If you’re playing a Warlock in Dungeons & Dragons 5e, chances are you’ve heard of Eldritch Blast. This iconic cantrip is a staple in almost every Warlock build, offering reliable damage, range, and customization through invocations. But what makes it so powerful, and how can you maximize its effectiveness in both D&D 5e and games like Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Eldritch -Blast, including its mechanics, strategies, and best builds. Whether you’re a new Warlock player or a seasoned adventurer, this deep dive will ensure you’re getting the most out of your eldritch energy-fueled attacks.
What Is Eldritch- Blast in D&D 5e?
Eldritch- Blast is a cantrip, meaning it’s a spell that can be cast at will without consuming a spell slot. It is exclusive to the Warlock class, making it a defining feature of the class’s identity in D&D 5e.
Eldritch Blast 5e – Key Features:
✔ Spell Level: Cantrip (always available)
✔ Casting Time: 1 Action
✔ Range: 120 feet
✔ Components: Verbal and Somatic
✔ Damage Type: Force
✔ Scaling: Gains additional beams at higher levels
Unlike most cantrips that scale by increasing damage dice, Eldritch- Blast scales by adding more beams as your Warlock levels up. This gives it incredible versatility, allowing players to spread out attacks or focus them on a single target.
| Warlock Level | Number of Beams |
|---|---|
| 1-4 | 1 Beam |
| 5-10 | 2 Beams |
| 11-16 | 3 Beams |
| 17+ | 4 Beams |
Since each beam is rolled separately, you have multiple chances to hit, making it one of the most consistent damage spells in the game.
Why Is Eldritch Blast So Popular?
1. Best Damage Cantrip in D&D 5e
Unlike spells that deal elemental damage (fire, lightning, etc.), Eldritch- Blast deals force damage—one of the least resisted damage types in D&D 5e. That means fewer enemies will shrug off your attacks, making it more reliable than Fire Bolt or Ray of Frost.
2. Longest Range for a Cantrip
With a 120-foot range, Eldritch -Blast lets you stay safe while dealing damage. This is especially useful for squishy Warlocks who don’t want to be on the front lines.
3. Perfect Synergy with Warlock Invocations
What makes Eldritch- Blast truly powerful is how it interacts with Eldritch Invocations—special enhancements Warlocks get that modify the spell.
Here are the best Eldritch Invocations to take your Eldritch- Blast build to the next level:
- Agonizing Blast – Add your Charisma modifier to damage (a must-have).
- Repelling Blast – Push enemies 10 feet away per beam (great for battlefield control).
- Grasp of Hadar – Pull enemies 10 feet toward you (pairs well with melee builds).
- Lance of Lethargy – Reduce target’s movement by 10 feet, slowing them down.
By stacking these invocations, you can create a deadly ranged powerhouse or a battlefield manipulator.
How to Build the Best Eldritch Blast Warlock
If you want to build the strongest Eldritch- Blast-focused Warlock, follow these tips:
1. Choose the Right Warlock Subclass
Your Patron choice affects your playstyle, but if you want to maximize Eldritch- Blast, consider:
- Fiend Warlock – Bonus temporary HP and extra damage boosts.
- Hexblade Warlock – Great for melee hybrid builds, but also boosts ranged damage.
2. Maximize Your Charisma
Since Eldritch- Blast uses Charisma for attack rolls and damage (with Agonizing Blast), increasing it should be your top priority.
3. Use Hex for Bonus Damage
The Hex spell adds 1d6 necrotic damage to each beam of Eldritch- Blast, turning it into a serious damage dealer.
Eldritch- Blast in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)
In Baldur’s Gate 3, Eldritch- Blast works similarly to D&D 5e, with some slight modifications for the video game format.
How to Optimize Eldritch- Blast in BG3:
✔ Take Agonizing Blast ASAP – Adds Charisma modifier to each beam.
✔ Use Hex for Bonus Damage – It stacks just like in 5e.
✔ Position Yourself Well – Since BG3 uses a tactical camera, take advantage of high ground for attack bonuses.
This makes BG3 Eldritch- Blast builds just as deadly and versatile as their tabletop counterpart!
Common Mistakes When Using Eldritch Blast
Despite being one of the best damage cantrips, many players make mistakes when using it. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
❌ Forgetting to use Eldritch Invocations – Not taking Agonizing Blast significantly lowers damage.
❌ Wasting Beams on Overkill – Since each beam is separate, spread them strategically across multiple enemies if needed.
❌ Ignoring Battlefield Positioning – Repelling Blast and Grasp of Hadar are wasted if you’re not using terrain effectively.
Avoiding these mistakes will greatly increase your effectiveness as a Warlock in D&D 5e or BG3.
Conclusion
Eldritch- Blast is, without a doubt, the best Warlock cantrip in D&D 5e and Baldur’s Gate 3. It offers incredible versatility, range, and customization, making it a must-have for any Warlock build.
By combining it with Eldritch Invocations, maximizing Charisma, and using proper strategies, you can turn Eldritch -Blast into a devastating weapon on the battlefield. Whether you’re playing tabletop D&D 5e or exploring BG3, mastering this cantrip will make your Warlock feel truly powerful.
(FAQs)
1. How does Eldritch- Blast scale in D&D 5e?
Eldritch- Blast gains additional beams at levels 5, 11, and 17, allowing multiple attack rolls for higher damage potential.
2. What are the best Eldritch Invocations for Eldritch- Blast?
The best invocations are Agonizing Blast (extra damage), Repelling Blast (knockback), and Grasp of Hadar (pull enemies in).
3. Can you twin Eldritch- Blast with Sorcerer’s Metamagic?
No, because Eldritch- Blast targets multiple creatures separately, it doesn’t qualify for Twinned Spell.
4. Is Eldritch- Blast better than Fire Bolt?
Yes! Eldritch- Blast has multiple beams, longer range, and better synergy with Warlock abilities, making it stronger than Fire Bolt.
5. How does Eldritch- Blast work in Baldur’s Gate 3?
It functions similarly to D&D 5e, but BG3 mechanics allow for high-ground bonuses and extra tactical play.
