Matt Mercer's Blood Hunter Class - Dungeons and Dragons

[@C1M1E7R]

@TitanBearGaming How do you read Supernal Surge? The ability is from Ghostslayer makes the user SPECTRAL until their next turn (unless they chose to dispel it). Being Spectral, you are granted some movement bonuses, but it doesn't mention anything about being resistant/susceptible to certain kinds of attacks. I read it as enemies have disadvantage on physical damage rolls against me until my next turn, but magic attacks roll normally. But I haven't found anything in any source book about the Spectral/Ethereal/Ghostly condition and how it functions in combat.

[@TitanGamingTV]

This is a really great question, Rossano. I wonder if Matt Mercer didn't intend there to be any additional effects from turning Spectral (I'm guessing he would've been explicit in the text), but it CERTAINLY begs the question of if it does. Since 5e pulls away from templates, I'd go based on a surmising of ethereal/spectral type creatures, which all seem to share the following. Resistance to non-magical b/s/p weapons damage, and resistance to acid/cold/fire/lightning/thunder damage. Immunity to poison, and immunity to the physical conditions exhaustion, grappled, paralyzed, petrified, poisoned, prone, restrained. I wouldn't sweat the chance to hit on attacks (since the 5e monster manual doesnt go this direction with spectral/ethereal monsters). Hit me with thoughts!

[@C1M1E7R]

That's the conclusion the discord Dungeons and Flagons community arrived at. Unless I were already under the effects of Exhaustion or Poison before activating supernal surge (something impossible with the rest of those effects), then resistances were definitely something we agree that the player would have. However, we were also debating whether there it would affect chance to hit or whether that would overtune the class. The movement and the resistances are already spectacular, so maybe adding disadvantage to attacks against you might seem a bit OP. Probably why Matt Mercer made the ability intentionally ambiguous as a way to let the DM play it as they wish versus telling them what they have to do.

[@claduke]

Monster Hunter party: Blood Hunter (Witcher) Monster Slayer Ranger (Van Helsing) Divination Wizard (John Constantine) Gunslinger (Sam/Dean Winchester or Hellboy, depending on the race) Vengeance Paladin (Any Bellmont)

[@harrietr.5073]

now your fucked if your fighting these guys.

[@harrietr.5073]

your next, Lich.

[@notorious.scoundrel]

I actually played a ghost slayer blood hunter as Trevor Bellmont

[@werecoonwarden5659]

I just have to put a few things into perspective here. 1. You only get spells with the Profane Soul Archetype, none of the others. 2. There's actually a 4th Order: Order of the Lycan. 3. Each of the Orders focus on weapons as their main source of damage (minus the Lycan, they focus on claws). Ghostslayer specializes against undead, Profane Soul against more powerful Patrons who misuse their power, Mutagen against the unnatural blights of the world, and Lycan against other lycanthropes. 4. I would personally put this closer to Ranger than Warlock, as only 1 of the Orders has Warlock-like abilities, which uses Warlock spells exactly like they do. Blood Hunters specialize in hunting and fighting a few specific types of creatures, each dependent upon which order they're a part of, as mentioned above. I will say, the class sheet he's reading from is the most updated. Most of it is just minor tweaks, but they change the gameplay entirely for them. For the people who say that this class is OP because of the damage output, I say this: The highest AC you can get without magic items or feats is 17 with a maxed out DEX. Let's say you get that by level 8. Average HP of 66, and lowering your max health by 8 whenever you use Crimson Rite, and lowering your current health any time you amplify a Blood Maledict, you're down to around 50 health before an enemy has even touched you. The damage is amazing, but it comes at a steep price. A warning to those who want to play a dual wielder Blood Hunter: be careful with your Crimson Rites. The max health drain is doubled if you activate both weapons. Meaning, in the same situation above, you've got about 46 health. May not sound like much, but it could mean the difference between life and death.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Great commentary, David! Good points for anyone to be aware of. And you're quite right about the Ranger comparisons, a number of folks have pointed it out since I posted, and I have to say I'm convinced. Welcome to the party sir!

[@doxy2461]

J E R A L T Wat.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Yea yea. Here's a spaidur. MM(-,,-)MM

[@Kef_09]

Not gonna lie, i lost it went he said JERALT

[@solerosable]

Class flavor kind of reminds me of the Grey Wardens from Dragon Age. That’s a good thing!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Really is a good thing. Very rich. Welcome to the party A&M!

[@solerosable]

Titan Bear Gaming thank you for the warm welcome! :)

[@harrietr.5073]

@@solerosable nice.

[@benholeman3537]

Matthew Mercer and everything he creates are gems of the highest order and need to be protected

[@TitanGamingTV]

As is only good and just!

[@iv0rysh0es39]

I've been playing a Order of the Profane Bloodhunter for the past year and a half. Hearing Jaffe's character being described, I swore he copied me haha. We're almost exactly alike, other than mine being royal blue, and having two different colored eyes. The rest, tattoos, ornate horns, dual wield, humor, it's as if we were brothers. Great vid, just discovered you, keep up the work.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Lee, and thanks for sharing. I've long enjoyed Taliesin's characterization of Percy, I'm keen to see what he's doing with Mollymauk. Welcome to the party!

[@thegamemattster]

Profane soul ARCHEFEY is what I think Molly will be. The Peacock screams fey and totally fits taleisin. I think his magic initiate feat warlock on Percy was both for Percy but to early prepare taleisin for Molly. Remember, he had a character ready when Percy died.

[@V3n9eanc3]

Solid quality videos man! Can't wait for this channel to blow up!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks S0LAR! We've seen some awesome community engagement this week with these videos, makes me quite happy :) My inner critter can't even.

[@V3n9eanc3]

Titan Bear Gaming I'm sure that with the new influx of critters coming in through the start of the new campaign this channel is going to see a lot more traffic! Best of luck to you guys

[@chriswoodend2036]

It's a Witcher. The class is a Witcher.

[@TitanGamingTV]

It is that. Write what you know, isn't that what they say? I've never quite been sure who they are, but they sure say a lot. Welcome to the party, Chris!

[@quintoncraig9299]

More like a Hunter from Bloodborne. (no tracking mechanic, but this class doesn't represent tracking these monsters anyway so... it fits.)

[@dumbdickler670]

Quinton Craig I find that it's a combination of both, some orders are more/less of each

[@GrimViridian]

Quinton Craig but they have skills and proficiency on tracking and dealing with the enemy type they pick .-.

[@quintoncraig9299]

+Joshua Howell I mean fluff (flavor text) support. also this -_- is a better emoji for that expression.

[@sebastianadkins7407]

Just made a basic Bloodhunter on DnD Beyond and I'm pumped to play it after watching this!!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Excellent, its so nice that DnD Beyond decided to support the BH for Matt. Welcome to the party Sebastian!

[@joshholmes1372]

Lol I am currently playing a Bloodhunter named Sebastian.

[@p0mander877]

Thanks so much for this overview of Blood Hunter. I've been really interested in trying it out so this helps break it down. It's the only one that I've found that's actually informative rather than trying to be funny by poking at the edginess of it. You really know your stuff. Earned my sub!

[@Zhafchan]

I'm going to play this class soon in my first long campaign, instead of just another one-shot. The GM and I landed on this class after I told her I wanted to combine melee with arcane, we went over pact of the blade warlock, arcane blade, eldritch knight and some others before stumbling onto Blood hunter which immediately caught my attention. We paired it up with the 'Haunted one' background, exchanging the usual 'drank a concoction' with 'bound to a dark entity' for that extra bit of storytelling potential.

[@parkerbrantley4356]

wow!!! small channel but GREAT QUAlITY!!! keep it going

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Parker! Welcome to the party!

[@drlabyrinth377]

Hey there, I was wondering about that lovely sword ability used in the first session of the campaign, and since I'm new, i had no idea that the Blood Hunter existed. Im new to DnD, and your channel seems lovely, thanks for all the information, in depth, clear to understand, and great quality. You gained a fan in me as i listened to this while I washed up. =) Thanks Titan Bear!

[@TitanGamingTV]

You're a gem Dr Labyrinth! Welcome to the party! And welcome to DnD! Come chat me on Twitter if you've got DnD questions, I'm here to help.

[@METALxUPxYOURxASSx]

If you are new to the dnd scene I would also suggest looking at nerdarchy, webDM and nerd immersion on here as well they are some of my favorite channels on KZbin for the hobby. Also @Titanbeargaming nerdarchy has these daily livechats and sometimes have up and coming dnd you tubers on and I am for sure recommending you to them because I think this channel is going to be amazing and deserves a shoutout for sure

[@TitanGamingTV]

Aw what a kind comment David! Nerdarchy is actually one of my very favorite internet groups. You've made my night!

[@METALxUPxYOURxASSx]

Anything to help out the gaming community and spread awareness for awesome creators in the community looking to open the hobby to players

[@drlabyrinth377]

Web dm are really great, and I'll check out nerdarchy too. =) thanks guys!

[@thirion1850]

Bloodborne. Now if only one-handed crossbows were worthwhile, so I could have my evelynn + reiterpallasch.

[@TitanGamingTV]

You do you, Thirion. The damage boost from the Blood Hunter should help go a long way for ye olde hand crossbow.

[@occultnightingale1106]

I actually liked this class so much, not only did I add it to my campaign, I also homebrewed three more subclasses onto it that were inspired by Bloodborne's numerous mechanics and abilities.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Oo nicely done Occult Nightingale! What are the subclasses you wrote? Welcome to the party!

[@zachleming]

Its not just from Witcher it is also similar to Grey Wardens from Dragon age and Hunters from Bloodlines.

[@markbones3386]

its a Emo Ranger

[@TitanGamingTV]

It kind of is, markbones. "No one understands me except the darkness!" In steps Kylo Ren...

[@Awesomeisme7000]

markbones3386 It's a Witcher

[@markbones3386]

Blood cures only works if you black your eyes after you cut yourself

[@berkgokce6694]

markbones3386

[@kelnhide]

It’s basically Hugh Jackman Vanhelsing

[@andromeda6712]

I actually have 2 players in my campaign In dming (first session is actually today!) and they wanted to use this class. It's great to have a bit of information on it, so that I can figure out their limits

[@TitanGamingTV]

Perfect, I'm happy to hear that Andromeda. That's the biggest reason I like doing class/archetype assessments, and will continue to do dmsguild.com material -- to help DMs know how to figure out limits and how to handle them. Welcome to the party!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Also officially welcome to DMing my friend! You let me know either here or on Twitter if I can help you get your feet under you. Consider me at your disposal, mmkay?

[@Seanraus]

Subscribed. I already knew what the class was, but I wanted to see someone else’s point of view on it. You did awesome! I loved the way you described things and really got into it. Awesome. Gained a fan today.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Sean, glad you liked the discussion. Welcome to the party!

[@xMEanimations]

It's a minor thing but studded leather is not an option for starting gear for any class in the PHB, therefore saying it's typical starting gear is quite a stretch.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thats an astute observation, xMEanimations. I wonder if that's an oversight on Mercer's end, since every other light armor proficient class starts with regular leather, and the scale mail is consistent with other medium armor proficient classes. Could be a hold-over from his Pathfinder/3.x days -- I know I regularly say studded leather when I mean regular leather. Welcome to the family, xMEanimations!

[@Strife159Highloch]

I played a dual-wielding build of this class and damn, my damage output was high, but, I was so constantly low on HP it felt fair.

[@TitanGamingTV]

A good number of folks have reported that as a very palpable trade-off in gameplay. I'm always happy to side with something if the players like the way it feels.

[@Archer-1453]

I finished Witcher 3 a few weeks ago and my group’s campaign a few days before that and I REALLY wanted a Witcher character. This is perfect

[@TitanGamingTV]

Boom, great timing. Give it a run, Alex. Let me know how you like it!

[@mikeyjudo]

First time I've seen this channel, subbed immediately. Great stuff.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Mikeyjudo -- welcome to the fam!

[@alamogamerscollective3615]

Great walkthrough of Blood Hunter! I definitely want to try playing this class at some point. And i'm loving all the incoming folks who are joining in for the second season of Critical Role.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks AGC! The viewership numbers for the Season 2 opener were awe inspiring.

[@killcat1971]

One thing from thinking about this class more, I don't think Matt playtested it, or the Cobalt Soul Monk enough. The Bloodhunter does damage equal to their level to activate their weapons extra damage, that's fine at low levels but what about at higher? Take Talisin's character, he has 2weapon fighting, at 4th level to activate both blades that's 8 damage per combat, at 10th that's 20, that's close to 5th of his expected HP. Similar problem with the Monk, all of the abilities use Ki, that means they are seldom going to be used as a Monk is Ki limited, so it reads well, nice and thematic, but will get little use.

[@TitanGamingTV]

I've heard feedback from a number of BH players that they find the HP tradeoff to be a good hard choice -- risky but with high pay-off when they commit to it. Especially on the distinction between a single weapon and two, thats a lot of extra damage output with two activated weapons.

[@killcat1971]

I can see the trade off, but I think it would have been better to have based it off the proficiency bonus, but that might just be me.

[@TitanGamingTV]

You should give it a try at your table Killcat! See how it feels to use a smaller HP penalty -- if the BH is always poppin off, it might justify the extra hp cost.

[@killcat1971]

That's why I suggested playtesting, it's the only way to see if something works in practice, not theory, I was (mentally) comparing it to things like sneak attack, colossus slayer and the improved smiting etc, another option might be running it off short rests, or "You may use this feature "X" times per day. It's similar to what happens with the 4 elements Monk, looks fine on paper but the reality is that Monks have so many things to spend Ki on it's not cost effective.

[@daviddevries9128]

Just found your channel and I am really liking your videos so far! Great job and great shirt :)

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks thanks and thanks David! Welcome to the family!

[@MementoMorrigan]

I’m still waiting for Matt to release The Order of the Literal Blood Hunter, where you become a vampire (This is a joke, though it would be kinda cool to see a werewolf BH and a vampire BH in a party) Edit: Order Of The Bloodstarved would sound way cooler

[@TitanGamingTV]

The name game is strong :)

[@harrietr.5073]

become partly vampire. get some vampire powers and some vampire weaknesses. sunlight makes you weak and garlic is poisonous.

[@Cryzes]

I like this type of channel. I think your review on this is on the spot, please continue to review the best products on DM Guild

[@TitanGamingTV]

Will do cap'n! I think you'll like the next two segments that I have planned. Stay tuned.

[@fyng.1582]

"For those complaining about the brute fighter, the bloodhunter does a lot more damage" - the bloodhunter both pays for it, and doesn't have a 3rd attack (except as a sometimes ability on the Mutant/Ghostslayer). And if you want to say "Well, but for those times it DOES get a 3rd attack" - sometimes fighter has THREE more attacks, for action surge. Granted, the brute fighter doesn't also get Blood Maledicts, so, that's not exactly apples to apples. Overall playing this class in games, it has never seemed to run away damage wise. It seems to sit square in the middle of the pack, above rogue/monk/ranger, below fighter/paladin/barbarian.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks for posting your experience Fyn. I think this is a really great custom class that people should take for a spin.

[@oplankas]

Amazing vid! keep up the good work man!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Alexsandre!

[@oplankas]

Titan Bear Gaming

[@dippybanjo1914]

I’m infinitely happy that this video (and channel) came up in my suggested! Take your well earned sub you beautiful people!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Aw thanks William! Folks have been telling us that we're surfing the suggested videos right now. I'm thrilled that you've joined the fam! Welcome!

[@peterwhite6415]

Somebody problaby already said it but ill leave this here: - If your making a Bloodhunter and you have HIGH CON, take the HP averages (its 6+con, its alot more worth it then rolling). - TOUGH ends up becoming an Necessary feat if your gonna Dual-wield Crimson Rites or use Polearms. The +2 HP per lvl ends up covering your max hp loss so your not as squishy. - Wis can be a Dump stat for Mutant if you have really poor rolls... however keep in mind the nastiest Save spells and Abilitys in the game are WIS Saves, and i dont mean in terms of Damage, jsut look at Dominate Person or Hold Monster and youll know what i mean.

[@TheMonyarm]

I've got a hexblade pact of the blade warlock that plans on multiclassing into Blood Hunter in the campaign i'm running.

[@ComradeCrab93]

The whole "imbibing a toxic formula that changes your biology" really reminds me of the Grey Wardens from Dragonage.

[@TitanGamingTV]

DA makes for some strong inspirational juice in the modern age. Hyoog game for nerddom.

[@chickensoundedmexicanyt9732]

Im soon to start my 3rd dnd campaign with my friends and im thinking about picking blood hunter as my hero

[@thehulkster9434]

On the comparison to the brute: While the crimson rite scales faster than the brute, I think it's far more balanced. 1) It needs to be activated rather than being automatic. 2) You sacrifice your hit points for it, and can't get them back easily. 3) You max out at 2 attacks rather than 4. 4) On a related note, bonus action attacks from 2 weapon fighting or polearm master will require a separate activation of the rite, sacrificing double hit points and two rounds worth of bonus actions. It does have the advantage of being magical and elemental, but overall, it has a lot of limiting factors on it. Also, I'd say that this is more influenced by the ranger than by the fighter. They have similar martial progression to the ranger, only getting medium armor, capping out at 2 attacks, and having a slightly more limited selection of fighting styles. They also both share the hunter/tracker element which focuses on specific enemies that they are exceptionally good at tracking. Overall, I like this class. Next time I play with a gm who allows for homebrew classes, I'll probably consider using it. My only real issue with it is that they don't have stealth as a skill option, which seems a bit odd for something classified as a hunter, but that is easily corrected with the right choice of background.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Great commentary hulkster. You're right in the Ranger parallels. Also especially on the stealth statement, now that you mention it.

[@thegamemattster]

The backgrounds that contain stealth are perfect for this. They fuel part of the backstory as criminals or haunted ones etc and that the blood hunter ritual is what saved/ gave them a way to redeem themself. It's a fantastic angle or hook to a character. I think the other reason is the blood hunter is suppose to be the known tracker. Using the advantage and knowledge AND tracking them kinda gives you an edge where stealth isn't even needed . You would know so much about the tracked creature and give the presence of the hunter. The fiends and what not fear them in my games and their arrogance in the track is testament to their skills.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thats a great take on it, Mattster. Strong thematic statements.

[@thegamemattster]

Titan Bear Gaming thanks! You killed it in this video. Earned a sub. Really good job.

[@cryomancer20x68]

This is a great break down - thanks for this!

[@TitanGamingTV]

You're welcome! I'm glad you found it useful.

[@Blandco]

Interesting stuff. I don't generally go for custom classes but I will see how this works out.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Community feedback has generally been positive for this one. Welcome to the party Blandco!

[@pawthorne7089]

Godamnit Taliesin, always gotta be the special snowflake with the special class!

[@TitanGamingTV]

I think he feels real strong about this one :) You know he's vibing with it when he described the peacock FACE tattoo, haha.

[@bene5594]

Honestly while sure it is a "special snowflake", It is one of the more colourful characters at the moment(in visual/character). I feel like this is more in his allyway than Percy ever was.

[@i-am-your-conscience]

I think he will really shine in this campaign.. You also have to know his history, he has strong ties to the "World of Darkness" and V:TM systems.. (Because of that I am sure he also helped a bit designing).. Also a faible for esoteric and occult stuff. If someone can play this and because he is the first one doing it in front of so much people, than he.. Thats a class that feel like his roleplaying roots :) Altough I think too much classes are bad, I think this is one, that was somehow missing.. A lot of people like the way Geralt in The Witcher does his stuff.. Want to play like this.. Now they can.. Just a bit tweaking by the officials and you could include that.. Maybe also take some parts of the Mystic from Unearthed Arcana..

[@TitanGamingTV]

The first thing I give this class is points for its thematic element. Very well defined, seems at home in 5e.

[@TitanGamingTV]

I feel that way too Ben. Welcome to the party!

[@magecraft2]

Got to love wandering on the interweb :) great vid so subscribed and will look at your content :)

[@TitanGamingTV]

Aw thanks Robert! Take a look and leave me some feedback, I do these videos for you guys. Welcome to the fam!

[@drowjack]

I like the class mechanics the only thing I change would be some similarities to Ranger but the blood magic thing I’m down for it

[@TitanGamingTV]

I think if we're all honest with ourselves, we're all down for some blood magic. Haha. Welcome to the party Andrew Drow!

[@nickvick4857]

Working on Blood hunter and Earth Genasi, very interesting

[@Warmatt911]

Really like your series of going through subclasses and classes. Curious if you are would go through Matthew Mercer's subclasses for Fighter and Bard. The Gunslinger and The Maestro. At some point in the future?

[@TitanGamingTV]

Both are on my list :) I think Matt Mercer produces some excellent custom class options, he makes my job easy.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Welcome to the family Frozenknight!

[@stressed_dm]

There’s also Order of the Lycan in a separate pdf

[@TitanGamingTV]

Sure is -- video on that order coming out early this week! Stay tuned.

[@jonhidy8105]

Question about the curses. Pretty new to D&D so I’m not 100% on what constitutes actions/reactions. When exactly can you cast the curses as well as amplify them? Also, when you cast your crimson rite do you take damage and the max hp penalty simultaneously? For example Lvl 2 22hp. Cast crimson rite, take 2 damage and -2 to max hp = 20/20 hp?

[@AdamOwczarek]

Nice breakdown. I would like to add that there is a 4th archetype; Order of the Lycan.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Snap, Yknow I did know that... I wonder why it’s not in the file I downloaded... back to dmsguild.com to find it!! Thanks Adam!

[@kagelobo7444]

its cuz he released it after the core class

[@TitanGamingTV]

I’ll have to add it to the video list. Thanks guys!

[@TheSkyrider27]

Gives me a Witcher vibe.

[@kagelobo7444]

thats what it was mostly based off

[@NarcolepticNerdProductions]

Amazing video and quality

[@kieslodarkmoon1510]

This is an Extremely FUN class!

[@TitanGamingTV]

It certainly seems that way! A lot of community love for it. Welcome to the party Kieslo!

[@kieslodarkmoon1510]

Titan Bear Gaming I've played the class once and it was very fun. Being a Dex based fighter dual wielding Scimitar's was a very high damage output. The loss of health wasn't a bad loss, if health is an issue. There are feats to increase you HP so you dont have to worry to much about the cost of using both Rites.

[@misterkewlaid5420]

There are actually 4 archetypes for this class. Matt Mercer wrote the order of the lycan too. It functions like a half barbarian. I'd really appreciate your views on it.

[@TitanGamingTV]

I'll put that one out early next week Mister KewlAid -- been a lot of asking for it. I brainfarted when I was doing this set, the fact that it wasnt on the same document had me completely forget there was a 4th. Look forward to it!

[@misterkewlaid5420]

Thanks! I had a blood hunter order of the ghostslayer who ended up getting infected with lycanthropy in a campaign; Long story short, he decided to utilize the beast, and he became an order of the Lycan. I pretty much ignored the order of the lycan until I had it thrust upon me, but it ended up making for some interesting roleplaying.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Surprise lycanthropy makes any situation interesting :)

[@michaelautrey6641]

im starting to think maybe constitution might be better for primary stat.

[@TitanGamingTV]

It's your prerogative to play it that way, Mr Michael. Con certainly goes a long way for this class. Welcome to the party!

[@midshipman8654]

The class also seems to take a lot of inspiration from Bloodborne’s hunters. Given that they become the beasts that they hope to slay and the fact that they damage themselves and use blood in different ways to do things.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Distinct similarities! It's a great class option -- try it out if you haven't! Welcome to the party Jackson!

[@midshipman8654]

Titan Bear Gaming T Thanks for the response and encouragement! Interaction like this is great in an upcoming channel!

[@G92P]

I don't know about bloodborn hunters but I am sure that this class is a witcher inspired class.! We all know Matt have a soft spot for "the witcher" games and as he mentioned in the first episode of the new campaign he even asked Cd projekt red 's permission to include music from the witcher games into the new campaign.. the mutagen path is exactly what witcher' s are all about (in the games at least). I think it's an awesome addition to the 5e and I hope many players will have fun playing as a blood hunter.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Its had some excellent community feedback so far. And Taliesin's Blood Hunter on Critical Role has been hugely impactful in the game so far. I'm watching fastidiously to see if Mercer makes any balance tweaks.

[@Bluewolf1118]

Thank you for doing this review! I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the Gunslinger too :D (unless you already have... *rushes to check the rest of the channel*)

[@TitanGamingTV]

Not quite yet, but its on the list! Order of the Lycan is coming next -- gotta complete the set! Welcome to the family Jeff C!

[@Kersakofu]

So I know what necrotic damage does, and it seems pretty powerful if someone is trying to heal a person in a fight. But what does thunder and psychic damage do? It seems like it is tied to spells rather than having a definition. As the crimson rite damage.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Hi Kersakofu! Thematically speaking, necrotic damage is intended to be an assault on the life force of a creature or living thing. Some games make a mechanical distinction in necrotic damage preventing healing -- 5e just uses it as a type of damage dealt, like thunder or psychic. Thematically speaking, Thunder damage can be thought of as a similar force to what you might feel standing next to a concert-hall speaker, VERY strong bone-jarring vibrations and deafening sounds. Psychic damage can be thought of as an assault on the mind, whether it be a terrible headache, or an assault on the victims focus, or presence of mind, or full on removing the victims consciousness temporarily. But like most things in 5e, these types are open to interpretation! What does it seem like to you?

[@Kersakofu]

Oh wow that's a fast response. I'm kinda newish and just went from playing with a 3.5e party to playing with a 5e party so I wasn't used to it being so loose to interpretation. I'm more used to "This does X amount of damage and has Y effect." I suppose I'll ask my GM if he thinks it should just be another damage type or have an additional effect. As for my own opinion, I think it's cool if damage types have an effect. The more damage, the more likely an effect happens. Etc. slashing making your character bleed, or bludgeoning giving a stunning option. So I'd think for myself, thunder or 'sonic' damage would be like a concussive blast at enough damage, maybe a reflex save so they aren't stumbling or knocked over completely. Psychic damage would effect spellcasters mainly. Maybe have them have trouble concentrating on spells, or effecting their intelligence score temporarily? Having the 3.5e mindset makes it hard to balance for 5e tbh lol.

[@TitanGamingTV]

It sure does -- a lot of the concept port over just fine, albeit have been simplified for 5e, and the numbers are different in certain ways. The 5e PHB does a great job clarifying how the damage type rules are defined, so check those out there. Cheers!

[@Yorhunterman2]

Where can get this information on blood hunter

[@benjorgensen9133]

So if you have two rites, do you deal both damage types or one of the damage types?

[@davidvo3762]

what do you mean by dragon difficulty? what's the ranking you're using?

[@bruize]

Will you be covering the Order of the Lycan option that Matt Mercer released later over on the GM's Guild?

[@TitanGamingTV]

Sure will Bruize, look for it early this week! Welcome to the party!

[@markredblue]

The class' origins share some striking resemblance with Dragon Age: Origins' Grey Wardens.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Agreed. Its pretty easy to trace Mercer's video game interests :)

[@stickytim64]

Yeah the mutant is straight up Witcher, the entire class screams grey wardens and the werewolf gets a fear roar at 18 like in Skyrim. Like a great mix of fantasy aspects.

[@Eunostos]

It seems fine balance and mechanics wise, but it also seems like a giant stretch to make this fit into most settings unless a campaign was made explicitly with these themes in mind.

[@TitanGamingTV]

The author tried to attach it to a few known bloody/neutral deities from different settings, to try to help make that gap more closeable at a table.

[@thesarcasticmagician9092]

Bloodhunter was the first ever class i played in dnd when i started two years back

[@TitanGamingTV]

That's excellent, Dragan! Hell of an introduction :)

[@revan3841]

Just got my half orc blood hunter to level 7. Pretty darn strong.

[@TheTimberwolf44]

I am just about to create a blood hunter character for my first campaign in a long time, and I was wondering if you would do a video for the Order of the Lycan add on that Matt Mercer came out with?

[@TitanGamingTV]

I'm way ahead of you! It's scheduled for release in the morning. Welcome to the fam Timberwolf!

[@TheTimberwolf44]

Thank you! I'm happy to be here and happy to be getting back into D&D

[@draxthemsklonst]

TheTimberwolf44 Order of the Lycan with Rite of Storm: goo.gl/images/Qwwqf1

[@TitanGamingTV]

Suuper thematic!

[@bigooof2499]

I always thought it was more of a reference to the hunters in Bloodborne. You hunt beasts, otherworldly creatures, and other humans. You use blood.

[@joshuareinaas5261]

I've been playing a Tiefling Bloodhunter. Tonight will be our 5th session and I've yet to drop out any of the actual Bloodhunter powers. I'm keeping those tucked away until I need them. Going to freak out the rest of the party.

[@justinkitchur1443]

I am a 1st lvl BH (thanks so this video) and I was wondering, when I get to 4th lvl, I give up 4HP and MAX HP, but still only do 1d4 damage? is that correct? so it doesn't lvl up until 5th, then I will give up 5HP and then 1d6? I just want to make sure I am getting that right. Just wondering why my HP loss goes up but no extra dmg.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Your understanding is perfectly correct -- but I see the confusion, quite justified. The damage scaling very likely comes from the damage power curve in the game, which follows a 5-level bracketing. Classes in 5e see a big power boost at 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th levels. I'd guess Mercer's use of character level scaling for the hit point sacrifice is that its a 'close enough' approximation to that damage scaling, while still keeping to other class's established precedents of using character level. You get awkward things like 4th level, where you feel a bit gypped, but if he just made the scaling equal to the max face on the rite damage die you'd be saccing a LOT of hit points at the lower end of each 5-level bracket, if you follow me. He COULD have made it such that you sac HP relative to the Min of Character level or Damage die so you never feel gypped, but that unnecessary complexity would confuse people for sure. Also factor into your considerations that a Dual-Wielding BH suffers the cost two times. Holler back, Joe. Thrilled to hear you're playing one :)

[@justinkitchur1443]

Titan Bear Gaming I'm going BH 1/ paladin 1. Wanting to make a undead/fiend hunter type. Took protection Aasimar. Wish the crimson rite did radiant damage but totally get why it doesn't.

[@TitanGamingTV]

You probably already looked, but the Ghostslayer is thematically appropriate for what you've described, and it gets Radiant rite damage at 3. Take a look at the video if you haven't, tell me what you think. Ghostslayer is my favorite personally, Supernal Surge at level 11 is world-changing, especially if your DM lets the spectral effect give you some defensive bonuses.

[@justinkitchur1443]

Titan Bear Gaming oh I will be the second my son is down for a nap. I read it and almost didn't look at the other ones as it was so perfect.

[@xandermoran7224]

I have two questions and some experience to share. Experience: I created a dragonborn bloodhunter class that has extremely good synergy. Since dragonborn have the ability to deal magic damage with an elemental breath in the same range as your rite, it makes for useful damage with variety. This class has worked especially well in dungeons and small fighting areas. I also noticed that rogues quickly became useful allies. A problem that I come acrossed a lot is that i consistantly take too much damage. Every session I have had to make constitution saving throws for my life. Have a back up ready. Question: What advantages would this class have doing alchemy? Either healthwise or empowering wise, or if anybody has some advice. Second question: Is there any way to build this class to revive a unit from death? This would be very helpful storywise.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Have you picked your archetype yet? Be sure to check out those videos too -- you could go Order of the Profane Soul with a Celestial Patron, since it gives Revivify later in the game. Otherwise if you want to revive people earlier in the game, get good with Healers Kits (good since youve got a strong wisdom score) or consider multi-classing. Also consider Order of the Mutant for a possible take on Alchemy with this character.

[@johnwendel702]

What happened to order of the Lycan?

[@TitanGamingTV]

Video on it coming out early this week. Stay tuned!

[@johnwendel702]

Titan Bear Gaming Awesome! I just wanted to make sure it wasn't cut from the official content on D&D beyond, I know it's a big draw for some people and definitely an awesome concept. It would be a shame if it were unavailable

[@TheNoble117]

John Wendel order of the lycan is its own separate thing on Dms guild from the blood hunter , basically made it an extra archetype which is weird .

[@thomasfriedman5924]

Hey, awesome video, just wanted to correct a small mistake you made where you said the fighter has the same armor proficiencies as the Bloodhunter whil the fighter is actually proficient in Heavy armor and the Bloodhunter isn't.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Thomas, and thanks for the correction, you're quite right. I think its better to handle corrections in comments anyway, keeps the video cleaner. Welcome!

[@kenneth6989]

hi I knew about this class for some time but it's always good to look it up again. I am new but I want to do this class for my first go

[@TitanGamingTV]

As you can see from the comments, there are a lot of folks who have played it (many as their first) and had a great time. Give it a go!

[@brettonalwood4173]

Sounds alot like the Hunters from Bloodborne as far as the pitch.

[@TitanGamingTV]

It definitely channels the gothic romance-era vibe.

[@brunacaroline2583]

Could you talk about the Order of the Lycan?

[@TitanGamingTV]

Look for it early this week! It's almost here! Welcome to the party Bruna!

[@sacv27]

Seconded, I'm about to play one of these. I'm a semi-advanced player so I've got it all worked out, but I like getting input from various sources to see what kind of ideas they have about a class that might fuel my imagination. Great content btw, I've subscribed.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Sacv27, nice to hear it! Welcome!

[@RealUnimportant]

For full compatibility, it's best to just refer to the new campaign as The Second Campaign, rather than Season Two - there's differing opinions on various sites as to whether the first campaign was broken into multiple seasons.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Fortunately I think if you make any attempt whatsoever to describe it, the Critter community knows what youre talking about these days, haha. The enthusiasm is legendary. "Hey have you watc-- OH WHAT THE NEXT CRITICAL ROLE OF COURSE". Lol.

[@theDMLair]

If they are all new characters and a different plot (and I believe they are -- haven't watched it) then, you're right, it wouldn't technically be a "session." Sessions are a continuation of a storyline and the characters involved in the previous session.

[@acm4bass]

Reddit and Matt have used Season 2 as a descriptor.

[@drakkonusfrostburn4038]

Had to share this on the Critter Facebook page. Great job. Plus I subbed. Please do the Gunslinger and Maestro!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Aw thanks Drakkonus! Do you have a link to the Critter Facebook Page? I don't think we're on it quite yet, and im too critter not to be, lol.

[@drakkonusfrostburn4038]

Critical Role Fan Club on facebook facebook.com/search/top/?q=critical%20role%20fan%20club

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks again Drakkonus!

[@Built2Fast]

A lot of tweaks have gone into the Blood Hunter class. Its current version is v.8. Honestly it is not that complicated to play as a Blood Hunter. It's laid out very well and there are tons of options, and as a gamer, I love options. I have been pushing Blood Hunter for a long time now. A lot of people get all pissy about the class, because it can do almost everything, and it is awesome! Order of Profane Soul is my path.

[@TitanGamingTV]

I'm glad you like it Built2Fast! I'm certainly happy to see it at the Critical Role table this season. Welcome to the party!

[@giarnovanzeijl399]

Can I look up the pages somewhere?

[@TitanGamingTV]

Sure can -- its pay-what-you-want on dmsguild.com!

[@shogunender8752]

I really am having trouble trying to make a blood hunter on a character sheet I'm a beginner so I'm not knowledgeable of DnD but I have been trying to use dnd beyond since people say that is what you can use. I want to make a drow blood hunter but it is not in any preset character making sheet type thing plz help thanks

[@samtrue3]

Can you do psion unearthed arcana

[@TitanGamingTV]

Yes, I think I'll prioritize doing that one. Multiple viewers have requested it, and I can understand why.

[@samtrue3]

From what I saw can we make a new creature rating being tarasque

[@Babidi111]

does this class make a good tank? I am heavily leaning toward playing this class for an upcoming curse of strahd camaign and it's looking like I may be the only melee character.

[@TitanGamingTV]

You won't be a traditional 'tank', thats for sure. Your AC and HP stats wont be high enough to 'confidently' wade into battle looking to soak up blows. That said, you're still a very capable melee fighter -- you'll regularly be dropping stuff in a round or two just by engaging the fight.

[@Babidi111]

awesome. thanks for the reply.

[@daledowse5727]

For a future homebrew class to review, may I suggest the Tarocchi?

[@TitanGamingTV]

What is the Tarocchi, Dale? I havent heard of it!

[@daledowse5727]

Titan Bear Gaming it's a homebrew class I came across a while ago that I really like. If you like, I can send the pdf file for it to you.

[@daledowse5727]

Well, I would if I had a single clue how to find the youtube PMs on mobile

[@berzerkgrizzly404]

Oh boy can’t wait to play a hunter from Bloodborne

[@TitanGamingTV]

It is pretty reminiscent! Welcome to the party, Berzerk Grizzly!

[@ruis1982]

What a great resource for a DM to arbitrate a reputable home brew class. I run my own type of adventure leauge style multi campaign universe and my newest DM was struggling to let a player play a blood hunter. This should help tremendously. I have since subscribed to TitanBear!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Nate! Welcome to the party!

[@hikaru975]

Starts talking about the class at 5:30

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Rev -- starting with the next video I'll include a timestamp TOC for folks who just want to jump to specific content.

[@PartridgeQuill]

Very nice video! I love that you guys are reviewing quality products outside of Wizards' mainstream printed media.

[@TitanGamingTV]

The next couple videos are on other third party printings, of various origins. If it seems useful to Players or DMs, I'll cover it.

[@jebron319]

This actually makes whips viable

[@TitanGamingTV]

Some STRONG feelings of Underworld (2003), that vampire slavedriver with the silvered whips who gets full on MAULED in the final sequence. Lol. Am I alone?

[@jebron319]

Titan Bear Gaming I was thing Trevor Belmont specifically from the Netflix show

[@TitanGamingTV]

Adding that to my watch list now...

[@Babidi111]

do they have shield proficiency?

[@Babidi111]

nvm, was informed they do

[@TitanGamingTV]

Good good.

[@craigvishy8734]

Great breakdown!

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Craig!

[@frankdb9262]

So glad to see this channel growing! (Can I get some of that MiracleGrow? hahaha)

[@TitanGamingTV]

Thanks Spoil Sport! We owe a lot to the Critter community for this week's growth -- Critters are a fierce bunch on the internet, even moreso at Cons. #critterforlife

[@aml0797]

Order of the Lycan + Shifter Race Now you’re a werewolf werewolf :3

[@TitanGamingTV]

Yo dawg, I heard you like to werewolf! Welcome to the party Nightingale!

[@CaliBassin]

I would like to do a Dragonborn Blood Hunter. Would this be possible?

[@amberblackwell7687]

He is our god, long may he reign. Rest in peace Mollymauk...

[@trident042]

While I appreciate that Mercer is doing good work with creating nonstandard content for some peoples' tables to use, a small part of me wishes they hadn't used it in the new campaign. I was an hour into getting a friend of mine to be a regular watcher of the show live with me for the first time, and when he saw "Blood Hunter" on screen he texted me "Boo fake class" and is kinda salty about it. Some people like it when all the content is purely official. (He did not watch season one, or he might have had similar reservations about gunslinging.)

[@TitanGamingTV]

Yknow, folks get sensitive about stuff, and its their right to do so. You can't live your life worrying about the armchair-critic audience. You love the show your way, your friend will come around.

[@quintoncraig9299]

I do have to say that this class sound a lot like the Hunter from Bloodborne as a character class.

[@socksman669]

Jeralt, ah yes I remember them always say jer-alt when they said his name every few lines of dialog.

[@patrickbuckley7259]

I really feel like the Blood Hunter is to the Warlock, what the Paladin is to the Cleric, and the Ranger is to the Druid.

[@notorious.scoundrel]

ORDER OF THE FUCKING LYCAN, LET'S GET IT.

[@TitanGamingTV]

Git it, son.

[@VideosFloogHD]

Rest in peace Molly

[@sir.johnbalman9877]

I keep thinking of Blood hunter / Barbarian multi-class....

[@TitanGamingTV]

Check out the synergy with the Order of the Lycan archetype!

[@catfeldman3614]

way of the cobalt soul?

[@theoneandonlymichaelmccormick]

Cat Feldman I prefer the way of the Pumat Sol.

[@MementoMorrigan]

The One and Only Michael McCormick Respectfully... me too