3. BUT. if it PROCS, then that is 3d8 extra damage, which makes it blow the extra attacks out. So you're giving up 3 damage to lock down your enemy, or they take an average of 14 extra. Not bad. At lvl17, booming blade combo upgrades to 5d8+16 on impact(assuming +3 weapon), which is equal if not slightly better than 3d8+24. And then if it procs, thats an extra 4d8. A flat out increase overall. The same goes for green flame blade, the condition change Is to have some intelligence, and to fight two enemies next to each other, making it 100% a damage increase FOR ALL LEVELS when fighting 2+ opponents close to each other. Math doesn't lie. The blade cantrips are amazing for EK. The exceptions are: 1.having a flametongue or otherwise extra damage weapon. 2. Scimitar of speed. 3. Using 2-handed weapon. If you want to go physical dps, you probably shouldn't be picking eldritch knight, a class focused around magical defenses, to be honest.

[@t.h.mcelroy6597]

That's fair! Especially for levels 7-10. I hadn't thought that through. One final thought! From 17 and on, I'd argue that they aren't "better", but are definitely a good option. As enticing as +3d8 immediate damage + 4d8 if they move is, you're taking a decent risk, as you are dependant on them moving for the majority of that extra damage, and you have one less attack in the turn to hit. While that may seem minimal, as you say, the math doesn't lie. More attacks increases your consistency and potential damage output (especially if you have magic weapons, which you almost certainly will at that point, and it doesn't combo as well with dual wielding, not that that's the biggest deal). That said, you've swayed me. I'll definitely give them another try next time I play an eldritch knight! My favorite use of Booming Blade so far was with a Bard character of mine that had the Mobile and Magic Initiate Feat. He was all about hit and run and control spells. Very entertaining.

[@Anegor]

@@t.h.mcelroy6597 i actually agree with you on that, it is certainly more single loaded than 3 attacks. It does have a risk... It's just the power of option that eldritch knight is all about imo! Even if you feel booming blade is too risky, green flame blade will be always be awesome for that sweet aoe c: Cheers man, hope you'll have fun! And never forget to put a shield on your shield!

[@arleccino1313]

My most potent and effective character in 5E, played to lvl 20 in Adventurer's League is a Ranged Eldritch Knight. 11 lvls Eldritch Knight and 9 levels of Divination Wizard. I always tell people that a Ranged Eldritch Knight is a real powerful method to apply what Eldritch Knight does.

[@shanewilliams9477]

At 31:24 - unfortunately Eldritch Strike doesn't work with Shocking Grasp because it requires a weapon attack, and Shocking Grasp is a melee spell attack. The only cantrips that work are those with attacks embedded, such as Booming Blade. This severely limits the style and flavour of Eldritch Knight, which is my chief complaint about it. For my own experience, I really enjoyed playing Booming Blade with Mobile and War Caster - being able to charge in to battle, lick your enemies with thunderous energy and move on so that there's no other target gives them a real conundrum over whether they give chase and take the extra damage (which is necessary for Booming Blade to outpace Extra Attack's damage from the bonus attack, depending on your level). Plus Booming Blade as a reaction really gives your foes a reason to take the disengage action or think twice before retreating, just be careful that this prevents you from using the Shield spell if you're in too deep. If I were to DM a player with this subclass, I would relax the restrictions on the schools of magic and embellish Eldritch Strike so that melee spell attacks grant advantage on your next weapon attack until the end of your next turn. I feel that this helps to give the Eldritch Knight a bit more flexibility for the in-combat options, rather than having a standard 1-2 combo that you'll probably fit into after a couple of fights.

[@xxcobencxx]

I’m playing a ek right now in a campaign, I use my spells for defense and utility. It’s been very fun to basically be a fighter that can help out the party outside of combat too!

[@roninvince]

Wouldn't the war caster feat effectively be a must for an eldritch knight if they are using a shield? Or can eldritch knights cast spells with shields without issues without the feat? War caster was kind of brushed off but it seems like it's basically the most important feat to have for an eldritch knight.

[@neversparky]

Depends how particular your DM is about that spellcasting rule. Since they were so much more focused on the flavor than actual mechanics (About half of the spellcasting section was spent talking about items that don't interact with their features for instance), it makes sense they wouldn't really talk too much about the technicality side of things. Also, it isn't as necessary on fighters with two-handed weapons since you could always take your hand off your greatsword for a brief moment to cast a spell

[@duffman2625]

War Caster combos really well with Eldritch Strike if you take Hold Person as one of your out-of-school spells. An enemy tries to leave, and you cast Hold Person on them, and they make their save at disadvantage if you hit them on your last turn. It's even better than Sentinel in some ways, because then you auto-crit that enemy until they succeed their save again (and depending on DM interpretation, they make each new save at disadvantage each time you hit them again).

[@noelmock]

My favorite mid-level combo (from 7th lvl) is to use blade ward, then attack with your bonus action. It becomes a bigger trade-off once your Extra Attack improves at 11th level.

[@chrism6315]

Doesn't that just reduce your damage like crazy though? I get in certain circumstances its good, but in general you're going to be sevearly limiting yourself doing that.

[@RatzahHarvex]

around 29:00 you mention true strike. The wording of True Strike makes it so it doesnt work on the same turn. "On your next turn, you gain advantage.."

[@talonblack8250]

green flame blade and booming blade should be a bonus action

[@israfel070]

I have an Eldritch Knight currently acquiring Wings of Flying which will be badass. Also have my eyes on a Headband of Intellect and a Ring of Spell Storing. This is my primary D&D character and I LOVE being an Eldritch Knight.

[@theblindbuildergrandminuti5648]

Eldritch knight with with a minor in war wizard feels pretty good, also one of the best ways to legitimately use tensors transformation or Tasha’s otherworldly guise.

[@talongreenlee7704]

You might not be able to use Vampiric Touch four times a round, but you can get three if you quicken it, action surge, and use both your actions to attack as well. I really like the idea of an eldritch knight/arcane trickster multiclass that attacks with shadow blade and firebolt every turn using war magic and getting your sneak attack on your shadow blade attack as well. Taking the UA close quarters shooter fighting style to ignore disadvantage on firebolt as well makes everything just sing.

[@TrueJunebug]

When talking about the potential of Warcaster for opportunity attacks I'm surprised you didn't mention Booming Blade. You get an attack on the target as you would with a regular opportunity attack, but you also get a soft Sentinel like effect, where now the creature has to decide whether or not they want to keep moving and take the additional thunder damage, or keep standing next to you. It's basically a soft Sentinel feat where it doesn't necessarily lock the enemy down, but you will at least be getting a very nice bonus to damage out of it.

[@eainjones9509]

I do have a question about one feature for the Eldritch Knight. I'm assuming Eldritch strike does not work on spells that the opponent has to make multiple saves against, except for the initial save, such as hold person. If I make a melee attack on one turn, then the next turn I cast hold person (They obviously have disadvantage on that) and action surge for more melee attacks, next turn they won't have disadvantage on the save against hold person, correct?

[@PhthaloGreenskin]

The EK in the thumbnail looks like Onion Knights illegitimate brother.

[@chimmychonga4795]

L0r3l0rd2401 big boi

[@MrDegan2]

War caster is basically mandatory for Eldritch knight, unless you are really focusing on not having a weapon or shield in your other hand you're limiting you're already tiny spell pool to not include anything with a Somatic component

[@andremedaglia350]

Mobile Feat at 4th level adds so much to a EK with Booming Blade. With +10ft speed, you can get close, attack, back away (without triggering opportunity attacks), waits until the enemy chases you... BOOM!

[@robertbeach71]

in Adventurers League, purchasing scrolls as a downtime activity gives all kinds of flexibility. Find familiar plus dragon breath (on a scroll), for example....

[@chopcooey]

in terms of damage, in the higher levels, shadow blade shits on pretty much everything else; shadow blade with extra attack outscales BB/GFB + bonus action attack when you reach 3 attacks extra attacks, and leaves your bonus action open. But can still be used along with BB/GFB, in earlier levels or for reactions with warcaster. a +3/+3 magic greatsword with haste will catch-up in damage after a few rounds but loses initially due to requiring an action to cast haste vs. bonus action for shadow blade where you can already use your extra attack on the turn you do it. And suffers the consequences of a fail haste concentration check. And shadow blade gives you advantage in dim light or darkness. And leaves you a hand for wielding a shield. And it has thrown property. shadow blade all the way.

[@elliotbryant3459]

@6:48 and you know a somewhat paltry 3 first level wizard spells. 👀 - Sorcerers with 4 spells known.

[@Whatshisdude]

I am really confused with the "wildcard spell choice" I have not seen that in any of the writeups anywhere. Where is this coming from?

[@binolombardi]

I believe per the DMG that with proficiency in arcana any character may invest time and mo way to make spell scrolls. Because of this if an Eldritch Knight has arcana proficiency they can have some 1st and second level scrolls that they’ve made themselves to use in emergencies. A few scrolls of shield, absorb elements, protection from good and evil, or perhaps eventually shadowblade may go quite far in increasing how long the Knight stays effective throughout the day.

[@ridgecabernet1933]

I always do a 2 level dip into war magic wizard with my EK. So much benefit.

[@zero11010]

You have a lot of fear about the negative effects when haste ends. That first level shield spell cast as a reaction is still possible to defend yourself at this point. The negative effects don’t give you status effects like advantage for attackers. It just prevents actions. If you have the first level spell slot available granting you +5 to your AC lasts until your next turn.

[@petbird19]

SO HELPFUL.

[@TrueJunebug]

When talking about Bladesingers: "... but eventually I'm wondering why I'm not just, you know, Finger of Death-ing you." That's fair, but consider Power Word Kill: The word is stab.

[@perrymeril]

Remember that the eldrich knight is based off of rote memorization, drills, physical prowess, and the honing of their bodies to mix the magic into the fighters style. This is him/her as much as the sword is. S/He its strong smart and disciplined. Which is probably why elves are the go to for a good EK

[@jamesshuttlesworth]

I bet a stout halfling dex based EK with the Lucky feat could be really fun. 😁

[@krystalholbrook6682]

I'm just a campaign in Tyranny of Dragons as an eldritch knight half moon elf and half wood elf. This character is going to be so much fun. I would like your suggestions for spells that I should use as I level up.

[@shadowolfnara4749]

Didn't think of adding scrolls and will now this is a good idea

[@jon-roberthunter7181]

War Caster and Sentinel makes a great combo if you need to keep someone engaged as an Eldritch Knight Fighter.

[@johncmousley]

best subclass, I never get tired of playing an eldritch knight; just sometimes I multiclass with wizard

[@zero11010]

At what point do you multiclass wizard? Early and it slows you down with feats/attributes and multi-attack. Late and a handful of first level spells are less useful unless you’re taking the types of spells that you can get through feats anyway. It feels like the feats Ritual Caster and Magic Initiate are the easiest ways to bring in more magic. With Magic Initiate you’re not even limited to Wizard spells.

[@johncmousley]

@@zero11010 Usually I switch at lvl7 and then go pure wizard afterwards, by that point you are strong enough in combat that few weak spell levels won't usually kill you

[@zero11010]

@@johncmousley Interesting. I've been playing D&D since the 90's. I can count the number of characters I've had get past level 10 on one hand and never had one get past level 15. I'm curious about what kind of strength/dexterity and constitution you need to keep melee feasible and what kind of intelligence you need to make the spell casting useful (spells known, chance to hit, DC). So, at level 8 you miss out on a feat or attribute modifier and a known spell from any school of magic. That sounds painful. You're gaining some known spells and ritual casting. Your spell slots per level are garbage though. You have 2+wizard level in spell slots with the chart on page 165. So, your wizard spell slots at level 1 are fed by the same 4 first level slots and 2 second level slots you had as an Eldritch Knight, and you can only learn first level wizard spells with the multiclass with roughly 3-4 prepared spells. At level 9 you miss out on a reroll for a saving throw once per day (that can be a thing that swings a battle). You're trading that for a specialization in a magic school. That could be risky (the ward for abjuration at this level isn't as useful as just having more hit points from a larger hit point die). You're also gaining one second level spell slot (a level ahead of a pure eldritch knight). At 10 you're losing Eldritch Strike to give disadvantage to one of your spells and a known spell and a cantrip. You gain 2 third level spell slots. This has the potential to be huge. At level 11 you're missing out on an extra attack with your attack action, and two attacks during an action when you take your action surge (that's painful). You're gaining a feat/ability score improvement and a third level spell slot. Your cantrips get better at this level, but that's mechanically worse than using weapon attacks. The end result of that comparison has a player with 10 fewer hit points total (assuming average gained per level). 3 third level spell slots, and one fewer first level spell slot. Three additional cantrips. One fewer attack per attack action. Firebolt avg damage is 16.5 though realistically less likely to hit due to lower INT. Each melee attack (assuming a meager 1D8 weapon with dueling fighting style and 18/19 STR) would be 10.5 avg damage. With two swings that's better with 21 avg (potential) plus more hits. With three swings thats 31.5 avg (potential) plus more hits due to better accuracy compared to 16.5 from firebolt which realistically isn't being made with an 18/19 INT for accuracy. Fireball, counterspell, haste, and major image are all amazing examples of usages for those two 3rd level spell slots but your DC may be weak. That's really what you're gaining at this point. You're trading it for more steady damage per turn, increased hit points, spell mitigation (reroll failed save), and more regained health from second wind. It's solid at level 11. At level 8 and 9 you'd be weaker than a pure Eldritch Knight. At level 11 you're trading a considerable amount of fighting prowess for a couple of spell slots. It would be critical to use those 3rd level spell slots each and every day to great effect, otherwise, the steady ability of a pure Eldritch Knight would be mechanically stronger. And as far as role playing goes you can pretty much do all of the same things either way.

[@johncmousley]

@@zero11010 Jesus Christ, if you don't like it say so from the start

[@zero11010]

@@johncmousley an opinion is useless without something to back it up. That’s my opinion with reasoning. At almost any given level in a campaign that starts at first level pure Eldritch Fighter is better in most ways. It’s like the difference between criticism and constructive criticism.

[@Jvstm]

I play an EK multiclass who dual wields throwing axes myself. EK 7, Ranger 4, Scout Rogue 3 currently.

[@joshuaowens2418]

The tiefling on the thumbnail is a thicc boi

[@sanctissimus1]

Damn do I miss these Todd talks with James. 😔

[@jasonhenry8067]

What happened?

[@femthingevelyn]

im currently playing a fire genasi eldritch knight and its pretty fun

[@knightghaleon]

Once your EK gets second level slots, shadow blade is the only attack spell you’ll need

[@robertbeach71]

Once you can take an illusion spell...

[@Anegor]

Only Shadow Blade

[@Caonabo]

I feel like a eldritch knight multiclassing into order of scribes has opportunity. Or even a war magic wizard, while making sure you take counter spell and dispel magic. Make sure to take war caster. If you wana get more flavorful, make it an elf (high), take revenant blade feature, and defensive duelist as well, and instead of war magic wizard you can go Ranger, hunter conclave (if you wish fot more melee than magic casting).

[@killcat1971]

The major problem with the EK is that the spells they get access to aren't the best for "supporting what they already do" , that would be alteration, in reality they need their own spell selection with all the combat augments.

[@killcat1971]

@Jerry Dove Sure but there are many that are not, Haste, Shadow Blade, Misty Step, Mirror Image, those are spells that play into the "Spell Sword" archetype, but are difficult to get.

[@killcat1971]

@Jerry Dove By level 20, not much of an improvement, but I agree with you on the Blade Singer. But a true half caster would be better.

[@killcat1971]

@Jerry Dove See that's what I mean by the "wrong spells" self enhancement, for me, is things like Haste, Enlarge, Flight, Stone Skin, not Fireball, but that's just a flavor thing I suppose.

[@killcat1971]

@Jerry Dove Almost, it's very close, but the focus on, well artifice, takes away from the combat focus. Think more arcane Paladin/Ranger, d10 hit die, combat style at level 2 along with Arcane Smite, steal the weapon bond from EK at level 3, the "swap an attack for a Cantrip" from Blade Singer at level 6, give them bonus spells that fit, like the various Smites.

[@fatcoyote2]

If you have Haste on you, and you utilize your action to cast a spell, Haste says you have an additional action which must be an "Attack (one weapon attack only), Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object," so can you then smack the enemy you're next to? Say hit them with Booming Blade then just hit them again regular?

[@wardenkingromtorson841]

I like Eldritch Knight because I pair it with Rogue (Arcane Trickster, personal preference) and when you get 7th with EK you can literally cast true strike, bonus action weapon attack, and sneak attack if you hit.... also works with trickery domain cleric and rogue when you invoke duplicity

[@zorn3255]

Unfortunately, True Strike only applies to an attack on your next turn, not the current turn (read the spell), and it requires your concentration until then. True Strike is garbage even for a EK; you are better taking 2 separate attacks (the second one this turn and the first one next turn) rather than giving up the second attack this turn (and using your concentration) to get advantage on the first attack next turn, as with two separate attacks there is a chance you can hit twice (not to mention all the things that could happen to you before your next turn: your concentration could be interrupted, the target could die, you could be incapacitated, etc.).

[@wardenkingromtorson841]

@@zorn3255 darn, you're right, oh well guess I'll just fall back on the combo of archfey warlock & scout rogue with faerie fire spell to give myself sneak attack bonus

[@shadowolfnara4749]

I have a dragonborn that multiclassed into wizard after getting to eldritch knight and I'm loving it

[@nazull829]

Is there a good Binder to use as a DM, i have been looking for a good looking DND Binder to store more campaign in but all i find is just stuff i can get at work.. i want somthign a bit more then that. UK based if poss if anyone know of a good player for that and maps . i make my own but Iam not that good at it. still fun to make.

[@marc0s158]

I think "therookandtheraven" sells stuff like that. Might be worth a look

[@vincentabramo7175]

I am actually playing a EK halfling PC right now and the owl familiar (Zelda) has been so helpful so far. Currently still level 4 but I want to see how far I can take him.

[@alistairclough674]

What spells would be great for an Eldritch Knight that never see play on a regular Wizard?

[@JadeFalcon07]

OMG! Metamagic Adept cast quickened Haste, get two full attack actions, action surge, and go around for another!

[@Unholydragoon]

if a party member hastes the eldritch knight, then the eldritch knight could get 3 vampiric touch attacks in one round with quicken.

[@Johnny0Masters]

How does that work? Afaik vt is a melee spell attack, It doesnt configure for extra attack nor the extra 1 attack from haste, which is weapon attack only, that's why It upscales with spell level. I suppose you can Quick or twin it (with MC) for one round but is It worth It?

[@EAtheatreguy]

If your level 3 spells aren't shield, absorb elements, and find familiar...what are they? I'm curious.

[@balluhouston4385]

My first long-term character is a Ranged Warforged Eldritch Knight names Aegis

[@adamkaris]

Also true strike doesn't apply to an attack until your next turn not the next attack you make

[@devildog1989]

With bladesinger being rewritten to allow for an attack cantrip and your extra attack are you guys looking to extend that ability to Eldritch Knights? If not, why?

[@kierranhorsfield3687]

How can we talk about recommended races for eldritch knight without mentioning Githyanki?

[@i8u2manytimes]

I'm sad they are nerfing booming blade in the new book. How it is written in tasha's cauldron because it is being changed to a cast target of self, you will not be able to use it with war caster's reaction attack, I believe you also can't cast green flame blade with that as it damages more than one target

[@Anegor]

Yea thats one painful nerf :< they want to nerf it for bladesinger but hits the EKs even harder tbh

[@i8u2manytimes]

@@Anegor I only have 1 character right now that doesn't use booming blade. I currently am playing a palisorc for booming blade smites, refreshed spell slots for more smites and quickened spell for pseudo booming blade extra attacks and I'm also playing a hexblade sorlock who uses a greatsword with booming blade quickened spell

[@exqueue3813]

Have to be specific because so many people get it wrong. Booming blade/GFB do NOT take the attack action.

[@prixal]

Is it possible for them to get eldritch blast without going warlock? I have a player who has done it. I want to know if it really possible.

[@crunch1216]

The magic initiate feat

[@EurekaBe]

Warforged, full plate, + defensive style + integrated Protection + shield... add to that the shield spell? Thats an AC of 27... at lvl 3...

[@fortunatus1]

Yea but it's overkill. Your DM will just start targeting you with save spells. You're much better off going Two Handed weapon and taking Great Weapon Master so that you have a high AC (tho not insane) while doing high levels of damage.

[@adamkaris]

I mean, it's your dm's own fault for giving you full plate by level 3?

[@EurekaBe]

@@fortunatus1 the worst that i got was one of my players in the Avernus Campaign : Hexblade build with 18 AC, a +2 shield (so +4 bonus) and protection from evil and Good... so my patrol of Bearded devils and hell hounds had to hit a 22, with disadvantage, AND -1d6 to their role as the sorceress had hit them with a Synapric Static... and he had shield as a reaction spell, just in case..

[@EurekaBe]

@@adamkaris well, you can get to 1500 GP fairly quickly, if everyone decides to invest in the tank...

[@exqueue3813]

DnD isn't an MMO. All the arrows are gonna perforate your casters while your tank is forced into saving throws. Throwing all your resources into AC on one character isn't a good idea.

[@everwind5691]

Eldritch Knight would be really good if the restriction on spells schools would be removed. There is actually only 1 abjuration spell at 2nd level and evocation spells suck at level 2. You spend most of your character life with level 2 spells. If it wasn't for booming blade or green flame bade they would really suck. If they really wanted it to be supplemental they would allow transmutation as a choice. Also at some levels it is always better to just fight and not even cast a cantrip...

[@dubaimidnite6145]

If the restrictions were transmutation and abjuration the EK would be 100 times better!

[@everwind5691]

@@dubaimidnite6145 In fact I asked my DM to homebrew the EK to just that. Makes him tons more fun and versatile. Getting Fireball so late makes it worthless at the time you get it. There are lots of great 2nd level Transmutation spells. Also things like Featherfall can really help. Since EKS have to learn spells I don't understand why they couldn't cast ritual spells without having to take the feat.

[@Michael-tc5ff]

Bladesinger is my favorite class, and Counterspell helps take down Eldritch Knight! >:D

[@Moribis]

There is one thing I think the Eldritch Knight misses in its spells and that's synergy with the class itself. Throwing magic missiles, booming thunderwaves, and casting shields are nice but they don't really make the Fighter class that much better nor is it actually smart to waste your few spells on 3d4+3 damage when you could deal 2d10+6. I think the Eldritch Knight spell list is best served gaining access to the Transmutation school for a number of reasons that synergize with the Fighter class as a whole (in all it's potentialities) and no I'm not talking about those one or two spells they get to choose another school's spells from. The main part of the Fighter are their weapons and if you're not going to die by going into combat then your goal is to get up there and deal damage. However, throughout the various levels of play you are likely to have situations where that is difficult (large open battle areas) to impossible (monsters are flying and hovering). The Transmutation school solves all those problems for the class. You have expeditious retreat at 1st level that helps you get into the position you want and to the target you want, Longstrider to do the same, Jump to get to difficult places to get to. At 2nd level spells you get access to more things including Enlarge that helps with tanking and dealing damage , Darkvision allows that human fighter to see normally in the dark, Levitate could be useful getting to high places, Spider Climb lets you also scale things, and then you get Magic Weapon which should be an obvious boon to Fighters if they haven't gotten their magic weapon of choice. 3rd level spells is where things get crazy but Eldritch Knights get them at 13th level pretty far down the line. At that point you're fighting legendary monsters, dragons, Dragon Turtles, just about anything and everything. This also means that the fight can go anywhere and having the right spells could mean the difference for the Fighter such as Fly or Water Breathing. 4th level transmuation spells don't have as much synergy for Fighting but there's some good utility in there too. I know what people are thinking about at this point and that's "if you lose concentration while flying you could die!" or something like this regarding concentration. Well, if you fly at a dragon with no plan and a crappy con then you need to rethink your choices. So, Fighters should have good con if they go into melee, they have the con save, warcaster gives you advantage on concentration saves, and if you lose concentration on that Fly spell well the transmutation spell list gives you Feather Fall at level 1! The other thing I'm hearing from the back row is "this sounds OP why would I allow this!?" Well, if its OP and RIGHT THERE next to the spells you're already taking then that's the SMART thing to do for an Intelligence based subclass. I just really think the transmutation spell list serves as an adaptive and synergistic aid that the Fighter base class would want in adventuring life and I will forever push this even in my games.

[@Anegor]

Nah its not op, the free school choices are 99% from the transmution list after all. And you don't have enough spell slots to make it op. I think the reason is the same as to why sorcerers dont get many transmutation spells. Lore reason. They are supposedly very hard spells that take lots of understanding and studying that neither EK nor Sorcerers do. I personally call bs, though xd

[@philipschwender6976]

Didnt know that Boba was stationary with his jetpack. This comparison didnt make any sense. But regardless thanks for the input.

[@snupjeve]

Times of Lore!!

[@Bergreen88]

Why does nobody really talk about how great this subclass can be as an archer??

[@ericpeterson8732]

How so? Magic Weapon at level 8? I often hear about how great EK is at archery, but I don't see it. Not any better than any other fighter.

[@Bergreen88]

@@ericpeterson8732 Being able to teleport to reposition is huge. Even if you're not playing with a DM that gives advantage for high ground. Add to that the ability to use spells to gain cover, and you're basically a fortified machine gun.

[@theonlymatthew.l]

Probably because it seems in most people's opinion the Battlemaster makes a far superior Archer

[@adrenalineunlimited]

Perfect gesh combination is druid-monk-paladin

[@exqueue3813]

You need 13 STR DEX WIS and CHA for that, right? That's a lot of prerequisites.

[@adrenalineunlimited]

@@exqueue3813 ok?

[@Perial51]

What is "perfect" about this combination?

[@zero11010]

Really want to hear about how you readily get the stats to make this playable and how it compares to a solid one class build at level 2, 5, 8, 12.

[@jamesonstalanthasyu]

Fire your fireballs from our crossbow, kinda like Hank from the D&D cartoon.

[@lakeside1168]

I like to think they are fighters first and casters third (since the they are 1/3 casters) lol Ek with a glaive and sentinel pole arm master and lightning lure as one of your cantrips with booming blade, is a menace. The amount of control you have, to steal movement speed from someone actively on your turn, while making it so you can not get hit, while you have shield and absorb elements is insane. With the defense and offensive utility you can select it makes EK a problem in any fight. You can't die and they literally can not walk away or hit you because of your reach. EK is probably the most defensive class I can think of and this allows you to shove your fighter aspects really hard. WHY ARE YOU RUNNING *laughs in haste*

[@PTLANS]

"I like limitations" ... I'm fine with this so long as limitations doesn't include limitations on options. Not everything needs to be a built in class feature but I'd rather create a character of my imagining not pick from a skill tree.

[@dandini0698]

When i look at eldritch knight all i thought was why couldnt they made the class half-caster instead of 1/third caster. They get so little spells and get them so late, also why evocation. Literally the worst school in terms of synergy since you cant upcast anything. Illusion, enchantment, transmutation, any one of those schools as second one would've made alot more sense and enhanced the class. At least that way a fighter actually becomes fun to play. Especially when you can cast wall of force/bigby's hand/synaptic/holdmonster & literally any other amazing lvl 5 spells. Thats why i always multi-class them with bladesingers.

[@robertbeach71]

Elvish greatsword: 1d10, 2 handed, finesse property.

[@jamesalgeo9104]

thats literally a longsword

[@robertbeach71]

@@jamesalgeo9104 edited. And no, it isn't

[@ondras5241]

Too strong tho

[@harleycriswell8504]

i want my dm to let me use some of the spells from gravaturgy

[@marcuspacheco3815]

Warcaster is a must! How are you going to do spells without putting your weapons down bro? It's like super essential to the fighter. This should be your 1st. unless your taking a polearm then it's polearm master. And then sentinel. If you're sword and bored obviously skip those entirely do warcaster, shield master, then magic initiate or Battle master. If your an archer 🏹 you want achery feats then warcaster, magic initiate and battle master but take battle master first. So you can like goat someone into attacking you from 120 ft away and all they have is a knife.... Or trip that guy who's duking it out with your buddy... Super handy with the archery

[@davidcdun8896]

One question, did the eldritch Knight get kicked out from the arcane academy, like the arcane trickster? 🤣🤣🤣🤣👍👍

[@mozartdminor]

Nah, stayed for two years on a football scholarship then dropped out to go pro

[@maxx8362]

Nope, he picked up a minor at the fighter's academy.

[@thornelson1411]

Nah they got kicked out together when they both beat up the snob wizards with tricks and brawn

[@chopcooey]

if this were real physics, shocking grasp should actually work less on a target wearing metal armor. the armor provides a current return path to ground that avoids the knight to take the shock. This is very annoying. They should've made this something heat based instead, like a cantrip version of heat metal.

[@theblindbuildergrandminuti5648]

Give me back my stone soul!

[@Cz82]

they keep mentioning college of swords like college of valor doesn't exist 😭😭😭